Pope Francis to Canonize Carlo Acutis as First Millennial Saint in April 2025

Pope Francis has announced the upcoming canonization of Carlo Acutis, making him the first millennial and digital-era saint of the Catholic Church. The historic event will take place on April 27, 2025, during the Jubilee of Adolescents at the Vatican, an occasion that highlights the role of young people in the Church.

Carlo Acutis, who tragically passed away from leukemia at just 15 years old, is remembered for his exceptional talent with technology and his deep devotion to the Catholic faith. Born to Italian parents in London, Acutis became renowned for his work as a web designer, creating websites that cataloged Eucharistic miracles and supported local Catholic organizations. His innovative use of digital platforms has earned him the title of the “patron saint of the internet.”

The canonization of Acutis marks a significant moment for the Church, especially as it seeks to engage younger generations who are increasingly connected to the digital world. During his announcement at the end of his weekly general audience, Pope Francis emphasized how Acutis’s life exemplifies the positive impact technology can have when used to strengthen faith and spread goodwill.

The Vatican will hold the canonization ceremony from April 25 to 27, with the Mass on April 27 drawing thousands of pilgrims. This ceremony will not only celebrate Acutis’s life but also underscore the Church’s commitment to reaching out to modern youth.

Pope Francis, who beatified Carlo Acutis in 2020 in Assisi, shared his admiration for the young man’s life, noting his deep devotion to the Eucharist and his compassionate approach to helping others. Acutis’s body, which was placed on display at the Basilica of St. Francis after his death, has since drawn pilgrims from around the world, reflecting the lasting impact of his legacy.

This canonization follows the approval of a second miracle attributed to Acutis’s intercession earlier this year, which paved the way for his official elevation to sainthood. Carlo Acutis now becomes the youngest contemporary saint to be canonized.

Along with Acutis, Pope Francis also revealed plans to canonize Pier Giorgio Frassati, another young man known for his commitment to service and faith. These announcements reflect the Church’s growing focus on young role models to inspire future generations.

Carlo Acutis’s story resonates deeply with young people, embodying the intersection of faith and technology. His use of the internet to spread love, faith, and hope shows how the digital world can serve as a powerful tool for good. The canonization of Acutis offers young Catholics a modern example of how to live out their faith in today’s digital age.

The announcement has sparked excitement among young Catholic communities worldwide, many of whom see Acutis’s canonization not only as recognition of his life but also as an invitation to actively live their faith in the digital era. April 27, 2025, promises to be a defining moment for the Church, marking the canonization of a saint whose story bridges the sacred and the secular.

As Pope Francis continues to navigate the challenges of modern life, Carlo Acutis’s canonization stands as a testament to the Church’s ability to adapt and engage with contemporary culture, inspiring young believers to follow his example. This milestone is just the beginning of a new era for the Church, where the example of saints like Acutis serves as a beacon of hope and faith for the digital generation.