Yes, a significant and final step has been taken towards the canonization of Blessed Carlo Acutis, paving the way for him to become the Catholic Church's first "millennial" saint.
A New Chapter in Sainthood
On Wednesday, May 29, 2024, Pope Francis formally recognized a second miracle attributed to the intercession of Blessed Carlo Acutis. This crucial recognition fulfills the final prerequisite for his elevation to sainthood, marking him as a future saint.
Who is Blessed Carlo Acutis?
Blessed Carlo Acutis was a remarkable Italian teenager, born in 1991. He gained widespread recognition for his profound devotion to the Eucharist and his innovative use of technology to spread the Catholic faith. He created websites to document Eucharistic miracles and Marian apparitions, earning him the moniker "God's influencer." He passed away in 2006 at the age of 15 from leukemia. His life serves as an inspiration for young people globally, demonstrating how modern tools can be used for evangelization.
The Path to Sainthood
The process of becoming a saint in the Catholic Church involves several stages, requiring rigorous investigation and the verification of miracles:
- Servant of God: The initial stage where a diocese investigates the individual's life.
- Venerable: Declared by the Vatican when the person is found to have lived a life of heroic virtue.
- Blessed: Achieved after one miracle is formally recognized (for non-martyrs) through their intercession. Carlo Acutis was beatified in October 2020 after the recognition of his first miracle.
- Saint: The final stage, requiring the recognition of a second miracle (for non-martyrs) after beatification. The Pope then officially canonizes the individual in a formal ceremony.
The recent recognition of a second miracle for Blessed Carlo Acutis signifies that all canonical requirements for his canonization have been met, and he is now set to be officially declared a saint at a future date. This makes him particularly notable as the first "millennial" to reach this esteemed status.
Significance of This Development
The upcoming canonization of Carlo Acutis highlights the Catholic Church's recognition of modern-day sanctity and its effort to connect with younger generations. His story emphasizes that holiness is achievable in contemporary life, even for those who grew up in the digital age. His impending sainthood offers a powerful example of faith lived vibrantly and technologically, making him a relatable figure for many.
