Carlo Acutis was a 15-year-old Italian boy who died in 2006. He was known for his deep Catholic faith and his love of computers. Acutis was born in London in 1991.
His family later moved to Italy. From a young age, he showed a strong interest in the church. He attended Mass every day starting at age seven.
Acutis also had a passion for technology. He taught himself how to code and created websites about his faith. One site documented miracles linked to the Eucharist.
Despite enjoying video games, Acutis encouraged his friends to go to church. He stood up for bullied classmates and helped the poor. His mother, Antonia Salzano, said he was “an ordinary child” who lived the teachings of his faith.
Sainthood delay explained
Acutis died from leukemia in 2006. His body was brought to Assisi, Italy.
It is entombed there along with a wax model of him dressed in jeans and Nike sneakers. Pope Francis initiated Acutis’ canonization process. This would make him the first millennial to become a saint in the Catholic Church.
The canonization was set for April 27 but was delayed due to the Pope’s death. Two miracles have been attributed to Acutis. In one case, a Brazilian boy recovered from an illness after kissing a relic of Acutis.
In another, a woman in Italy healed from a brain injury after her mother prayed at Acutis’ tomb. Many see Acutis as a relatable and inspiring figure. He combined a deep spirituality with a love of modern technology.
His story offers hope and comfort to people in contemporary times. While his official sainthood awaits the new Pope’s declaration, a powerful cult has already grown around him.
