The Patron Saint of the Internet: Carlo Acutis
In a picturesque Italian hill town of Assisi, a heartwarming wedding took place at the historic Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore. An electronic engineer, Grzegorz Wielgoszewski, 39, and his French-teacher bride, Ewa Brzeska, 35, tied the knot in a ceremony attended by more clergy than guests. However, the most significant guest at their wedding was Carlo Acutis, a British-born computer whizkid set to become the Catholic Church’s first millennial saint.
Carlo, lovingly dubbed ‘God’s Influencer,’ was known for spreading the Lord’s teachings via the internet. Despite his young age, Carlo’s spiritual depth inspired many, including Grzegorz and Ewa, who dreamed of getting married in his presence. Carlo’s simple yet impactful life resonated with many as he lived by Christian virtues in a heroic manner.
Tragically, Carlo’s life was cut short at the age of 15 due to leukaemia. However, his legacy lives on through his beatification and the recent approval of his second miracle by Pope Francis. The miracles attributed to Carlo, including healings that defy medical explanation, have further solidified his path to sainthood.
Visitors from around the globe flock to Santa Maria Maggiore to pay homage to Carlo, whose body rests in a glass-sided tomb in the corner of the church. The young saint’s relics, including pieces of his pericardium, have garnered attention and reverence from believers seeking intercession and inspiration.
As the phenomenon of Carlo Acutis continues to captivate the faithful, Assisi sees a surge in tourism with visitors eager to connect with the ‘Patron Saint of the Internet.’ Carlo’s profound impact on the lives of those who encounter his story is a testament to his enduring legacy and unwavering faith.