Vatican postpones canonisation of Carlo Acutis after death of Pope Francis

The scheduled canonisation of Carlo Acutis, known as "God's Influencer," has been delayed after the passing of Pope Francis, the Vatican announced.

Souvenirs featuring images of Blessed Carlo Acutis, an adolescent known for spreading his faith online and earning the title "God's Influencer," are displayed in a shop in Assisi, where Acutis is honored, on April 3, 2025. Photo by Tiziana Fabi/AFP

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

The much-anticipated canonisation of Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint, has been delayed indefinitely following the death of Pope Francis, the Vatican confirmed on Monday. Acutis, a teenager whose life was marked by faith and a passion for using the internet to promote Catholicism, was set to be formally recognised as a saint in a ceremony at the Holy See on April 27, 2025.

The Vatican’s announcement, which came just days before the scheduled event, stated, "Following the death of the Sovereign Pontiff Francis, we inform you that the Eucharistic Celebration and Rite of Canonization of Blessed Carlo Acutis... has been postponed." The brief statement left no indication as to when the canonisation would be rescheduled, leaving many Catholics awaiting further details.

Carlo Acutis: The first millennial saint

Born in London to Italian parents on May 3, 1991, Carlo Acutis was destined to become a symbol of faith in the digital age. Though raised in Milan, he spent significant time in Assisi, a city famous for its connection to St. Francis, where he eventually passed away in 2006 after battling leukaemia at the tender age of 15. Despite his youth, Acutis’ influence on the Catholic Church has been profound, particularly due to his innovative use of technology to spread the message of Christ.

Acutis was a trailblazer in the realm of faith and technology. Dubbed "God’s Influencer" and the "Cyber Apostle," he is best remembered for creating a website that catalogued Eucharistic miracles around the world, making them accessible to Catholics online. His dedication to both technology and religion made him an icon of the modern Catholic faith. Acutis believed that the internet could be a tool for evangelisation, a message that resonated with many in the Church looking to modernise their approach to outreach.

Faith beyond tradition

Though Carlo came from a family that was financially well-off and not particularly devout, his personal faith was remarkable. His parents, who did not regularly practice Catholicism, were nevertheless supportive of his religious fervour. From a young age, Carlo exhibited a deep connection to his faith, attending daily Mass, and devoting much of his free time to prayer and charitable work. His strong devotion to the Eucharist, coupled with his selfless spirit, made him a living example of the Catholic virtues of humility and service.

While his family was not religiously observant, Carlo’s dedication to the faith was unwavering, even in the face of terminal illness. His spiritual maturity during his final months inspired many, as he remained steadfast in his belief, often offering words of comfort and encouragement to those around him.

A saint for the digital age

Carlo Acutis’ devotion to the Catholic Church extended far beyond the traditional practices of his time. With an interest in technology from a young age, he managed to bridge the gap between the modern world and the teachings of Christ, making him one of the most influential figures in recent Catholic history. His online project dedicated to Eucharistic miracles demonstrated his understanding of how technology could serve as a tool for spiritual growth and education.

Acutis’ canonisation was to be the culmination of years of recognition of his faith and works. He was beatified in 2020, just 14 years after his death, a rapid process that has sparked admiration from many within the Church. His beatification was the first step in officially recognising him as a saint, and his canonisation was expected to cement his place as a symbol of youthful piety, digital engagement, and the future of Catholic evangelism.

The impact of Pope Francis’ death on the Church

The postponement of Carlo Acutis’ canonisation ceremony comes in the wake of the death of Pope Francis, who passed away earlier this month after battling prolonged health issues. The Vatican has not yet provided a new date for the ceremony, which was expected to be a major event for the Church, particularly in light of Acutis’ digital legacy. The death of Pope Francis has left many wondering how the Vatican will proceed with significant Church events, including other planned canonisations and papal duties.

Pope Francis’ death marks the end of a transformative papacy that sought to modernise the Church and bring it closer to the people. Under his leadership, the Catholic Church emphasised mercy, compassion, and outreach, values that resonated deeply with figures like Acutis. Acutis’ canonisation was seen by many as a fitting tribute to the pope’s emphasis on adapting the faith for contemporary times.

Awaiting the future of the Church and Acutis’ legacy

As the Church processes the loss of Pope Francis and plans for the future, the faithful remain hopeful that Acutis’ canonisation will take place at a time of renewal and reflection. The saint’s use of the internet to promote faith is particularly relevant in today’s world, where technology continues to reshape how people engage with religion and spirituality. Acutis’ story will undoubtedly continue to inspire those who see technology not as a hindrance, but as a tool to bring people closer to God.

As the Vatican contemplates the next steps for the Church, including a new papal election, many will remember Pope Francis for his role in recognising and honouring figures like Carlo Acutis. His death may have delayed this milestone in Acutis’ canonisation, but it is clear that the young Italian’s legacy will endure, shaping the Church’s path into the digital future.

Carlo Acutis’ life of faith continues to inspire

Carlo Acutis' journey from a young, faith-filled boy to a beloved figure in the Church exemplifies the modern Catholic path. With his life cut tragically short, his impact has only grown, especially among younger generations seeking to bridge the gap between faith and technology. The Church now finds itself at a pivotal moment as it reflects on its future leadership and the lasting influence of figures like Acutis.

Though the canonisation of Carlo Acutis has been postponed, the Church is already looking to the future. The first millennial saint’s legacy remains a powerful testament to the potential for faith and technology to work in harmony, leaving an indelible mark on both the Catholic Church and the digital world.