Blessed Carlo Acutis commemorated in Assisi

By Lisa Zengarini

As the Church prepares to mark the feast day of Blessed Carlo Acutis, on 10 October,  the ‘Shrine of the Renunciation’ Foundation in Assisi has organized a series of events from 8-12 October, including the inauguration of a soup kitchen dedicated to his name.

First Millennial to be beatified by the Catholic Church

Blessed Carlo Acutis was raised to the altars in the city of St. Francis and St. Clare on 10 October 2020, making him the first Millennial to be beatified by the Catholic Church. The Italian teenager died of leukemia at the age of 15 in 2006.

In his short but extraordinary life, he was nourished by his devotion to the Eucharist and to the Virgin Mary, and frequent Confession.

A model of holiness for young people

In several occasions Pope Francis has said that Blessed Carlo Acutis is a model of holiness for young people. He again cited his example on Friday as he addressed participants at a three-day symposium organized in the Vatican by the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints on "Holiness Today". 

His story has captivated the interest of many faithful across the globe, as confirmed by Fr. Carlos Acácio Gonçalves Ferreira Ofm. Cap, Rector of the Shrine of the Renunciation of Assisi, where his remains rest.

“It is incredible to see how many families, young people, pilgrims from all over the world come here to learn more about Carlo’s life,” the Capuchin priest said. “His 'normality' attracts and is an example for many."

Presentation of the book "The Secret of My Son"

This normal life of a modern teenager with a passion for football, who used his computer skills to encourage people to approach the Eucharist, is recounted first-hand in the book “Il segreto di mio figlio “ (“The Secret of Son”) written by his mother Antonia Salzano, who herself was re-converted to the Catholic faith by Carlo.

The book will be presented on Saturday evening as part of the five-day events in Assisi, which include Masses, recitations of the Rosary, Eucharistic Adorations, and catechesis, as well as cultural events.

Among the highlights of the programme. a Eucharistic Adoration on Saturday evening  titled  "My Highway to Heaven", inspired by what Blessed Carlo Acutis used to say referring the the Eucharist.

Inauguration of "Blessed Carlo Acutis" soup kitchen in Assisi

On Monday morning, a soup kitchen for people in need and pilgrims will be inagurated in the historic center of Assisi. The kitchen will operate in synergy with the 'Casa Papa Francesco' shelter in the neighbourhood of the Santa Maria degli Angeli Basilica.

Also featuring in the programme is a conference, on 11 October,  themed ‘Internet: Make the Difference’ (‘Internet: fai tu la differenza’) in which a new app of the Shrine of the Renunciation will be launched.

The five-day celebration will close on Wednesday evening with a Mass presided over by the Bishop of Assisi Domenico Sorrentino and a concert 

All the events can be followed on-line on the website and social media of the del Shrine of the Renunciation and of the diocese.