Saint entombed in Assisi is confirmed as fervent follower of St. Francis, according to the rector

A Teenage Saint for the Digital Age: Blessed Carlo Acutis

Blessed Carlo Acutis, a "true disciple of St. Francis," was a remarkable teenager who sought to share the Gospel in the modern age of the internet. Born in London in 1991 and raised in Milan, Italy, he lived his life with his heart completely oriented towards Jesus, despite participating in modern activities like playing on a computer, swimming, and playing sports.

Blessed Acutis spent most of his vacation time in Assisi, where his family owned another home. It was here that he developed a strong attraction and connection to St. Francis, ultimately choosing to be buried in a room dedicated to remembering St. Francis' "renunciation," a significant moment in his life when he publicly disrobed and renounced his family's wealth to live in poverty and humble service to God.

Massimo Mennelli, a catechist from San Severo, Italy, considers Blessed Acutis a great guide and lesson for Catholics. Mennelli believes that Blessed Acutis prepared him for a difficult family situation, specifically the loss of his brother. Mennelli's dying brother faced the tragedy in a God-centered way, thanks to Blessed Acutis' teachings. Mennelli's brother is now in heaven, and he hopes he has met Blessed Acutis.

Blessed Acutis was devoted to Mary, reciting the rosary daily, helping the poor and homeless, and organizing the website of the Pontifical Academy "Cultorum Martyrum." His holiness seems accessible and close to everyone, making him an inspiration for many.

A handmade doll of Blessed Acutis is made by volunteers at Mennelli's parish, with an image of the Eucharist on its red shirt and a rosary with 15 beads in its backpack. This doll serves as a tangible reminder of Blessed Acutis' life and teachings.

In 2006, Blessed Acutis fell ill with leukemia and offered his life to God, dying at the age of 15. His body was brought back to Assisi for burial, where it now rests in the room dedicated to St. Francis' renunciation.

The shrine in Assisi emphasizes a core message of self-denial and renunciation as a path to love and God's glory. Father Marco Gaballo, rector of the Shrine of the Renunciation, stated that Blessed Carlo Acutis represents a shoot budding from the long history of holiness in Assisi that still attracts and produces new pathways to holiness.

On Sept. 7, Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to canonize Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati at the Vatican. The anticipation for Blessed Acutis' canonization is high, with approximately 1 million people visiting the Church of St. Mary Major in 2024. This number is expected to be much higher in 2025 due to the Holy Year, Jubilee of Youth, and Blessed Carlo Acutis' expected canonization.

Blessed Carlo Acutis' life serves as a testament to the power of faith, love, and service in the modern world. His story continues to inspire and guide Catholics around the world.

Saint entombed in Assisi is confirmed as fervent follower of St. Francis, according to the rector