Acutis becomes the first Catholic saint of the millennial generation

Teenager Carlo Acutis, who died of leukemia at the age of just 15, will become the first Catholic saint from the millennial generation this Sunday.

The canonization will be presided over by the new Pope Leo XIV in St. Peter's Square, where tens of thousands of faithful are expected to attend.

Carlo, born in London and raised in Italy, combined his faith with technology—he created websites to spread the Gospel. His mother says he lived like a normal teenager, but with an extraordinary openness to God.

Pope Leo will also canonize another young Italian during the ceremony—Pier Giorgio Frassati.

Carlo Acutis' body is lying in state in Assisi, dressed in a hoodie, jeans, and sneakers. The place has become a pilgrimage destination for thousands of people.

Carlo's canonization is considered a significant moment for the modern church—his life shows that even today's young people can live with deep faith and inspire those around them in a way that appeals to their generation.

(reuters, lup)