St. Carlo Acutis: The Millennial Saint

In a world increasingly driven by technology, Carlo Acutis stands out as a beacon of hope, bridging faith and modernity. Born on May 3, 1991, in London to Italian parents, Carlo lived a life that was as ordinary as it was extraordinary. His short life, ending at the age of 15 due to leukemia, has left a profound impact on the Catholic Church and the world.

A Life of Faith and Technology

Carlo grew up in Milan, Italy, and showed an early love for God. He attended daily Mass, prayed the Rosary, and spent time in Eucharistic adoration. Despite his young age, he had a deep understanding of his faith and lived it with sincerity. Carlo’s parents described him as a boy with a heart of gold, always willing to help others and defend the vulnerable.

What set Carlo apart, however, was his ability to merge his faith with his passion for technology. An avid programmer, Carlo used his skills to create a website cataloging Eucharistic miracles from around the world. His goal was simple: to help others deepen their belief in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. Carlo saw the internet as a tool to evangelize, once stating, “The internet can be used to spread hate and lies, but it can also become a vehicle for truth and beauty.”

A Modern Saint in the Making

Carlo’s life was marked by a deep sense of gratitude and joy. He often said, “Our goal must be the infinite and not the finite. The infinite is our homeland. Heaven has been waiting for us forever.” This heavenly perspective shaped his every action. Even as he battled leukemia, Carlo offered his suffering for the Church and the Pope, never losing his trust in God.

On October 12, 2006, Carlo passed away in Monza, Italy. His body was later exhumed and found to be incorrupt, a testament to his sanctity. Pope Francis beatified Carlo on October 10, 2020, in Assisi, the city of his spiritual hero, St. Francis. Carlo is now referred to as Blessed Carlo Acutis, and his feast day is celebrated on October 12.

Carlo’s Legacy

Carlo Acutis has become an inspiration for people of all ages, particularly the youth. He reminds us that holiness is attainable in the modern world and that technology, when used wisely, can be a force for good. His Eucharistic devotion and commitment to sharing God’s love continue to resonate, proving that sainthood isn’t reserved for the past but is alive and accessible today.

Carlo’s life challenges us to ask ourselves: How can we use our talents, passions, and even technology to glorify God and serve others? In an era of fleeting trends and distractions, Carlo’s enduring message remains clear: “Being always united with Jesus, this is my life program.”

Reflection

Blessed Carlo Acutis exemplifies how ordinary actions, when done with extraordinary love, can lead to sanctity. His life is a call to integrate faith into every aspect of our lives, including the digital world. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, Carlo’s example encourages us to look to the eternal, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary with God’s grace.