A Modern Teen, a Timeless Faith
Blessed Carlo Acutis is about to make history. Soon to be canonized* as the first millennial saint, Carlo is capturing hearts all over the world, especially among young people. Born in 1991 in London and raised in Milan, Carlo loved soccer, Pokémon, and video games. But his heart was all in for Jesus, especially in the Eucharist.
From a very young age, Carlo had an unshakable devotion to the Blessed Sacrament. He attended daily Mass, prayed the Rosary, and encouraged others to believe in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. By the time he was 11, he had started building a website cataloguing Eucharistic miracles long before most of us had even heard of blogging.
Carlo died in 2006 at the age of 15 from leukemia. Before his death, he offered his suffering for the pope and the Church. He was beatified in 2020, and his upcoming canonization will officially declare what many already believe: Carlo is a saint for our time.
Why Carlo Matters Right Now
In a world where it’s easy to get lost in scrolling and distraction, Carlo shows us how to live with purpose and faith, even in a digital age. He reminds us that holiness is possible at any age, and that technology can be used to evangelize, inspire, and lead others to Christ.
His famous quote sums it up:
“The Eucharist is my highway to Heaven.”
Devotions for the Digital Disciple
Many Catholics have already started turning to Blessed Carlo Acutis as a patron of students, tech users, and the modern youth. If you’re looking for ways to draw closer to God through Carlo’s intercession, here are some small devotions to consider:
• Clip a Carlo Acutis medal to your backpack or keep a holy card in your phone case to stay inspired.
• Visit Eucharistic Adoration more regularly. Carlo called it his “appointment with Jesus.”
• Pray for students returning to school this fall, especially those struggling with depression and anxiety.
• Share his story with others, it’s the perfect way to make the faith feel real and relatable.
Shop the Devotion
At Small Devotions, we’re working on adding to our Carlo Acutis collection to help inspire your faith. Stay tuned for updates to our collection which will include rosary centers, metal pater beads, and a holy water bottle - perfect for back-to-school gifts or confirmation presents.
*Blessed Carlo Acutis will be canonized into sainthood by Pope Leo XIV on Sunday, September 7, 2025.