With a quiet but historic declaration, Pope Leo XIV opened the doors to a canonization that bridges generations — and ignited debate across the globe.
In a historic moment at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV presided over his first Ordinary Public Consistory on Friday morning. The event marked a pivotal point in his pontificate and brought with it an announcement that has stirred global attention.
During the solemn ceremony, Pope Leo XIV and the College of Cardinals gave formal approval for the canonizations of eight Blesseds. Among them were two figures whose lives continue to inspire generations — Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati and Blessed Carlo Acutis.
The Pope declared that both men would be canonized together in Rome on September 7, 2025. This date now stands as a milestone in the Church’s calendar. It will see the canonization of the first saint born in the 21st century — Acutis — alongside Frassati, a figure of early 20th-century Catholic devotion.
The Vatican’s announcement swiftly traveled across social media, generating a wave of reactions. Some posts expressed criticism. “IS THIS A JOKE,” wrote one user. Another commented, “And this is why Reformation was needed.”
Others offered perspectives.“The pope is just a man. Js,” one post noted, while another defended the decision, “Honestly, it’s no different than walking around 2000 years ago spreading the word — just because it’s a different medium doesn’t make his work less meaningful.” Someone else asked, “I don’t get it. What makes him a saint?”
There were more comments like, “I can see the heroic virtue of Frassati, but just what exactly did Acutis do that was heroic ( and designing a website doesn’t make one heroic)?”
Another wrote, “Amen. Blessed Carlo Acutis, please pray and intercede for us—especially, our Youth,” capturing the sentiment of many who see him as a spiritual guide for younger generations.
Others highlighted the significance of his legacy in today’s context. “Carlo Acutis becoming the first millennial saint is a powerful reminder that holiness is possible in the digital age,” read one comment. “His love for the Eucharist and use of tech to spread the faith make him a true role model for today’s youth.”
The road to this dual canonization has not been without its twists. The late Pope Francis first revealed plans to canonize Blesseds Frassati and Acutis during the General Audience on November 20, 2024.
The announcement was met with thunderous applause in St. Peter’s Square, signaling the deep admiration both men command among the faithful. Originally, each canonization was set to align with special events during the Jubilee Year.
Acutis’ canonization was scheduled for April, 27 — Divine Mercy Sunday — coinciding with the Jubilee of Teenagers. Frassati’s was to follow on August, 3 marking the close of the Jubilee for Youth.
However, those plans changed abruptly. On April, 21, the same day Pope Francis passed away, the Vatican announced the postponement of Acutis’ canonization. The delay cast uncertainty over Frassati’s canonization as well, leading many to assume both would be rescheduled indefinitely.
Now, with a new pontificate and a fresh decision from Pope Leo XIV, both young men are set to be canonized together— binding their stories in a single moment of spiritual and historical significance.