Historic First Canonization: Influential Figure Affectionately Known as 'God's Influencer' to be Honorably Recognized by Pope Leo
In a historic event, Pope Leo XIV will declare Carlo Acutis a saint on Sunday, alongside Pier Giorgio Frassati. Acutis, who earned the nickname "God's Influencer," was a precociously savvy computer whiz before the social media era, reading college-level textbooks on programming and coding as a youngster.
Born in London to an Italian family, Acutis spent his formative years in Milan. His intense religious devotion was evident from childhood, a trait that would later propel him to sainthood. Last year, Francis approved the second miracle needed for Acutis to be made a saint.
Acutis' enormous popularity is the result of a concerted church campaign, pushed strongly by his grief-stricken mother. His story is ever-present, especially here in Assisi, where he was entombed. During Mass this week before the canonization, Acutis' story was a recurring theme.
The Blessed Carlo Acutis Parish and school in Chicago, the first in the United States to take its name from Acutis, is focusing on his life in the lead-up to his canonization on Sunday. Students draw pictures of what they imagine Acutis' cellphone wallpaper to be. The pastor of the parish, Reverend Ed Howe, has been instrumental in spreading Acutis' message.
Acutis' most well-known tech legacy is the website he created about Eucharistic miracles, available in nearly 20 different languages. His love of video games inspired some young Catholics, with one fan mentioning his restraint in playing video games.
Young Catholics have flocked by the millions to Assisi to see Acutis' tomb. Those who can't make it in person can watch the comings and goings on a webcam pointed at his tomb. Acutis is dressed in jeans, Nike sneakers, and a sweatshirt in his tomb, a testament to his humble demeanor.
Acutis was beatified in 2020. His life continues to inspire, with the Catholic school in Pope Leo XIV's hometown teaching fifth graders about Acutis' life using comic books titled "Digital Disciple." Acutis' life story serves as a testament to the power of technology in spreading faith and inspiring generations.
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