With a quiet but historic declaration, Pope Leo XIV opened the doors to a canonization that bridges generations — and ignites debate across the globe.
In a historic moment at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV presided over his first Ordinary Public Consistory on Friday morning. The event marked a pivotal point in his pontificate and brought with it an announcement that has stirred global attention.
During the solemn ceremony, Pope Leo XIV and the College of Cardinals gave formal approval for the canonizations of eight Blesseds. Among them were two figures whose lives continue to inspire generations — Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati and Blessed Carlo Acutis.
The Pope declared that both men would be canonized together in Rome on September 7, 2025. This date now stands as a milestone in the Church’s calendar. It will see the canonization of the first saint born in the 21st century — Carlo Acutis — alongside Pier Giorgio Frassati, a figure of early 20th-century Catholic devotion.
The Vatican’s announcement swiftly traveled across social media, generating a wave of reactions. Some posts expressed criticism. “IS THIS A JOKE,” wrote one user. Another commented, “And this is why Reformation was needed.”
Others offered perspectives.“The pope is just a man. Js,” one post noted, while another defended the decision, “Honestly, it’s no different than walking around 2000 years ago spreading the word — just because it’s a different medium doesn’t make his work less meaningful.” Someone else asked, “I don’t get it. What makes him a saint?”
There were more comments like, “I can see the heroic virtue of Frassati, but just what exactly did Acutis do that was heroic ( and designing a website doesn’t make one heroic)?”
Another wrote, “Amen. Blessed Carlo Acutis, please pray and intercede for us—especially, our Youth,” capturing the sentiment of many who see him as a spiritual guide for younger generations.
Others highlighted the significance of his legacy in today’s context. “Carlo Acutis becoming the first millennial saint is a powerful reminder that holiness is possible in the digital age,” read one comment. “His love for the Eucharist and use of tech to spread the faith make him a true role model for today’s youth.”
The road to this dual canonization has not been without its twists. The late Pope had first revealed plans to canonize Blesseds Pier Giorgio Frassati and Carlo Acutis during the General Audience on November 20, 2024.
The announcement was met with thunderous applause in St. Peter’s Square, signaling the deep admiration both men command among the faithful. Originally, each canonization was set to align with special events during the Jubilee Year.
Carlo Acutis’ canonization was scheduled for April, 27 — Divine Mercy Sunday — coinciding with the Jubilee of Teenagers. Pier Giorgio Frassati’s was to follow on 3 August, marking the close of the Jubilee for Youth.
However, those plans changed abruptly. On 21 April, the same day Pope Francis passed away, the Vatican announced the postponement of Carlo Acutis’ canonization. The delay cast uncertainty over Frassati’s canonization as well, leading many to assume both would be rescheduled indefinitely.
Now, with a new pontificate and a fresh decision from Pope Leo XIV, both young men are set to be canonized together— binding their stories in a single moment of spiritual and historical significance.
Carlo Acutis lived a life that many would describe as ordinary — school, soccer, video games, and even saxophone lessons. But behind his youthful energy was a profound devotion that set him apart.
From a young age, Carlo exhibited an uncommon spiritual maturity. At just seven, he received First Communion and committed to a daily routine of Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, and the Rosary. “To always be united with Jesus, this is my life plan,” he once wrote.
A statue of Carlo Acutis is seen outside a religious shop a day ahead of the conclave on May 6, 2025 in Vatican City, Italy | Source: Getty Images
His love for the Eucharist shaped everything he did. Whether tutoring classmates, serving the poor, or volunteering at soup kitchens, Carlo infused everyday actions with deep faith. He also embraced technology, using the internet to spread devotion to the Eucharist — an apostolic mission he carried out with passion.
Carlo believed that sainthood was within reach for everyone. “All are born as originals, but many die as photocopies,” he famously said. He strived to live as an “original,” rooted in God and guided by the sacraments. His motto: “Not I, but God.”
Faithful prays in front of the tomb of Carlo Acutis at Santa Maria Maggiore Sanctuary of the Renunciation on April 23, 2025 in Assisi, Italy | Source: Getty Images
Carlo died in 2006 at the age of 15. Yet in that short span, he lived a life of holiness that continues to inspire youth across the globe — a modern path to sainthood paved with prayer, service, and code.
