On September 7, 2025, Pope Leo, by God’s grace, raised Carlo Acutis, an Italian teenager, to the altar as a saint. This canonization was an extraordinary family affair. For the first time ever, twin brother and sister and both parents celebrated the sainthood of their son and brother. Carlo died as an only child in 2006 at age fifteen. His mother and father yearned for other children without success and began the long process of adoption. Antonia, his mother, said Carlo appeared to her in a dream to tell her that she would be a mother again soon. Not long after, she discovered she was pregnant with twins. The boy, Michele, proclaimed the first reading at Mass and Francesca presented relics of Saint Carlo at the offertory.
Faith in the Eucharist: The Heart of Carlo's Mission
Carlo Acutis believed deeply in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. This conviction shaped his personal spiritual life and inspired his online activities. He created a website cataloging Eucharistic miracles from around the globe, aiming to help others discover the wonder and mystery of the Blessed Sacrament.
Devotion to the Rosary: A Digital Chain of Prayer
Alongside his love for the Eucharist, Carlo was devoted to praying the Rosary daily. “My most important appointment of the day is the Rosary.” On his website and social media, Carlo shared resources about the Rosary, including guides on how to pray, the mysteries, and testimonies about its spiritual benefits.
By combining technology with tradition, Carlo inspired many young people to take up the Rosary, as a “digital chain” creating a virtual community of prayer.
Carlo Acutis understood that the internet was a powerful opportunity to share faith. He used websites, social media, and digital presentations to spread his message with kindness, authenticity, and a genuine desire to help others encounter God.
He encouraged others to use technology responsibly, reminding them that the internet was a gift from God that could be used for good.
Today’s scripture readings catalog all the missed opportunities for which the people of Judah are punished with exile and the missed opportunities to know and accept Jesus by the neighboring towns of Chorazin and Bethsaida.
Rather than just lament the misuse of social media, Saint Carlo Acutis leads the way in showing us, especially young people, how to use this amazing opportunity for good now and in the future. Saint Carlo Acutis, Pray for us.
- Today’s Readings
- Father Willy's inspirational homily was recorded live during Mass at the Father Peyton Center this morning. You can view the Mass (and the Rosary at the 30-minute mark) on the Family Rosary YouTube page.
- To join the Rosary and Mass Livestream, visit the Family Rosary YouTube or Facebook page at 11:30 a.m. Eastern, Monday – Friday. Consider inviting others to join too! (*If you are not a member of Facebook and a signup window appears, simply select the X at the top of the pop-up message and continue to the livestream.)
