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Teenager set to become first millennial saint under Pope Leo XIV

WorldView · Brenda Socky · June 14, 2025
Teenager set to become first millennial saint under Pope Leo XIV
Fifteen-year-old Carlo Acutis will become the Catholic Church's first millennial saint. Vatican Pool/Getty Images
In Summary

The 15-year-old, who died of leukemia in 2006, is set to become the Catholic Church’s first millennial saint.

Carlo Acutis, a young Italian hailed for using his tech skills to promote the Catholic faith, will officially be declared a saint on September 7, according to an announcement from Pope Leo XIV.

The 15-year-old, who died of leukemia in 2006, is set to become the Catholic Church’s first millennial saint.

His canonization will take place during a public ceremony at St. Peter’s Square, which is expected to draw thousands of young people from around the world.

Known for his devotion and digital evangelism, Acutis created a website chronicling Eucharistic miracles, gaining admiration within the Church for combining faith with modern technology.

The Vatican confirmed on Friday that Pope Leo, following consultations with cardinals, will also canonize another youthful figure Pier Giorgio Frassati, who passed away in 1925 at the age of 24.

Acutis’ sainthood was initially scheduled for April 27 but was delayed due to the passing of Pope Francis.

The upcoming September event marks Pope Leo XIV’s first canonization ceremony since becoming the first American elected to the papacy.

Often referred to as “God’s influencer,” Carlo Acutis has gained significant admiration among young Catholics and others around the world.

The British-born Italian teen, known for his love of video games, is frequently portrayed in casual clothing jeans and sneakers making him a relatable and modern figure for today’s youth.

His upcoming canonization comes at a time when surveys in both the United States and United Kingdom point to growing interest in Catholicism among members of Generation Z.

To be recognized as a saint, the Catholic Church requires candidates to be linked to two confirmed miracles each subjected to thorough scrutiny.

In May, Pope Francis approved a second miracle attributed to Acutis, clearing the final step toward sainthood.

The first, acknowledged in 2020, involved the healing of a Brazilian boy born with a digestive disorder. The boy reportedly recovered after his mother sought Acutis’ intercession through prayer.

The second miracle concerns the reported recovery of a Costa Rican girl who suffered a severe brain injury after a bicycle accident in Florence.

According to her mother, prayers for healing were offered at Acutis’ tomb in Assisi shortly before the girl's condition dramatically improved.

Beyond his online ministry, Acutis also dedicated time to supporting the homeless in Milan, often giving his pocket money to those in need, his mother Antonia Salzano told CNN in an earlier interview.

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