A Model for the Millennial Generation: Blessed Carlo Acutis
A Model for the Millennial Generation: Blessed Carlo Acutis
On 10th October 2020, Carlo Acutis, a young Italian who tragically died from leukaemia in 2006 aged just fifteen, was beatified in Assisi. Now known as Blessed Carlo Acutis, this teenager is an example of a contemporary young person embracing their faith and living a life of holiness.
The photograph of Blessed Carlo depicts him in his jeans and tennis shoes. This is quite different to the images we have become accustomed to, of older figures from history who were either beatified, or the next step, canonised. In contrast Blessed Carlo was a young person who lived within the last thirty years. The beatification ceremony, led by Pope Francis, was attended by his parents, family and friends. Blessed Carlo’s parents, Antonia and Andrea carried the reliquary containing his heart to the altar. On the casket is inscribed ‘the Eucharist is my highway to heaven’, one of Blessed Carlo’s sayings.
Blessed Carlo had a deep love for the Eucharist, but also for the internet and modern living in general. At the age of 11, Carlo began to investigate the Eucharistic miracles that have occurred in history. He used all his computer knowledge and talents to create a website that traced that history. Its impact has been widespread.
When it comes to examining inspirational figures with our students, one might consider Blessed Carlo Acutis.
‘All people are born as originals but many die as photocopies’.
Blessed Carlo Acutis 1991 - 2006