Pope Leo XIV announces two new saints, including first canonized millennial

Pope Leo XIV Announces Two New Saints, Including First Canonized Millennial

On September 7, 2025, Pope Leo XIV made history by canonizing Carlo Acutis, officially recognizing him as the first millennial saint in the Catholic Church. This remarkable event took place during a grand open-air Mass at St. Peter’s Square, which attracted approximately 80,000 attendees, including millennials and families eager to witness this significant moment in the faith. Along with Acutis, the Pope also canonized Pier Giorgio Frassati, a notable Italian saint revered for his devout life and commitment to charity.

Celebrating a Young Saint’s Legacy

Pope Leo XIV shared powerful messages during the canonization ceremony, highlighting the extraordinary lives of both saints as an invitation for young people to dedicate themselves to God. He emphasized the importance of leading a life laden with meaning and purpose under God’s guidance. Acutis, who was just 15 years old at the time of his passing, is particularly representative of the millennial generation, embodying a blend of modernity and faith.

The Life and Impact of Carlo Acutis

Born on May 3, 1991, in London, Carlo Acutis initially enjoyed a comfortable childhood until a move to Milan deepened his commitment to the Catholic faith. He exhibited early interests in computer science, creating a multilingual website dedicated to documenting Eucharistic miracles. This unique contribution earned him the affectionate title of “God’s Influencer,” as he effectively used technology to share his faith with young people around the world.

Aside from his technological talents, Acutis was known for his disciplined approach to life. He maintained a daily prayer routine and thoughtfully limited his gaming time, striking a balance that resonates with the Catholic Church’s concerns about technology’s effects on interpersonal relationships and spiritual lives.

Tragically, Carlo passed away from leukemia in 2006 at the tender age of 15. His well-preserved body has since become a site of pilgrimage, drawing young visitors to Assisi, where he rests in eternal peace. The canonization of Acutis was aimed at presenting a relatable figure for contemporary youth, carefully navigating the dynamics of a digital age.

A Call to Modern Youth Through Faith

Despite the delays experienced due to the passing of Pope Francis earlier that same year, the canonization proceeded smoothly, signaling the Vatican’s dedication to engaging young Catholics using relevant figures like Acutis. Pope Leo XIV’s initiative to canonize a millennial saint sends a clear message that the Church is eager to connect with young audiences and to utilize modern examples of holiness to inspire future generations.

Accompanying Carlo on this momentous day, Pier Giorgio Frassati, who was canonized alongside him, is celebrated for his unwavering commitment to charity, promoting a message that emphasizes the importance of altruism and service in daily life. Both saints exemplify the rich virtues that young individuals are encouraged to adopt as they grow in faith.

The canonization of Carlo Acutis serves as a powerful model for the Church, illustrating how it can foster connections with younger generations while navigating the complexities of modern living. By promoting figures like Acutis and Frassati, the Church aims to inspire youth to cultivate a strong spiritual foundation and engage fully with life in the world around them.