“We grant that the Venerable Servant of God Carlos Acutis, a layman, who, with the enthusiasm of his youth, cultivated friendship with the Lord Jesus, from now on be called Blessed and that he be celebrated every year on October 12, the day of his birth. to heaven ”: this was the formula read by Cardinal Vallini, who presided at the beatification mass of Carlos Acutis.
Assisi
Not even the pandemic and its restrictions were able to overshadow one of the most anticipated ecclesial events this year: the beatification of Carlos Acutis.
The upper Basilica of San Francisco, in Assisi, could contain a few hundred people, but the mass was followed live on screens installed outside the church and by millions of believers worldwide through social networks.
At the beginning, in the presence of the parents – Andrea and Antonia – and two brothers of the young man, a brief biography of the new Blessed was read and the President of the celebration and Pontifical Representative – Cardinal-Vicar of the Pope for the Diocese of Rome, Agostino Vallini – read Pope Francis’ letter with the beatification formula:
“We grant that the Venerable Servant of God Carlo Acutis, a layman, who, with the enthusiasm of his youth, cultivated friendship with the Lord Jesus, placing the Eucharist and the witness of charity at the center of his own life, from now on be called Blessed and that it be celebrated every year in the places and according to the rules established by the law, on October 12th, the day of his birth in heaven. ”
Prayer and mission
Then, under warm applause, the image of the blessed was revealed, while a relic was carried in procession to the altar.
In his homily, Cardinal Vallini reflected on the moments of a short but intense existence.
“The question spontaneously arises: what was special about this young man, just fifteen years old? He had a gift for attracting and was seen as an example. Since he was a child, he felt the need for faith and had his eyes turned to Jesus “, said the cardinal.
Jesus was a friend, teacher and savior to him, he was the strength of his life and the purpose of everything he did, including on the internet.
