Pope Francis approves second miracle for Italian Blessed Carlo Acutis

Canonization of young computer whiz expected soon

A Costa Rican woman's healing attributed to Acutis' intercession

May 23, 2024 - Pope Francis has approved the recognition of a second miracle attributed to Blessed Carlo Acutis, according to the Vatican. The decree was signed on Thursday and allows the young Italian, who died of leukemia at the age of 15 in 2006, the last step toward sainthood. Known as the "Patron Saint of the Internet," Acutis is expected to become the first millennial to be canonized.

The miracle in question occurred in Costa Rica and involved a boy who was suffering from a rare form of pancreatitis. His illness was cured after his mother prayed to Acutis and brought her son to Acutis' burial place in Assisi, Italy. The doctors who treated the boy could not find a scientific explanation for the boy's complete healing.

The recognition and approval of the second miracle allows Pope Francis to set a date for Acutis' canonization. The date has not yet been announced, but it is expected to be sometime in 2025.

Acutis was born in London in 1991, but moved to Italy with his family when he was a young child. He was a gifted computer programmer who, from an early age, used his computer skills to spread the Catholic faith. He is known for several projects, including a website where he chronicled Eucharistic miracles, and a documentary about the Eucharistic Miracle of Lanciano. He was also a skilled soccer player and video-game designer and served as an altar boy.

In his short life, Acutis is credited with performing many miracles, including healing the sick and reviving the dead. He is a popular figure among young people, who see him as a role model for living their faith in the digital age.

The canonization of Carlo Acutis will be a historic event for the Church. It will be the first time a millennial has been raised to the altars, and it will send a powerful message to young people that they can make a difference in the world.