Pilgrims Flock to Assisi for Canonization of Teen Saint Carlo Acutis

ASSISI, Italy (AP) — As the April 27 canonization of Carlo Acutis approaches, thousands of pilgrims are flocking to this medieval hilltop town to pay their respects. Acutis, who died from leukemia at 15 in 2006, will become the first millennial saint officially recognized by the Catholic Church.

On Saturday, March 1, 2025, visitors from around the world gathered at the Santuario della Spogliazione—also known as the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore—where Acutis’ body is on display. Among them was a group of 50 youth from southern Italy, led by mother and educator Maria Rosario Riccio. She spoke about Acutis’ relatability to younger generations. “Carlo is like the kids,” Riccio said. “He’s a near-saint of our time, who can show teens that it’s possible to love Jesus while being a regular youth.”

As followers shuffled past the monument displaying Acutis’ remains, they represented various demographics: a priest and parishioners from the Azores, a nun from Colombia, and a family from near Venice. Many captured selfies in front of the shrine, while others reverently touched the protective glass covering Acutis’ tomb.

The influx of guests astonished Assisi’s Bishop Domenico Sorrentino, who remarked about the “volcano of grace erupting” in the town. “I can’t believe my eyes,” Sorrentino said, noting how over a million pilgrims have visited Acutis’ shrine over the past year, drawn by the teen’s “smiling way of living our faith.”

Acutis is celebrated not just for his piety but for his appeal to youth. His image can be found in souvenir shops throughout Assisi, often depicted in a red polo shirt and carrying a backpack. Shop owner Silvia Balducci remarked, “I was really curious about this new saint who attracts youth.”

His mother, Antonia Salzano Acutis, described Carlo as an “exceptionally devout but otherwise regular Italian boy,” whose legacy continues to inspire not just devotion but action. “Carlo wasn’t an alien; he was a normal person. But if it’s illuminated by the light of Christ, a life becomes extraordinary,” she told The Associated Press.

Despite not being an observant Catholic herself at the time of his birth, Antonia recalled Carlo’s unselfishness and cheerful demeanor. He displayed a profound interest in faith, often praying the rosary and helping his peers, which contrasted with his friends engaged in more typical teenage behaviors.

Acutis often lent support to the less fortunate, suggesting his family donate funds earmarked for additional sneakers to the poor instead. He dedicated his time to teaching catechism at his church instead of indulging in lavish vacations enjoyed by peers in affluent Milan.

Father Enzo Fortunato acknowledged the parallels between Acutis and St. Francis, emphasizing that both approached their faith with unwavering conviction. “And there are more similarities with St. Francis,” he noted, “today the public squares are online, on the Web.” Acutis is recognized for bringing the Gospel to the digital sphere, making him a likely candidate for patronage over the Internet and social media.

His commitment to the Eucharist drove him to create an online exhibit documenting miracles associated with the sacrament, widely used in parishes worldwide. His mother conveyed that Carlo should be remembered as a “bridge to Jesus,” with faith remaining central even through his illness.

To be canonized, a person must be credited with miracles attributed to their intercession. So far, one recognized miracle involves the recovery of a Costa Rican student after her mother prayed to Acutis, according to Bishop Sorrentino.

Sabina Falcetta, a devotee from nearby Perugia, attests to Acutis’ influence. “Carlo Acutis gives us peace,” she expressed, adding, “Most importantly he gives us the certainty that God is a good father. And you can’t ask for more.”

Outside the sanctuary, a catechism group from Lake Garda gathered to pray, sharing lessons about both St. Francis and Acutis’ charitable works. Catechist Veronica Abraham highlighted the importance of being kind to the lonely, reflecting on Acutis’ interactions with individuals in need.

One of her students, 13-year-old Mario Girardi, remarked on Acutis’ ability to connect with everyone. “Even a ciao is important for those who are alone,” Girardi stated, feeling inspired by Acutis’ actions. He expressed hope to maintain that mindset as he continues his journey of faith.