Pilgrims Flock to Assisi for Canonization of Millennial Saint Carlo Acutis
The medieval town of Assisi, long revered for its connection to St. Francis and St. Clare, is now witnessing an extraordinary surge of visitors. Pilgrims are arriving in droves to honor the Catholic Church’s newest saint—Carlo Acutis, a millennial whose relatability and modern-day faith inspire millions. His official canonization is set for April 27.
Unlike the legendary figures of the past, Acutis resonates deeply with today’s youth. “Carlo is like the kids,” said Maria Rosario Riccio, an educator visiting with a youth group from southern Italy. “He’s a saint of our time, showing teens that it’s possible to love Jesus while living a normal life.”
Wearing jeans, a sweatshirt, and sneakers, Acutis’ body lies in the Santuario della Spogliazione, the same church where St. Francis renounced his family’s wealth over 800 years ago. The site has become a magnet for the faithful, with over a million pilgrims visiting in the past year alone. Bishop Domenico Sorrentino calls it a “volcano of grace.”
Born in 1991, Carlo Acutis was a devout yet ordinary Italian teenager. He enjoyed playing video games and spending time with friends, but his deep faith set him apart. He attended Mass daily, prayed the rosary, and spent hours in Eucharistic adoration. Even in his battle with leukemia, he remained steadfast in his faith, accepting his illness with grace and certainty of eternal life.
Despite being raised in a wealthy Milanese family, Acutis rejected material excess. He asked his parents to donate to the poor rather than buy him extra sneakers and preferred teaching catechism over luxury vacations. His humility and generosity drew comparisons to St. Francis himself.
One of Acutis’ most impactful contributions was his digital evangelization. Passionate about the Eucharist, he created an online exhibit documenting miracles worldwide—an initiative now used in thousands of parishes. His deep understanding of technology has led to his recognition as a future patron saint of the internet and social media.
“Just as St. Francis preached in the town squares, Carlo understood that today’s ‘squares’ are online,” said Rev. Enzo Fortunato. “That’s where he spread the Gospel.”
To become a saint, at least two verified miracles must be attributed to intercession. One such miracle involved a Costa Rican student who recovered from a severe bicycle accident after her mother prayed to Acutis. Stories of comfort, peace, and answered prayers continue to pour in from around the world.
For many, Acutis is not just a saint but a guiding light. “He gives us peace,” said Sabina Falcetta, a mother who visits his shrine regularly. “Most importantly, he gives us the certainty that God is a good father.”
Carlo Acutis’ influence reaches beyond the Catholic Church. His kindness, generosity, and devotion serve as a powerful reminder that holiness is achievable in everyday life. “Everyone is born an original, but many die photocopies,” he once said—a message that encourages people of all ages to embrace their unique purpose.
His story continues to inspire young believers like 13-year-old Mario Girardi, who, after learning about Acutis, now attends church regularly. When asked if he aspires to sainthood, he smiled and said, “Well, let’s hope. Never say never.”
As the world prepares for his canonization, one thing is clear—Carlo Acutis is not just a saint of the past, but one for the future.
Source: AP News – Crowds flock to newest Catholic saint in Assisi — a millennial teen whose ordinariness is the draw
