The world has become increasingly full of people with grievances. People complain about politicians, their neighbors, or the lack of forth in their Latte. These grievances have been amplified through social media. Sure, there are actual injustices in this world and room for righteous anger. But when your life becomes one long list of grievances, all you get is grief! That was not the case with Carlo Acutis.
Inspiring people to disregard the petty slights and injustices of the world to focus and amplify moments of joy. They overcome adversity to show the way to a better life. They use the tools that so often sow discord to show us a better way. One such person was Carlo Acutis, who will be canonized as a Saint on September 7, 2025.
Carlos Acutis is the first millennial Catholic Saint. He passed from this earthly realm on 12 October 2006, from leukemia at the age of 17. He recognized the emerging power of the internet and social media and chose to utilize it to proclaim the goodness and glory of God. One of Carlo’s sayings was “we are all likely to fall short because as soon as someone says something we don’t like, we instantly grow angry”. However, unlike many of us (including myself), he did not utilize his social media skills to amplify his grievances. Instead, he used his skill to develop a media site that showcases the power of Eucharistic miracles to transform his life and that of others. His website and media presentation are now displayed on five continents and have been shown in over a thousand parishes and more than a hundred universities. Instead of influencing others to buy the latest gadget or gift, he influences others to a better life and to God.
His real life mirrored his virtual life. Although his family was wealthy, he did not spend the money on the latest game. Instead, he would use his allowance to buy food and sleeping bags for people experiencing homelessness. Instead of endless scrolling and posting for likes, he spent his time striving to bring others to what truly matters – being kind and loving God.
His final acts are the most important for our time. He did not post about his suffering as he was dying. He instead said, “There are a lot of people suffering a lot more than me. “ He was always focused on what is above and beyond, instead of what is here and before. He offered his suffering and kept a joyful face till the end.
