On September 7th, 2025, Saint Carlo Acutis was canonized as “the first millennial saint,” and we just celebrated his feast day for the first time a few weeks later on October 12th. What was so special about this seemingly ordinary kid in sneakers? What exactly made him a saint?
Despite living such an ordinary life and even being involved with many secular activities such as sports and video games, his faith and Christlike spirit made him stand out. He may have blended in with his age group with the way he looked, but his soul inside was burning on fire for love of Jesus in the Eucharist. He is famously quoted for saying, “The Eucharist is my highway to Heaven.”
In addition to his intense love for Christ, he also had a special devotion to Christ’s mother: the Blessed Virgin Mary. He always made sure to pray a daily rosary saying, “The Rosary is the most important appointment of the day.” Furthermore, he is known for saying, “The Virgin Mary is the only woman in my life.”
However, Carlo Acutis not only had a love for the things of Heaven, but he saw the face of Jesus in others on earth as well, especially seeing Christ in the poor. For instance, he would give sleeping bags and warm meals to the homeless. He had much compassion for them. In many ways, he was like a little Saint Francis of Assisi.
I am also reminded of the very words of Jesus from Sacred Scripture when I think of Saint Carlo Acutis.
“…Jesus said, ‘Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’” Matthew 19:14
In this quote, Jesus reminds us that we will not even enter His kingdom unless we become like children. We must have a childlike trust in God and love for Him as a child loves and trusts his father. This is the key to Heaven, and Saint Carlo Acutis exemplified this.
“‘Thus, the last will be first, and the first will be last.’” Matthew 20:16
Saint Carlo Acutis always made himself a servant of God. He also made himself a servant to others in many ways. He never failed to put the needs of others before his own.
Personally, I feel inspired by Saint Carlo Acutis’ life, and I realize that through my love of the Eucharist, the Rosary, and the poor, I can become a saint, too. Someone dear to me gave me a little coin and picture of Saint Carlo Acutis that I look at and pray in front of every day, asking for his prayers for my loved ones. When I pray to him, I feel such peace. I know he is watching over us and interceding on our behalf. In fact, after watching a couple of documentaries based on his life, I realized that this “new” saint has touched and inspired the lives of many people all over the world. As he was ready to lend a helping hand on earth, he lends a helping hand in heaven.
And since Saint Carlo Acutis is, in fact, “the first millennial saint,” I know that he inspires a whole new generation of believers as well. People can find him relatable and are not afraid to approach him. Whether their requests are big or small, Saint Carlo Acutis will offer his assistance.
Speaking of prayer to Saint Carlo Acutis, I wrote the following prayer to him. You also can say this prayer, and do not hesitate to ask for his intercession:
“Dear Saint Carlo Acutis, you are an inspiration to the modern age. Continue to inspire believers and non-believers alike, especially our youth, that their hearts may be set on fire for Jesus in the Eucharist; with a love for the Virgin Mary, by the daily recitation of the Rosary, and for the poor, by doing what we can do to help when we are able.
You know the problems we face in today’s world, especially with technology. Let us remember that this tool should only be used for good.
Let us never forget that by your example, sainthood is possible for everyone as long as we are willing to do our part.
You gave us words of wisdom when you said, ‘The Eucharist is my highway to Heaven.’ Let this be true for us as well, always making sure we take a moment each day to adore Him in our hearts. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.”
Taking a closer look at Saint Carlo Acutis’ life makes us take a closer look at our own lives. Remember, sainthood is honestly right around the corner for all of us – if only we are willing to meet Jesus halfway.
