Carlo Acutis to Be Canonized Sept. 7 as Catholic Church’s First Millennial Saint

Tone & Political Bias: Center

Why: The report presents a straightforward religious announcement with no ideological slant or political framing.

Dobroš, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Canonization Date Set by Pope Leo XIV

Pope Leo XIV has announced that Carlo Acutis will be canonized on September 7, 2025, becoming the Catholic Church’s first saint from the millennial era. The decision was made during a formal meeting of cardinals known as a consistory. Acutis will be canonized alongside Pier Giorgio Frassati, another young Italian Catholic who died in 1925.

Originally scheduled for April 27, the canonization was delayed due to the death of Pope Francis on April 21. The rescheduling aligns with the Church's 2025 Holy Year, a time of pilgrimage and renewal.

Life and Legacy of Carlo Acutis

Carlo Acutis was born in 1991 and died in 2006 at the age of 15 from leukemia. He lived in northern Italy and was known for his deep religious faith alongside a typical teenage life. He enjoyed video games and hiking, but also spent time teaching catechism and helping the homeless.

What set him apart was his ability to merge his devotion with technology. He built an online exhibit cataloging over 100 Church-recognized eucharistic miracles. This work earned him a reputation as a pioneer in digital evangelism and helped broaden Catholic outreach to younger generations.

Pilgrimage and Popularity

Acutis’ burial site in Assisi has become a major destination during the Holy Year. His body lies in a glass coffin, dressed in jeans, sneakers, and a sweatshirt — a presentation that many young Catholics find relatable and inspirational. Pilgrims from around the world continue to visit, drawn by his story and legacy.

Frassati to Be Canonized Alongside

Also being canonized on the same day is Pier Giorgio Frassati. He died at 24 from polio and is remembered for his commitment to social justice and his work with the poor. Like Acutis, Frassati represents a modern example of youth-driven Catholic faith and service.

Broader Church Implications

The canonization of Acutis marks a significant moment for the Catholic Church. It reflects the Vatican’s ongoing efforts to highlight relatable figures who resonate with today’s youth. Acutis is expected to inspire a new generation of Catholics who see faith and modern life not as opposing forces, but as complementary paths.