In a momentous announcement, Pope Francis has approved several new decrees for canonization, bringing exciting news for Catholics worldwide. Among these, the recognition of a miracle attributed to Blessed Carlo Acutis, the "Millennial Saint," has captured the hearts of young believers everywhere.
The Modern Miracle of Blessed Carlo Acutis
Blessed Carlo Acutis, born on May 3, 1991, in London, England, was a tech-savvy teen with a deep faith. He passed away on October 12, 2006, in Monza, Italy, from leukemia at just 15 years old. Renowned for his devotion to the Eucharist and pioneering efforts in using the internet to evangelize, Carlo was beatified in 2020 in Assisi, where he made numerous pilgrimages and now rests.
The latest miracle involves a miraculous recovery in Costa Rica. On July 2, 2022, Valeria suffered severe head trauma from a bicycle accident in Florence, Italy. Facing a grim prognosis, her mother, Liliana, prayed fervently at Carlo’s tomb in Assisi on July 8, leaving a heartfelt letter. Amazingly, that very day, Valeria began to breathe independently, and soon after, she started to move and speak. By July 18, her brain hemorrhage had disappeared, and by September 2, mother and daughter returned to Assisi to thank Carlo for his intercession.
Other Miracles and Heroic Virtues Recognized
In addition to Blessed Carlo Acutis, Pope Francis recognized several other miracles and acts of martyrdom:
Blessed Giuseppe Allamano (1851-1926): The Italian founder of the Consolata Missionaries. His miracle involved the astonishing recovery of Sorino Yanomami, an indigenous man from Cape Verde, after a jaguar attack in the Amazon, following prayers to Allamano.Venerable Giovanni Merlini (1795-1873): An Italian priest known for his dedication to the Missionaries of the Most Precious Blood, credited with a miraculous healing.
Martyrs Honored
Servant of God Stanislav Kostka Streich (1902-1938): A Polish priest martyred by communists for his unwavering faith.Servant of God Mária Magdolna Bódi (1921-1945): A Hungarian laywoman who also faced martyrdom under communist oppression.
Acknowledgment of Heroic Virtues
Guglielmo Gattiani (1914-1999): An Italian Capuchin priest celebrated for his virtuous life.Ismaele Molinero Novillo (1917-1938): A Spanish layman known for his devotion and sacrifices.
Ismaele Molinero Novillo (1911-1974): An Italian layman remembered for his exemplary faith and dedication.
Pope Francis also moved forward with the canonization of Blessed Emanuele Ruiz, his seven companions from the Order of Friars Minor, and three lay faithful from Damascus, who were martyred in 1860.
What’s Next?
Pope Francis will convene a Consistory of Cardinals to discuss the canonization of these blessed individuals. This significant step highlights the timeless nature of faith and the modern miracles that continue to inspire believers worldwide.