Carlo Acutis, an English-born Italian teenager who died of leukemia in 2006 at age 15, was canonized as a saint on September 7, 2025, becoming the first millennial saint of the Catholic Church. Known for his deep Eucharistic devotion and use of technology to spread the faith, he is often called “God’s influencer” and a patron of the internet.
Born on May 3, 1991, in London to Italian parents, Acutis moved with his family to Milan and later to Monza. From childhood, he displayed a profound love for God and was fascinated by Eucharistic miracles as evidence of Jesus’ Real Presence. He dedicated more than two years to documenting 187 Eucharistic miracles, creating a website and a portable exhibition that continues to travel worldwide.
His canonization in 2025 by Pope Leo XIV, alongside St. Pier Giorgio Frassati, marked the first new saints of that pontificate. The ceremony, originally scheduled for April 27, 2025, was deferred following the death of Pope Francis. Acutis’ feast day is October 12, the anniversary of his death.
Who Was Carlo Acutis?
May 3, 1991, London, England
October 12, 2006 (leukemia), Monza, Italy
Eucharistic devotion, digital evangelization, first millennial saint
September 7, 2025 by Pope Leo XIV
- Carlo Acutis is the first saint to be canonized from the millennial generation, emphasizing modern digital evangelization.
- His devotion to the Eucharist included cataloging over 150 Eucharistic miracles worldwide, which he displayed on a website.
- His canonization was approved after a second miracle (healing of a Costa Rican woman) was recognized by the Vatican in 2024.
- Despite his young age, he is a model of holiness for young people, often called “the patron saint of the internet.”
- He offered his suffering from leukemia in faith, saying, “I offer all for the Lord, the Pope, and the Church.”
- His body is preserved in a glass tomb in Assisi, which has become a major pilgrimage site.
| Fact | Value |
|---|---|
| Full name | Carlo Acutis |
| Birth | 3 May 1991, London, UK |
| Death | 12 October 2006, Monza, Italy (age 15) |
| Cause of death | Leukemia (M3 acute promyelocytic leukemia) |
| Beatified | 10 October 2020 by Pope Francis |
| Canonized | 7 September 2025 by Pope Leo XIV |
| Feast day | 12 October |
| Patronage | Youth, internet (unofficial) |
| Tomb location | Shrine of the Renunciation, Assisi, Italy |
How Did Carlo Acutis Die and What Were His Last Words?
Death from Leukemia
Carlo Acutis was diagnosed with a terminal form of leukemia at age 15. He faced his illness with remarkable faith, offering his suffering for the Church. He died on October 12, 2006, in Monza, Italy. At his request, he was buried in Assisi because of his devotion to St. Francis of Assisi.
His Final Words
Two statements are widely attributed to Acutis in his final days. He told his mother: “I offer all for the Lord, the Pope, and the Church.” And: “I am happy to die because I have lived my life without wasting a minute on those things which do not please God.” These words are cited in official biographies and have become a cornerstone of his spiritual legacy.
The exact wording varies slightly between sources. Some record “I die happy” instead of “I am happy to die.” All versions, however, convey the same serene acceptance of death rooted in a life lived for God.
What Miracles Are Attributed to Carlo Acutis?
First Miracle – Healing of a Brazilian Boy
For his beatification, the Church recognized the healing of a 3-year-old Brazilian boy born with a malformed pancreas. The boy was cured after his family prayed for Carlo’s intercession. The miracle was approved in 2020, leading to Acutis’ beatification on October 10, 2020.
Second Miracle – Healing of Valeria Valverde
The second miracle, which cleared the path to canonization, involved Valeria Valverde, a 21-year-old Costa Rican woman. She suffered a severe brain hemorrhage after a bicycle accident. The same day her mother prayed at Carlo’s tomb in Assisi, Valeria experienced a sudden and complete recovery. The Vatican approved this miracle in 2024.
Canonization in 2025
Pope Leo XIV canonized Carlo Acutis on September 7, 2025, in St. Peter’s Square, together with St. Pier Giorgio Frassati. The canonization was originally scheduled for April 27, 2025, but was postponed due to the death of Pope Francis. Acutis is now recognized as a saint of the Catholic Church.
Both miracles were rigorously examined by Vatican medical and theological commissions before being approved. The Church confirms that no natural explanation accounts for the instantaneous healings.
Where Is Carlo Acutis’ Tomb and How Can You Visit?
Carlo Acutis’ body is preserved in a glass tomb inside the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore at the Sanctuary of Spogliazione (Shrine of the Renunciation) in Assisi, Italy. The tomb is opened for veneration during feast days and major pilgrimages. Since his canonization, hundreds of thousands of visitors have traveled to Assisi to pray at his resting place.
The sanctuary is located in the historic center of Assisi, easily reachable from the main basilicas. Visitors are advised to check the official schedule for opening hours, especially on October 12, his feast day, when special masses and processions are held.
Some sources describe his body as “incorrupt.” Vatican documents indicate natural preservation with the use of a wax mask. The Church does not classify this as a miraculous incorruption, but the tomb remains a place of reverence.
Key Dates in the Life of Carlo Acutis
- – Born in London to Italian parents.
- – Dies of leukemia at age 15 in Monza.
- – Declared Venerable by Pope Francis.
- – Beatified in Assisi after first miracle (healing of a Brazilian boy).
- – Second miracle approved (healing of Valeria Valverde).
- – Canonized in St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City.
What Is Certain and What Remains Unclear About Carlo Acutis?
| Established Information | Information That Remains Unclear |
|---|---|
| Carlo Acutis died of leukemia on October 12, 2006. | Some sources claim his body is “incorrupt,” but Vatican documents note natural preservation with a wax mask; not a miracle per se. |
| He was beatified in 2020 and canonized in September 2025. | The exact wording of his last words varies slightly between sources (e.g., “I am happy to die” vs. “I die happy”). |
| His body is preserved in a glass reliquary at the Sanctuary of the Renunciation in Assisi. | Whether he will be officially declared patron of the internet is still under discussion. |
| His last words, “I am happy to die because I have lived my life without wasting a minute doing things that do not please God,” are widely cited. | — |
What Is the Significance of Carlo Acutis’ Canonization?
Carlo Acutis’ elevation to sainthood reflects the Catholic Church’s recognition of holiness in everyday digital life. His use of the internet to evangelize and his focus on the Eucharist resonate strongly with young Catholics. The canonization in 2025, during the Jubilee year, highlights the Church’s emphasis on youth and new media. Acutis represents a fusion of faith and modernity, showing that millennials can live lives of heroic virtue.
His example has inspired a wave of devotion among young people. The popularity of his website and the traveling Eucharistic miracle exhibition continue to draw attention worldwide. Many regard him as a saint for the age of social media, even as the Vatican considers official patronage of the internet.
Where Can I Find Reliable Sources and Quotes About Carlo Acutis?
“I am happy to die because I have lived my life without wasting a minute doing things that do not please God.”
— Carlo Acutis’ last words (as per official biography)
“The Eucharist is the highway to heaven.”
— Carlo Acutis
Key sources for accurate information include the official Carlo Acutis website, maintained by the Carlo Acutis Association, and Vatican News, which covered the canonization. Comprehensive biographies with references are available on Catholic.com and Britannica. News reports from BBC and EWTN also provide verified details.
What Is the Legacy of Carlo Acutis?
Carlo Acutis leaves a legacy that bridges faith and technology. His life proves that holiness is possible for millennials and that modern tools can serve evangelization. The two miracles confirmed by the Church attest to his intercessory power, and his tomb in Assisi continues to draw pilgrims. For those inspired by his story, the biographies and documentary Who is Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint? offer deeper insight. You may also find parallels in other lives cut short but full of purpose, such as Chadwick Aaron Boseman – Life, Career, Cause of Death and Lasting Legacy or Bon Scott – The Voice Behind AC/DC’s Early Success.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Carlo Acutis’ book about?
Several books have been published, including biographies like “Carlo Acutis: The First Millennial Saint” and collections of his writings. They focus on his life, Eucharistic devotion, and spiritual legacy.
Did Carlo Acutis have any official patronages?
He is often considered a patron of youth and the internet, though the Vatican has not officially declared a patronage.
What is the official Carlo Acutis website?
The official website is www.carloacutis.com, maintained by the Carlo Acutis Association, featuring his biography, timeline, and resources.
Are there any movies about Carlo Acutis?
Yes, several documentaries and a feature film titled “Carlo Acutis: The First Saint of the Internet” have been produced. Check streaming platforms or Catholic media outlets.
Why is Carlo Acutis called the first millennial saint?
He was born in 1991, making him part of the millennial generation. He is the first person from that generation to be canonized by the Catholic Church.
How old was Carlo Acutis when he died?
He was 15 years old. He died on October 12, 2006, after a short battle with leukemia.
What is Carlo Acutis’ feast day?
His feast day is October 12, the date of his death, as is customary for saints.
Did Carlo Acutis have a devotion to Mary?
Yes, he had a great devotion to Mary and prayed the Rosary daily, according to parish sources.
Can I visit Carlo Acutis’ tomb?
Yes, his tomb is in the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore at the Sanctuary of Spogliazione in Assisi. It is open for veneration, especially on feast days.
Daniel Mercer is Urban Affairs Editor at DailyCity.co.uk, covering councils, City Hall, planning, transport and infrastructure across London and major UK cities.