The canonization of Carlo Acutis, a young Italian known for his use of technology in evangelization, has been suspended due to the death of Pope Francis. The announcement came from the Holy See on April 21, 2025, just hours after the Pope's passing, which has left the Catholic Church in a period of transition.
Initially scheduled for April 27, 2025, the canonization ceremony was set to coincide with the Jubilee of Adolescents, an event expected to draw thousands of young people to Rome. However, since the act of canonization falls under the pontifical magisterium, it cannot occur during a vacancy of the Apostolic See. This means that the next Pope will need to set a new date for the ceremony.
Matteo Bruni, the Director of the Press Office of the Holy See, confirmed that while the canonization is postponed, the Jubilee of Adolescents will take place as planned from April 25 to 27. He emphasized, "the Jubilee remains open," despite the significant change in the schedule.
Carlo Acutis, who passed away at the young age of 15 from acute leukemia in 2006, was known for his deep faith and remarkable use of digital platforms to spread the Christian message. He earned the nickname the "Geek of God" for his passion for technology, using his skills to create websites and digital exhibitions that highlighted Eucharistic miracles. His life and work resonated with many, especially among the youth, making him a beloved figure in the Catholic community.
In 2018, Pope Francis proclaimed Acutis venerable, a significant step in the canonization process. His body was later transferred to Assisi, fulfilling his wish to be close to St. Francis, whom he admired greatly. The Vatican recognized a miracle attributed to Acutis in 2020, paving the way for his beatification, which took place shortly thereafter. A second miracle was confirmed on May 23, further solidifying his path to sainthood.
The decision to schedule the canonization during the Jubilee of Adolescents was intentional, as Pope Francis aimed to provide young people with new role models of holiness. The event was expected to be a highlight of the Jubilee, which aims to inspire and engage the youth of the Church.
As the Church now enters a period of sede vacante, or vacancy of the papal seat, the responsibilities of governance will fall to key figures within the Vatican, ensuring that day-to-day operations continue smoothly until a new Pope is elected. This transition period is crucial for the Church, as it prepares for the conclave that will select the next leader of the Catholic faithful.
The suspension of Acutis's canonization is a poignant moment for many who have looked up to him as a model of faith and modern evangelization. His story is one of hope and inspiration, particularly for young people navigating the complexities of faith in a digital age.
Despite the setback, the Jubilee of Adolescents will proceed with its planned activities, including a Mass at St. Peter's Square on April 27, which will still serve as a gathering point for the youth of the Church. Bruni reassured attendees that the spirit of the Jubilee would remain intact, even in the absence of the canonization ceremony.
The legacy of Carlo Acutis continues to inspire many, and while the canonization date may be postponed, his impact on the Church and its younger members is undeniable. With his unique blend of faith and technology, Acutis has become a symbol of modern sainthood, showing that holiness can be found in the most contemporary of contexts.
As the Church mourns the loss of Pope Francis and looks forward to the future, the story of Carlo Acutis reminds us all of the power of faith and the importance of finding new ways to connect with God in today's world. The next Pope will have the opportunity to honor Acutis's memory and legacy by eventually recognizing him as a saint, continuing the journey that began with his remarkable life.
