Blessed Carlo Acutis

Biography

Blessed Carlo Acutis, born on 3 May 1991 in Barking and Dagenham, London, England, was a teenage layman in the archdiocese of Milan, Italy. He gained recognition for his profound spirituality and technological skills, particularly in creating a series of websites dedicated to Church-related supernatural events. Despite his young age, Carlo was deeply devoted to his Catholic faith, and his passion for technology served as a means to spread the message of God's love to a wider audience.

Carlo's interests included various aspects of technology, such as computer programming, video editing, and website design. He used his talents to create websites that showcased miracles, Eucharistic miracles, Marian apparitions, and the lives of saints. Through these platforms, he aimed to guide others towards a deeper understanding of their faith and a closer relationship with God.

Beyond his technological accomplishments, Carlo was known as a compassionate and caring individual. He attended school in Milan, where he gained a reputation for defending other students, especially those with disabilities, from bullies. His empathy and willingness to stand up for others exemplified his desire to spread kindness and love.

Unfortunately, Carlo's life was cut short due to leukemia. On 12 October 2006, at the age of 15, he passed away in Monza, Milan, Italy, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration and holiness. Carlo's funeral took place in the Cimitero di Assisi, Assisi, Provincia di Perugia, Umbria, Italy, where he was initially laid to rest.

In recognition of his heroic virtues, Pope Francis venerated Carlo on 5 July 2018, proclaiming him as "Blessed." His beatification took place on 10 October 2020 at the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi, Italy, with Cardinal Agostino Vallini serving as the chief celebrant. The beatification miracle attributed to Carlo involved the healing of a child in Brazil in 2013 who was cured of a pancreatic disorder.

Carlo Acutis continues to inspire countless individuals, both young and old, with his profound spirituality, love for the Church, and exceptional technological skills. His life is a testament to the fact that holiness can be achieved even in the midst of modern technological advancements. Carlo's remains were subsequently re-interred on 5-6 April 2019 at the Shrine of the Spogliazione, located within the church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Assisi, Italy. His feast day is celebrated on 12 October, commemorating the day of his death.