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New Saints Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati Honoured in Historic Ceremony
In a momentous occasion, the Catholic Church has canonized two new saints, Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati, marking the first time in four months that a new saint has been named since the election of Pope Leo XIV. The ceremony, held in St. Peter's Square, was attended by over 80,000 people, according to Vatican figures.
Carlo Acutis, an Italian teenager who died from leukemia at the age of 15 in 2006, was praised by Pope Leo XIV as a model of a young Christian who dedicated his life to God. Acutis, who is now known as the "Cyber-Apostle" by the Vatican for his promotion of faith on the internet, was canonized as the first saint of this millennium.
Acutis' relics have been exhibited in various locations, including Assisi, Germany, and even Rome, where they were brought to the altar during the ceremony. A cult has formed around "Santo Carlo," with his body on display in a church in Assisi. Last year, over a million people visited Acutis' display in Assisi.
Believers wore T-shirts depicting Acutis as Superman during the mass, reflecting the admiration and devotion he has garnered. Acutis is said to have caused two "miraculous healings" posthumously, one in Florence and one in Brazil.
Another Italian, Pier Giorgio Frassati, also died young and was elevated to sainthood during the same open-air service. Frassati, known for his dedication to the poor and marginalized a century ago, was praised for his selfless service and commitment to social justice.
The process of beatification and canonization for both Acutis and Frassati took less than 20 years, significantly faster than usual. This was the first canonization since Pope Leo XIV was elected four months ago as the successor to Argentine Pope Francis.
Pope Leo spoke of an "invitation to all of us - especially young people - not to waste our lives, but to direct them upwards and make them a masterpiece." The Catholic Church, with its 1.4 billion believers worldwide, hopes that these "Young Saints" will make the Church more appealing, particularly to young people.
Souvenir shops in Assisi sell memorabilia of both Acutis and Saint Francis, reflecting the continued impact these saints have on the community. Two larger-than-life images of the new saints hung on the dome of St. Peter's, serving as a testament to their significance in the Church.
There is some criticism regarding the authenticity of Acutis' devotion, with some questioning the speed at which he was canonized. However, the Catholic Church views Acutis as having led an exemplary life prior to his death, filled with acts of kindness and dedication to his faith.
The initiation of the canonization process for both Acutis and Frassati goes back to Pope Francis, who recognised the impact these individuals had on the Church and the world. The canonization of these two young saints marks a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church, and serves as an inspiration for believers and non-believers alike.
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