Carlo Acutis and the 4 Popes
This article chronicles the life and canonization of St. Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint, in the context of the last four popes. It highlights his devotion to the Eucharist and technology, tracing his journey from his youth under John Paul II to his canonization by Pope Leo XIV in 2025.
Why it matters
The canonization of a millennial saint marks a significant cultural shift for the Catholic Church as it seeks to engage younger, tech-savvy generations.
Oct. 12, 2026, marks the 20th anniversary of the death of St. Carlo Acutis, the Italian teenager who captivated a generation of young Catholics with his love of the Eucharist and passion for technology.
Acutis’ journey to sainthood has unfolded alongside the lives of the last four popes, each of whom has marked a different chapter in the teenager’s short life and legacy.
Carlo went on pilgrimage to see John Paul II, offered up his suffering from cancer for Benedict XVI, and was later beatified during the pontificate of Pope Francis. Finally, Pope Leo XIV canonized him, along with Pier Giorgio Frassati, on Sept. 7, 2025, making him the first millennial to ever be made a saint.
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