Influencer deemed holy by the Pope
In a historic ceremony, Pope Leo XIV recently canonized Italian teenager Carlo Acutis as the first saint of the new millennium. The grand mass, held before over 80,000 people in St. Peter's Square, also saw the elevation of another Italian, Pier Giorgio Frassati, who lived a century ago.
The process of beatification and canonization for saints in the Catholic Church follows a complex, multi-stage procedure. For Acutis, the process began no earlier than 50 years after his death, but in his case, it took less than 20 years. This swift progression is a testament to the widespread admiration and devotion that Acutis has garnered since his passing in 2006 at the age of 15.
Two larger-than-life images of Acutis and Frassati hung on the dome of St. Peter's during the ceremony, symbolizing the unity and shared reverence for these two extraordinary individuals. Acutis' parents and two siblings were present at the ceremony, making it the second time a canonization with family has happened.
Among the faithful present were those wearing T-shirts featuring Acutis as Superman, a nod to his nickname, the "cyber-apostle," given by the Vatican due to his promotion of his faith on the internet. Acutis is also referred to as "God's influencer."
The initiatives for the canonization of both Acutis and Frassati were started by Pope Leo's predecessor, Francis. The lives of the candidates for sainthood are thoroughly examined as part of the process, and Acutis' devotion to his faith, as well as his initiatives to create a database of Eucharistic miracles, are well-documented.
Acutis is said to have caused two "miraculous healings" after his death, one in Florence and one in Brazil. The relics of both Acutis and Frassati were brought to the altar after the canonization.
Frassati, on the other hand, is known for his dedication to the poor and marginalized a century ago. His life of selfless service and devotion to his faith have inspired generations, and his canonization serves as a testament to his enduring influence.
The Catholic Church has over 10,000 saints, starting with the Virgin Mary and almost all the apostles. The most recent canonizations, such as Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati, are significant additions to this esteemed group.
This was the first time Pope Leo XIV performed a canonization since he was elected four months ago. There is some criticism regarding the devoutness of Acutis, who came from a wealthy Italian family. However, the widespread admiration and devotion to Acutis, as evidenced by the large crowd that gathered for his canonization, suggest a deep and abiding connection with the faithful.
The relics of Carlo Acutis have also been exhibited in Germany, further spreading his message of faith and devotion. The canonization of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati marks a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church, and their lives continue to inspire and guide countless individuals around the world.
