In a spectacular celebration held at the Vatican, the Catholic Church warmly welcomed two new saints into its fold: Saint Pier Giorgio Frassati and the remarkably modern Saint Carlo Acutis. This occasion drew an impressive crowd of followers, with the Vatican estimating around 80,000 attendees in Saint Peter’s Square alone. However, it’s likely that many more came, leading some enthusiastic observers to think the total number could be as high as 200,000. People lined the streets, creating a lively and festive atmosphere, reminiscent of a joyful family reunion, albeit one held under the intense summer sun. Many attendees were there for long stretches, patiently sitting in the heat to witness this blessed moment.
The ceremony itself was a grand affair, marked by heartfelt speeches and moments of reflection. It was especially moving for those who knew Saint Carlo Acutis, who passed away at the tender age of 15 due to a swift battle with leukemia. Known as the “sneaker saint,” Carlo’s relatable persona and youthful spirit resonated powerfully with the younger generation. Even in his short life, Carlo managed to make a significant impact, not only through his devotion to faith but also by bridging the gap between ancient traditions and modern technology. Carlo was passionate about using the internet to showcase miracles around the world, effectively reaching out to young people who might be hesitant to step into a church.
Saint Pier Giorgio Frassati was also recognized, but it’s clear that Carlo’s story especially draws in the youth. Carlo’s journey to sainthood is inspiring, particularly because he was not born into a devout family. From an early age, he enthusiastically pulled his parents toward religious practices. By the time he was five years old, he was already using rosaries and embracing his faith with open arms. It goes to show that sometimes all it takes is one passionate person to spark a flame that brings others along for the ride.
Among the crowd, emotions ran high. As the Pope made his way around the square in the popemobile after the liturgy, there were beaming smiles and joyful waves from the audience. Even with the scorching heat, the faithful seemed undeterred from celebrating this important moment in the Church’s history. After all, the heat could not compete with the warmth of shared devotion and camaraderie among those present. The spirits were jubilant, and everyone seemed eager to embrace the new saints.
Carlo’s legacy—particularly as someone who inspired other young souls to cultivate their faith—certainly stands out. His light shines brightly, even posthumously, as he remains rooted in the memories of those who look up to him as an example. With his incorporation into the litany of saints, children around the world now have someone to turn to in prayer, embodying hope and the promise of faithfulness. As the dust settles and the crowd drifts away, the significance of this day remains etched into the hearts of many, reminding everyone that even the youngest among us can leave a legacy that transcends time.
