Video-gaming teen set to become first Catholic millennial saint
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ITALY, July 1: Carlo Acutis, an Italian teenager known for his passion for video gaming and digital prowess, is set to become the Catholic Church’s first millennial saint after the Vatican approved his cause for canonization.
Acutis, who passed away from leukemia at the age of 15 in 2006, gained recognition for using his computer skills to promote the Catholic faith, earning him the nickname “God’s influencer.” Despite the typical lengthy process involved in declaring saints, Acutis’ cause progressed swiftly due to his widespread appeal among Catholic youth worldwide.
Often depicted in casual attire of jeans and trainers, Acutis has become a symbol for the Catholic Church’s efforts to connect with younger generations in the digital age. He has garnered popularity among youth groups, who find inspiration in his life story.
The journey to sainthood usually requires two verified miracles attributed to the candidate. In May, Pope Francis recognized a second miracle attributed to Acutis, clearing the path for his canonization. The final step came on Monday when the Vatican announced the pope’s decree to proceed with Acutis’ sainthood, along with 14 others. The official date for his canonization ceremony is yet to be determined but is anticipated to coincide with the Catholic Church’s jubilee year celebrations in 2025.
The canonization ceremony is expected to take place in St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City, presided over by the pope and attended by thousands. This event will formalize Acutis’ status as a saint, allowing parishes and schools worldwide to be named after him and establishing an annual “feast day” in his honor.
Born in London, United Kingdom, in 1991, Acutis was a typical millennial who enjoyed playing video games such as Halo, Super Mario, and Pokémon. Beyond gaming, he also dedicated himself to documenting reported miracles worldwide through a website he established.
Antonia Salzano, Acutis’ mother, described her son as a beacon of hope, emphasizing that holiness is attainable even in the modern world. She shared how he balanced his passion for technology with compassion for the less fortunate, limiting his own gaming time and devoting resources to help the homeless from a young age.
Acutis was beatified and declared “blessed” in 2020 after reports of his intercession leading to the healing of a Brazilian boy with a severe birth defect. The second miracle attributed to him involved the recovery of a girl from Costa Rica who suffered a head injury, reportedly healed after prayers at Acutis’ tomb in Assisi, Italy.
Carlo Acutis’ impending canonization as a saint marks a significant milestone for the Catholic Church, showcasing his impact and legacy that continues to resonate globally among believers and beyond.
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