ROME — Pope Leo XIV on Friday set Sept. 7 as the rescheduled date to canonize the Catholic Church’s first millennial-era saint Carlo Acutis.
Leo made the announcement during a meeting of cardinals, known as a consistory, to set the dates for a handful of new saints.
Acutis’ canonization was originally scheduled for April 27, but was postponed following the death of Pope Francis on April 21.
Acutis passed away at the age of 15 in 2006 in northern Italy due to leukemia. He has gained immense popularity, particularly among young Catholics, who are visiting his grave in Assisi.
Despite engaging in typical activities for his age such as hiking, playing video games, and socializing with friends, Acutis also dedicated his time to teaching catechism at a local church and assisting the homeless. Furthermore, he utilized his computer expertise to develop an online presentation showcasing over 100 eucharistic miracles acknowledged by the church throughout many centuries.
His resting place in Assisi has transformed into a revered destination, notably during the ongoing 2025 Holy Year. The tomb comprises a transparent casket wherein Acutis rests, attired in sneakers, jeans, and a sweatshirt.
The body of Carlo Acutis, an Italian boy who died in 2006 of leukemia, lies in his tomb in Assisi, Italy, on Saturday, March 1, 2025.
AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia, file
In setting the Sept. 7 date, Leo announced that Acutis would be canonized along with another Italian Catholic, Pier Giorgio Frassati, who also died young at age 24 after contracting polio.
Copyright © 2025 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.
