First Millennial Saint, Canonized on April 27th in St. Peter's Square.
A Journey of Faith and Devotion

Carlo Acutis was an extraordinary young man whose life, though brief, left a lasting impact on those around him and beyond. Born on May 3, 1991, in London, Carlo grew up in Milan, Italy, where he lived a life characterized by deep faith, boundless generosity, and an unwavering devotion to the Eucharist. His story is a testament to the power of faith and the enduring legacy one individual can leave in the world.

Early Life and Faith
Even at an early age, Carlo exhibited a profound interest in religion and spirituality. He was baptized as an infant and received his First Holy Communion at the age of seven. From that moment, Carlo developed a special devotion to the Eucharist, attending daily Mass and spending time in Eucharistic Adoration whenever possible. His faith was not merely a routine but a deeply felt connection with the divine that guided his actions and decisions.
A Passion for Technology
Carlo was not only a devout Catholic but also a tech-savvy teenager with a passion for computers and programming. He taught himself how to code and used his skills to create websites and online content that promoted his faith. One of his most notable projects was the creation of a website that cataloged and documented Eucharistic miracles from around the world. This online resource aimed to spread awareness and inspire belief in the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.
A Life of Service and Kindness: The extra ordinary in the ordinary
Carlo's faith was evident in his actions and interactions with others. He was known for his kindness, compassion, and willingness to help those in need. Whether it was standing up against bullying at school, volunteering at soup kitchens, or sharing his faith with friends and classmates, Carlo lived out the Gospel message in his everyday life. His genuine love for others and his desire to bring them closer to God earned him the admiration and respect of many. His parish priest, Monsignor Gianfranco Poma, described him as a normal boy, but with a special harmony. Life is brief and fragile, but Carlo, far from wasting it, lived life to the full . With the phrase: “All people are born as originals but many die as photocopies,” he invites us to do the same search for true happiness. 
“Happiness is looking towards God. Sadness is looking towards yourself.”
Illness and Legacy
In 2006, at the age of 15, Carlo was diagnosed with leukemia. Despite the pain and suffering that came with his illness, Carlo remained steadfast in his faith, offering his suffering for the Pope and the Church. Faced with the legacy of Carlo' life, we might ask ourselves: what do the words love, pain, joy, and suffering mean for him? Such questions bring us to reflect on what death means for us. His remarkable acceptance of his condition and his unwavering trust in God's plan left a profound impression on those who witnessed his journey. Carlo passed away on October 12, 2006, but his legacy of faith, love, and devotion continues to inspire people worldwide.
Beatification and Recognition
Carlo Acutis's virtuous life and the impact he had on others did not go unnoticed. In 2020, he was beatified by the Catholic Church, a significant step towards sainthood. His beatification ceremony was held in Assisi, Italy, and attended by thousands of people who admired and were inspired by his story. Carlo Acutis is often referred to as the "Patron Saint of the Internet" due to his innovative use of technology to spread his faith.
Journey to Sainthood
The story of Carlo Acutis is a powerful reminder of how a life lived with faith, love, and service can leave an indelible mark on the world. His unwavering devotion to the Eucharist, his kindness towards others, and his ability to use technology for the greater good serve as an inspiration to people of all ages. Carlo's legacy continues to grow, proving that even a young life can have a profound and lasting influence. Carlo Acutis becomes the catholic Church's first millennial saint at the solemn canonization mass on April 27th in St. Peter's Square.
Carlo Acutis, a layperson who, with the enthusiasm of his youth, cultivated friendship with the lord Jesus, placing the Eucharist and the witness of charity at the center of his own life, from now on be called a saint that it be celebrated every year. 
Let him inspire our youth, and we all can live, love, and serve, placing Jesus as a number one priority in our lives, and yearn  to be Saints.
 
Rowin Vallippadavil, 11th Grade, Ohio.