Local sources from Italy: Il Resto del Carlino, Avvenire.
UK coverage: The Guardian.
The Catholic Church is on the brink of a historic moment as Carlo Acutis, a teenage coder who harnessed the power of the internet to spread Catholic teachings, is slated for canonization by Pope Leo. This landmark event not only marks Acutis as the Church’s first millennial saint but also underscores a strategic pivot aimed at engaging more young people with the faith. Acutis, who passed away in 2006 at the tender age of 15 due to leukemia, has posthumously earned the moniker ‘God’s Influencer’ for his innovative approach to evangelism through technology. The canonization ceremony, eagerly anticipated by followers and admirers from around the globe, will also honor Pier Giorgio Frassati, another beacon of youthful sanctity. The move reflects the Church’s concerted efforts to modernize its image and appeal to a new generation of believers. Born in London and raised in Italy, Acutis’s legacy transcends geographical boundaries, drawing pilgrims worldwide to relics and memorabilia associated with his life. His mother, Antonia Salzano, has been instrumental in promoting her son’s story, emphasizing his deep-rooted faith and charitable endeavors from a young age. In the picturesque city of Forlì, excitement brews as the ‘Friends of Carlo Acutis’ prepare for a live viewing of the canonization at Regina Pacis Parish, home to a cherished relic of Acutis. This event not only celebrates Acutis’s ascent to sainthood but also spotlights the charitable activities organized in his honor, reinforcing his enduring impact on today’s youth. Meanwhile, the ‘Carlo Acutis Effect’ has caught the attention of the Catholic community, as noted in discussions on the rise of young saints and blesseds within the Church. Archbishop Mario Delpini of Milan lauds Acutis as a relatable figure for teenagers, embodying joy and a modern path to holiness that resonates with adolescents. This burgeoning recognition of youthful sanctity includes figures like Saint Dominic Savio and Blessed Laura Vicuña, among others, who lived their faith with remarkable passion and left an indelible mark on the world. As the Catholic Church stands on the cusp of welcoming its first millennial saint, the story of Carlo Acutis offers a compelling narrative of faith, innovation, and the universal quest for spiritual connection in the digital age.
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