• Carlo Acutis, known as "God's Influencer," was canonized as the first millennial saint by Pope Leo XIV.
• Acutis is recognized for using technology to spread Catholic teachings, particularly Eucharistic miracles.
• His canonization reflects the Catholic Church's effort to connect with younger generations.
• Thousands attended the ceremony in Assisi, showcasing Acutis' increasing popularity among youth.
• His tomb and relics have become major pilgrimage sites, inspiring prayers and miraculous claims worldwide.

Carlo Acutis, a 15-year-old Italian known as "God's Influencer," was canonized on Sunday by Pope Leo XIV, making him the first millennial saint in the Catholic Church. His life, which concluded tragically at a young age due to leukemia in 2006, has captured the devotion of millions, especially young Catholics. Acutis became well-known for utilizing technology to promote his faith, particularly through his catalog of Eucharistic miracles available online in multiple languages, showcasing his significant impact on contemporary religious outreach, according to CBS News, NPR, and Newsweek.

The canonization took place in Assisi, Italy, with thousands of supporters attending the ceremony. Acutis' tomb, located in this historic city, has been turned into a vibrant pilgrimage site, attracting devotees from various regions. Acutis' mother, Antonia Salzano, described this rapid elevation to sainthood as both a blessing and a responsibility. Unique aspects of his legacy include the widespread use of the internet by his followers to seek his intercession, with many claiming miraculous results from their prayers directed to him, as reported by CBS News and Newsweek.

Acutis' approachability as a saint is emphasized through his everyday clothing, depicted in a wax figure that reflects his teenage life, including attire such as jeans and sneakers. This relatable presentation is a strategic move by the Catholic Church to draw younger generations closer to traditional faith practices amid the complexities of the digital age, as articulated by Pope Leo XIV during the canonization Mass. He remarked that Acutis serves as a model for young people to find joy and meaning in their faith, thus encouraging them to engage more deeply, according to NPR and CBS News.

The process leading to Acutis' canonization commenced in 2012, reflecting a swift journey through the ecclesiastical examination of his life and virtues. His mother and supporters highlighted his unwavering commitment to the church from a young age, having requested to attend Mass daily and initiated various charitable acts throughout his life. This journey culminated in the acknowledgment of two miracles attributed to him, essentials for canonization, including the healing of a young boy and a woman involved in a severe accident, as noted by NPR and Newsweek.

Relics associated with Acutis have been prominently displayed and toured globally, with significant public interest as people seek comfort and inspiration through his example. These elements highlight the church's efforts to appeal to millennials and Gen Z, aligning Acutis' legacy with contemporary spiritual needs and the digital landscape of faith. Archbishop Domenico Sorrentino emphasized this connection, stating that Acutis embodies a modern youth figure who can profoundly resonate with the struggles faced by today's young believers, according to CBS News and Newsweek.