on november 20, 2024, Pope francis today made two relevant announcements for the faithful around the world: the dates of canonization of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati, great examples of
At the conclusion of last Wednesday’s General Audience, the Holy Father announced that carlo Acutis will be proclaimed a saint during the Adolescent Jubilee, which will take place in Rome from April 25 too 27, 2025. In a subsequent statement, the Archbishop of the diocese of Assisi Mons. Domenico Sorrentino, specified that the canonization of Acutis is scheduled for Sunday, April 27 at 10:30 a.m. in the Saint Peter’s Square.
likewise, he reported that Pier Giorgio Frassati will be raised to the altars during the Youth Jubilee, between July 28 and August 3 of next year.
The date of Carlo Acutis’ canonization has been eagerly awaited since Pope Francis approved the miracle attributed to his intercession on May 23: Valeria Valverde, a 21-year-old girl from Costa Rica, miraculously survived a serious bicycle accident.which left him on the verge of death with a very serious head injury.
The man known by manny as “God’s influencer”,whose life and love for the Church and the Eucharist crossed borders,will be raised to the altars on one of the days in which teenagers from all over the world make a pilgrimage to Rome within the framework of the Year Retire.
Carlo Acutis has inspired young people around the world for his deep commitment to faith and his ability to bring the message of Christ to new generations through the internet.
The future “jeans and sneakers” saint died of leukemia on October 12, 2006 and, according to his wish due to his love for Saint Francis, was buried in Assisi. He was declared Venerable in 2018 and Blessed on October 10, 2020.
Young people from all over the world, gathered in Rome next July, will also be able to witness the canonization of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, a young Italian known to many as the “patron saint of mountaineers.”
Frassati, who died at the age of 24 in 1925, is loved by many young Catholics today for his eager testimony of holiness that reaches “to the heights.”
The young man from the northern Italian city of Turin was an avid mountaineer and Third Order Dominican, known for his charitable works. He was declared blessed by Saint john Paul II in 1990.
The miracle attributed to his intercession and for which he will be elevated to the altars has as its protagonist Kevin Becker, a student from the United States who was miraculously healed from a fatal head injury.
What are the key attributes of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati that make them relevant role models for young Catholics today?
Interview: Celebrating the Canonization of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati
Editor of Time.news (T): Welcome to our special feature on the upcoming canonizations of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati. Joining us today is Dr. Maria Rossi, a theologian and expert in modern saints. Thank you for being here, Dr. Rossi.
Dr. Maria Rossi (M): Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such significant events for the Catholic Church and the young faithful around the world.
T: Let’s dive right in. Pope Francis recently announced the canonization dates for Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati. Could you share the importance of these canonizations for young believers?
M: Certainly! The canonization of Carlo Acutis during the Adolescent Jubilee in Rome from April 25 to 27, 2025, is incredibly relevant, especially given that he is known as “God’s influencer.” His ability to connect with youth through technology and the internet speaks volumes about how faith can be contemporary and accessible. Similarly, Pier Giorgio Frassati, canonized during the Youth Jubilee from July 28 to August 3, 2025, serves as a perfect model for young people. his adventurous spirit and commitment to service resonate deeply with today’s youth.
T: What do you think is most inspiring about Carlo Acutis as a role model for today’s youth?
M: Acutis is truly remarkable because he blended his faith with modern tools. His dedication to the Eucharist and using the internet for evangelization showcases how one can engage with faith in current times.His tragic yet gorgeous life story,especially his wish to be buried in Assisi,encapsulates a genuine love for God and his works. He emphasizes that holiness is attainable for everyone, regardless of age.
T: And what about Pier Giorgio Frassati? How does his life inspire today’s young Catholics?
M: Frassati,often referred to as the “patron saint of mountaineers,” epitomizes youthful enthusiasm combined with deep spirituality. His love for the outdoors, coupled with his charitable works, reflects a holistic approach to faith. He didn’t just preach; he lived out his beliefs through action.This connection between physical activity and spiritual growth is especially appealing to today’s youth, who are seeking authentic ways to experience their faith.
T: What can we expect during these canonization ceremonies, especially in terms of attendance and global participation?
M: The canonization ceremonies are expected to draw large crowds, with pilgrims and young people coming from around the world. This global participation signifies the universal nature of the Church and the shared desire for inspiration from these two saints. The events will likely feature a vibrant atmosphere of prayer, reflection, and festivity, highlighting the enduring relevance of both Acutis and Frassati.
T: Dr. Rossi, can you elaborate on the miracles attributed to each saint that played a role in their canonizations?
M: Absolutely. For Carlo Acutis, the miracle involved Valeria Valverde, a young woman from Costa rica, who miraculously survived a serious bicycle accident. This event showcases Acutis’s intercessory power and underscores the belief that he remains active in the lives of the faithful. Meanwhile, the miracle attributed to Pier Giorgio Frassati involves Kevin Becker, a student in the united States, who experienced miraculous healing from a severe head injury. Both miracles reinforce the idea that these saints continue to influence and advocate for young people today.
T: As we wrap up, what practical advice would you give to our readers, especially young Catholics, regarding the impact of these canonizations on their faith lives?
M: I encourage young Catholics to learn more about the lives of Acutis and Frassati and to use their stories as a source of inspiration. Engage with your faith community, use modern tools like social media to share your beliefs, and strive to embody the virtues these saints practiced—service, joy, and a deep commitment to God. Attend the canonization ceremonies if possible, or participate virtually, and embrace the spirit of these two incredible young saints who remind us that holiness can thrive in today’s world.
T: Thank you, Dr.Rossi, for sharing your insights. The canonizations of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio frassati are sure to inspire a new generation of believers.
M: thank you for having me! It’s an exciting time for the Church and its youth.