A London-born boy, Carlo Acutis, is set to become the first millennial saint during a ceremony led by Pope Leo on Sunday, marking a significant step in Catholic recognition. His canonization was delayed from April after Pope Francis’s death but is now scheduled, with millions visiting his preserved body in Assisi. A surge of visitors also flocked to Our Lady of Dolours Church in London, where Carlo was baptized in 1991, and a shrine now honors him with a relic of his hair.
- Carlo Acutis to become first millennial saint
- His website documented Catholic miracles
- Postponement of canonisation due to Pope Francis’ death
- Increased pilgrimage to London church and Assisi
- Carlo baptized in London, lived in Milan
- Miracles attributed to Carlo include cancer remission
Born in London and raised in Milan, Carlo Acutis gained fame for creating websites documenting miracles to spread Catholic teachings. He died of leukemia at age 15, but his mother, Antonia Salzano, campaigned for his sainthood, citing miracles attributed to him. Pope Francis recognized two miracles, clearing the way for his canonization, which was postponed after the pope’s death. The ceremony aims to inspire young people and energize faith, with many seeing Carlo as a relatable saint who enjoyed video games and modern life.
- Over a million pilgrims visited Carlo’s body in Assisi since his sainthood was announced.
- Visitors to London’s church now see his baptism site and relics, increasing local interest.
- Pope Francis attributed two miracles to Carlo, including healing a woman’s cancer.
- The canonization emphasizes modern saints who reflect contemporary youth culture.
This event could boost faith among young Catholics and renew interest in sainthood for the digital age.
Carlo Acutis’s journey from London baptism to sainthood demonstrates how modern life and faith intersect, inspiring a new generation.
