15-year-old “Computer genius” on the path to Sainthood
 
Carlo Acutis died at the age of 15 in 2006 after a battle with Leukemia.  A normal teenager, Carlo was gifted at anything related to computers - so much so, that those with computer engineering degrees considered him a genius.  Carlo’s interests included computer programming, film editing, building websites, and gaming.  He also spent much of his time volunteering with those most in need.
 
Although his life on earth was brief, those who knew him recognized in him a deep admiration of the Catholic faith.  Since the time he received his First Communion at age 7, he never missed Mass, attending even daily Mass during the week.  He always tried before or after the Mass to pray in front of the tabernacle to worship the Lord, truly present in the Blessed Sacrament.  Our Blessed Mother Mary was his great confidant and he never failed to honour her daily by praying the Rosary.
 
He amazed those near his deathbed, by offering his sufferings for the benefit of the Church and for the Pope.
 
The Medical Council of the Congregation for Causes of Saints has approved a miracle attributed to the intercession of young Carlo Acutis, who healed a gravely ill boy in Brazil.  He was declared “Venerable” in 2018 (the first step to becoming a Saint).

While known for his skills and interest in technology, one of Carlo’s most significant computer ventures was cataloguing all the Eucharistic miracles of the world. He started the project when he was 11 years old and wrote at the time, “The more Eucharist we receive, the more we will become like Jesus, so that on this earth we will have a foretaste of Heaven.”

Earlier this year, it was discovered that Carlo’s body was found to be incorrupt (that is has not decomposed after his death).

On October 10, 2020, Carlo will be “Beatified” (the second and final step before being officially declared a Saint of the Church).

His example of a normal teenager who loved Jesus, appreciated and adored the Eucharist, and lived his life to the fullest, is a great example for teenagers, young people and all the Catholic faithful. 

Pray for his intercession to help you love Jesus and the Eucharist more and more each day!