Pope Francis Names Carlo Acutis as First Millennial Saint, Championing Technology and Faith

How a teen tech whiz and devout Catholic became the Church’s first millennial saint.

In a historic move, Pope Francis has announced the canonization of Carlo Acutis, a late Italian teenager and self-taught web designer, as the Catholic Church's first millennial saint. The ceremony, set to take place on April 27, 2025, will solidify Carlo’s legacy as a bridge between the spiritual and digital worlds, an embodiment of faith in the modern age.

A Life Devoted to Faith and Technology

Born on May 3, 1991, in London to Italian parents, Carlo Acutis moved to Milan during his childhood. Even as a young boy, Carlo stood out for his devotion to the Catholic faith, attending daily Mass and praying the Rosary regularly. What set him apart, however, was his affinity for technology—a skill he used to evangelize.

Carlo’s most notable contribution was his creation of a website cataloging Eucharistic miracles from around the world. At a time when the internet was still in its infancy, Carlo saw its potential to connect people with the divine. His project aimed to inspire devotion to the Eucharist, which he lovingly referred to as his "highway to heaven."

Beyond his own initiatives, Carlo assisted local Catholic organizations by building and managing their websites. His integration of tech-savviness with spiritual outreach has earned him the unofficial title of "patron saint of the internet."

The Path to Sainthood

Carlo Acutis passed away at the age of 15 in 2006 due to leukemia. Despite his short life, his unwavering faith and selflessness left an indelible mark. His beatification in 2020 came after the Vatican recognized a miracle attributed to his intercession: the healing of a Brazilian boy suffering from a congenital pancreatic disorder.

In 2024, Pope Francis approved a second miracle involving the recovery of a Costa Rican student from severe head trauma after her mother prayed at Carlo's tomb. This second miracle paved the way for his canonization, making Carlo the first saint from the millennial generation.

Canonization Ceremony and Significance

The canonization will occur during the Jubilee of Adolescents, a fitting tribute to a saint who is expected to resonate deeply with younger generations. Pope Francis has consistently highlighted Carlo’s ability to use his talents to bring people closer to God, calling him a model for youth in a world increasingly dominated by technology.

“Carlo Acutis teaches us that true happiness comes from putting God at the center of our lives, even in the midst of modern distractions,” the Pope remarked in a recent address.

A Saint for the Digital Age

Carlo’s sainthood carries profound significance for the Church’s engagement with contemporary culture. As the first millennial saint, Carlo Acutis represents a generation that grew up with the internet. His life serves as a reminder that technology, when used with intention and purpose, can be a powerful tool for good.

Carlo’s recognition also speaks to a broader message: holiness is attainable in every era and through every medium. From the printing press to the internet, the Church has always embraced innovation to spread its message, and Carlo’s story reinforces this legacy.

Legacy and Inspiration

For many, Carlo Acutis is more than just a saint; he is a relatable role model. His life challenges young people to channel their passions and skills toward meaningful endeavors. His devotion to the Eucharist and his innovative spirit inspire Catholics and non-Catholics alike to see faith and technology as complementary rather than conflicting forces.

Carlo Acutis’ canonization marks a milestone in the Catholic Church’s history, celebrating a young life that transformed the intersection of spirituality and modernity. As the world watches his elevation to sainthood, Carlo’s message rings clear: faith, like technology, has the power to connect, inspire, and transcend boundaries.