What's happened
Carlo Acutis, a 15-year-old who died of leukemia in 2006, will be canonized on April 27, 2025, becoming the Catholic Church's first millennial saint. His life of faith and service has inspired many, drawing millions of pilgrims to his shrine in Assisi, Italy.
What's behind the headline?
Significance of Carlo Acutis' Canonization
- Cultural Impact: Acutis represents a relatable figure for today's youth, bridging the gap between modern life and traditional faith.
- Pilgrimage Trends: His shrine in Assisi has attracted over a million visitors, indicating a resurgence in pilgrimage culture.
- Youth Engagement: The canonization coincides with a jubilee for teens, highlighting the Church's focus on engaging younger generations.
- Miracles and Faith: The recognition of two miracles underscores the Church's ongoing commitment to faith-based healing and intercession.
This canonization will likely inspire further interest in the lives of young saints and their relevance in contemporary society.
What the papers say
According to The Independent, Carlo Acutis' life was marked by a deep commitment to faith and community service, with his canonization Mass set for April 27, 2025. The AP News highlights the unprecedented nature of Acutis becoming the first millennial saint, emphasizing his relatability to modern youth. Both sources note the significant pilgrimage activity to his shrine in Assisi, reflecting a growing interest in his story and the miracles attributed to him. The Rev. Domenico Sorrentino, Assisi's bishop, remarked on the million pilgrims visiting Acutis' shrine, showcasing the impact of his legacy on contemporary faith practices.
How we got here
Carlo Acutis was born on May 3, 1991, in London and grew up in Milan. His canonization process began over a decade ago, gaining momentum under Pope Francis. He was declared 'blessed' in 2020 after two miracles were attributed to him.
Go deeper
- What miracles were attributed to Carlo Acutis?
- How has Carlo's story impacted youth today?
- What is the significance of his canonization?
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