(ZENIT News / Vatican City, 11.20.2024).- In a remarkable announcement during the general audience on November 20, Pope Francis revealed plans to canonize two beloved figures of modern Catholicism, Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati. These two young role models, celebrated for their faith and service, will be elevated to sainthood during events tied to the Holy Year 2025. The announcement was met with thunderous applause from thousands gathered in a rainy St. Peter’s Square, underscoring the profound global resonance of their stories.
Celebration of Youthful Holiness
The canonizations will spotlight the vitality of youth within the Church. Carlo Acutis, often called the «influencer of holiness,» will be canonized during the “Teenagers’ Jubilee” from April 25 to 27. Known for his deep love of the Eucharist and expertise in computer science, the young Italian left a legacy of faith expressed in modern ways.
Pier Giorgio Frassati, a Turin-born student, alpinist, and advocate for the poor, will follow during the “Youth Jubilee” from July 28 to August 3. Often referred to as the «man of the Beatitudes,» Frassati lived a life rooted in prayer, service, and joy—a testament to faith as an adventure. His canonization comes a century after his death, continuing to inspire generations to live with courage and compassion.
A Day for the Children of the World
The announcement coincided with the International Day for the Rights of the Child, where Pope Francis also introduced a major upcoming event: the “World Meeting on Children’s Rights”. Scheduled for February 3 in Vatican City, the gathering will bring together experts, activists, and global leaders to address the plight of children suffering from war, exploitation, and neglect.
In a touching moment during the audience, children in yellow caps, representing various Catholic schools and peace organizations, rushed to greet the Pope on the basilica’s steps. Their joyful interaction underscored the urgency of protecting young lives. «The future of the world lies with the smallest among us,» the Pope remarked, highlighting the Church’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding the dignity of every child.
Holiness in Action: The Lives of Acutis and Frassati
Carlo Acutis, who passed away in 2006 at just 15, gained widespread recognition for creating an online catalog of Eucharistic miracles. His bishop in Assisi, Domenico Sorrentino, called him “a ray of light for young people” and noted the providential timing of his canonization during the Jubilee, which celebrates renewal and hope.
Pier Giorgio Frassati, who died at 24 in 1925, left a legacy of service that resonated deeply even in his short life. A member of Catholic Action and other faith-based groups, he balanced rigorous spiritual devotion with an adventurous spirit. Saint John Paul II, who beatified him in 1990, described him as a model for those striving to integrate faith and action.
Resonating with the Modern World
The Church views these two saints as bridges to contemporary youth. Acutis and Frassati exemplify a faith that is not confined to the past but thrives in digital innovation and social responsibility. Their canonizations aim to inspire young Catholics to see holiness as accessible and relevant.
In a statement, Catholic Action Italy celebrated Frassati’s legacy, emphasizing his ability to counter apathy with a life of dynamic engagement. “His rule of life, ‘to get involved,’ is a call against indifference—a way to connect with the world through faith and action,” the group wrote.
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