Carlo Acutis was born in London in 1991 to Italian parents and later grew up in Milan where he demonstrated an unusual depth of faith from an early age. As a child he developed a devotion to the Virgin Mary and prayed the rosary daily while also attending Mass whenever possible. His personality was marked by kindness and cheerfulness which drew people to him naturally. Even at school he showed compassion by defending classmates who were bullied and helping those who struggled.
Alongside his spiritual depth Carlo had a strong interest in technology and computers which was uncommon for someone his age in the 1990s. He quickly mastered programming and web design and envisioned using these skills for spreading knowledge of faith. This combination of spirituality and digital awareness shaped his identity and became the foundation of his enduring legacy. His family and friends saw in him a unique blend of ordinary interests and extraordinary faith.
Carlo’s devotion to the Eucharist
Central to Carlo’s life was his profound love for the Eucharist which he called his highway to heaven. He sought to attend daily Mass whenever possible and spent hours in adoration before the Blessed Sacrament. This devotion defined his spiritual journey and guided his decisions and commitments. It also inspired him to begin one of his greatest contributions to modern Catholicism.
Carlo created a digital catalog of Eucharistic miracles from around the world which he meticulously researched and documented. Using his computer skills he built a website to make these miracles accessible to everyone. His work continues to be displayed internationally and has touched countless lives by reigniting faith in the Eucharist. This project demonstrated that technology when guided by faith can become a powerful tool for evangelisation.
A short life with lasting impact
At the age of fifteen Carlo was diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukemia which progressed rapidly. Despite the suffering he remained calm and joyful accepting his illness with remarkable faith. He offered his pain for the Pope and the Church and encouraged others to grow closer to God. Those who visited him in hospital were struck by his serenity and the way he expressed love even in pain.
Carlo died in 2006 and was buried in Assisi at his request because of his devotion to Saint Francis. After his death testimonies began to emerge of people inspired by his example and prayers answered through his intercession. His tomb soon became a pilgrimage site drawing visitors from all over the world. His witness as a teenager who lived holiness in ordinary circumstances resonated especially with young people.
Beatification and recognition
The cause for Carlo’s canonisation began in 2013 and he was declared Venerable in 2018 by Pope Francis. In 2020 the Pope approved a miracle attributed to Carlo involving the healing of a child in Brazil which cleared the way for his beatification. The ceremony took place in Assisi in October 2020 and was attended by thousands in person and many more online. His incorrupt body was displayed during the celebrations and his beatification attracted international attention.
Carlo became widely known as the first millennial to be beatified and was hailed as a model for young Catholics. His ability to balance everyday interests such as video games and technology with deep faith made him a relatable and inspiring figure. His beatification encouraged many young people to consider faith in new ways. It also highlighted the Church’s recognition of holiness lived within the modern world.
Canonisation in September 2025
On 7 September 2025 Carlo Acutis was canonised in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican City becoming the first officially recognised millennial saint. The canonisation was celebrated by Pope Francis and attended by tens of thousands of pilgrims from around the world. Among the attendees were young people inspired by his life and family members who had witnessed his extraordinary faith. His sainthood marked a historic moment for the Church and for a new generation of believers.
The recognition came after the approval of a second miracle attributed to Carlo’s intercession which completed the process from beatification to canonisation. His canonisation was celebrated alongside that of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati highlighting the witness of young laypeople in the Church. Carlo’s sainthood underscored the possibility of holiness in everyday modern life. It also gave new hope to those who see faith as a guiding light in the digital age.
The ongoing legacy of Carlo Acutis
Today Carlo Acutis is honored as a saint whose influence continues to grow internationally. His exhibitions on Eucharistic miracles are displayed in schools parishes and conferences across continents. He is regarded as a patron for internet users and students reminding the world that technology can be used for good. His life continues to encourage people to integrate faith with their daily lives in practical and authentic ways.
The legacy of Saint Carlo Acutis is one of inspiration and hope for all generations. He has shown that sanctity is not reserved for past centuries but can be lived in the present. His path from a faithful teenager to a canonised saint demonstrates the enduring relevance of holiness. His story continues to guide millions toward deeper faith love and service in the modern world.
