‘God’s Influencer’ Carlo Acutis Made First Millennial Saint 20 Years Later
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Carlo Acutis has been honoured as the first millennial saint by the Catholic Church, two decades after his passing. The ceremony, led by Pope Leo XIV in St. Peter’s Square outside the Vatican on September 7, declared Acutis a Saint alongside Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassatti, who passed away in 1925 at the age of 24. The late teen, nicknamed “God’s influencer,” succumbed to leukemia at just 15 years old in 2006.
Born on May 3, 1991, Carlo Acutis gained recognition as a web designer and a devoted member of the Catholic Church. Despite his young age, he used his technological skills to educate others on Eucharistic miracles. His unique approach to spreading the teachings of the Church made him stand out among his peers. His canonization on September 7 marked a historic moment for the Church as he became the first millennial saint, distinguished by his laid-back attire of a sweatshirt, jeans, and sneakers in contrast to traditional saintly garb.
In a momentous ceremony that drew thousands of spectators, Pope Leo declared, “By the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ … and our own, after matured liberation and with divine assistance frequently implored, and with the council of many of our Brothers, we declare and define blessed Pierre Giorgio Frassati and Carlo Acutis to be Saints.” The Pope’s proclamation signified the veneration of Acutis and Frassati in the entire Church for their exemplary lives and devotion.
Carlo Acutis’ journey to sainthood was marked by two miracles attributed to him posthumously. The late Pope Francis endorsed his canonization in July 2024, after confirming a second miracle credited to Acutis. The first recorded miracle, in 2020, involved the healing of a Brazilian boy following prayers made in Carlo’s name. These miraculous occurrences added to the growing recognition of Acutis’ spiritual influence and dedication to his faith.
Antonia Salzano Acutis, Carlo’s mother, shared insights into her son’s saintly lineage, noting that the family had previously seen two nuns canonized in the 19th and 20th centuries. Carlo’s relatability to young people was highlighted by supporters who described him as a typical teenager with interests in sports and the internet. His ability to connect with his peers through shared hobbies and a desire to spread the gospel resonated with many, fostering a sense of closeness and inspiration towards spiritual fulfilment.
The canonization of Carlo Acutis symbolizes a bridge between traditional values and modern technological advancements within the Catholic Church. His impact as a young influencer transcends generational boundaries, reminding believers of the timeless virtues upheld by saints while adapting to contemporary methods of communication and outreach. As the Church celebrates his sanctity, Carlo’s legacy continues to inspire a new wave of followers dedicated to embodying faith in their daily lives.
Carlo Acutis’ recognition as a saint serves as a testament to the enduring power of spiritual devotion and the transformative influence of a dedicated individual, even in the digital age. His unique approach to evangelism and unwavering commitment to his beliefs have left an indelible mark on the Catholic community, inspiring others to embrace their faith with fervour and authenticity. In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, Carlo Acutis stands as a beacon of light, guiding believers towards a path of righteousness and spiritual fulfilment.
Written by a PEOPLE staff writer on September 7, 2025, the article captures the essence of Carlo Acutis’ remarkable journey from a tech-savvy teenager to the first millennial saint, underscoring his impact on the Catholic Church and the lives of those who continue to be inspired by his legacy.