Young individual famously referred to as 'God's influencer' poised to be recognized as the initial millennial saint

Carlo Acutis, a 15-year-old boy born in London and raised in Milan, will be canonized as the first millennial saint by Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square. This historic event marks the recognition of Acutis's extraordinary life and contributions to the Catholic Church.

Astonishingly, Acutis taught himself how to program computers and built a website cataloging more than 100 Eucharistic miracles recognized by the Church. His initiative to spread the religion through technology was taken at the tender age of eleven.

Despite his passion for programming, Acutis expressed a keen interest in a career in the church. His devotion was to the medieval saint St. Francis, whose hometown was Assisi, where Acutis would later be entombed.

Monsignor Anthony Figueiredo described Acutis as a "different kind of saint" who was inspired by Steve Jobs. A Mexican student hailed Acutis as someone who could be emulated, stating that he wore jeans and trainers, much like many young people today.

From an early age, Acutis was known for his generosity and compassion. After receiving his First Communion at the age of seven, he attended daily Mass regularly and taught catechism in a local parish.

The Catholic Church has attributed two miracles to Acutis, which led to his path toward sainthood. The first miracle was approved by Pope Francis in 2020, declaring him "blessed." The second miracle was attributed in 2021, crediting him with the complete healing of a Costa Rican student named Valeria Valverde.

Carlo Acutis's mother described him as a normal teenager who enjoyed playing video games, hanging out with friends, and playing soccer. Yet, she also noted that he opened his heart to God, making him a "sign of hope" and encouraging young people to be unique and strive for holiness.

Thousands of worshippers visit Acutis's tomb daily, testifying to his continued influence and impact on the faith. Pope Francis, who has encouraged the Vatican to embrace technology, called the internet a "gift from God." Acutis's life and work serve as a powerful example of how technology can be harnessed for the greater good of spreading the Gospel.

Sunday's ceremony for Acutis's canonization will be the first time Pope Leo XIV presides over such an event. Acutis's saying, "All of us are born originals, but so many of us end up as photocopies," encapsulates his message of individuality and the importance of living a life true to oneself. Acutis's story serves as a powerful reminder that one's youth is not a barrier to greatness and that each person has the potential to make a profound impact on the world.

Young individual famously referred to as 'God's influencer' poised to be recognized as the initial millennial saint