On 7 September 2025, the Church will celebrate a moment of great joy as Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati are canonised by Pope Leo XIV in St Peter’s Square.
Carlo, often called the “cyber-apostle of the Eucharist,” was a teenager from Milan who used his love of technology to spread devotion to Christ present in the Blessed Sacrament. His deep Eucharistic faith and ordinary yet holy way of living have inspired countless young people around the world.
Pier Giorgio Frassati, who died in 1925 at the age of 24 after contracting polio, is remembered for his zest for life, generosity to the poor, and devotion to prayer. Nicknamed “the man of the Beatitudes” by St John Paul II, he is a model of faith-filled action in the world.
This canonisation, originally scheduled for April 27, was postponed following the death of Pope Francis on April 21. In announcing the new date, Pope Leo XIV highlighted how these two young Italians—one from the early 20th century, the other from our own time—demonstrate that holiness is possible in every age and circumstance.
As we approach 7 September, our Diocese unites with the universal Church in prayer and thanksgiving. Carlo and Pier Giorgio, two luminous witnesses of youthful holiness, remind us that sanctity is not reserved for a few but is a call for all the baptised.
May their example encourage our young people to live their faith with courage, joy, and love for Christ.
Did You Know?
Blessed Carlo Acutis (1991–2006)
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Born in London, grew up in Milan
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Loved computers and gaming, but above all the Eucharist
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Created an online exhibition of Eucharistic miracles
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Died of leukemia at age 15
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Called the “cyber-apostle of the Eucharist”
Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati (1901–1925)
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Born in Turin, Italy
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Student, mountain climber, and lover of the outdoors
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Tirelessly served the poor and sick of his city
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Member of Catholic Action and the Dominican lay order
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Died of polio at age 24, known as “the man of the Beatitudes”
Prayer in Preparation for the Canonisation of Carlo Acutis & Pier Giorgio Frassati
Loving Father,
You call your sons and daughters to holiness in every time and place.
We thank you for the shining witness of Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, who lived with joy, courage, and love for Christ.
Through their example, inspire us to place the Eucharist at the heart of our lives, to serve the poor with generosity, and to live our faith with youthful zeal.
Grant that, through their prayers, our families and communities may grow in holiness.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, pray for us!
