Carlo Acutis: A modern inspiration for the youth of Goa

In an era dominated by technology, the announcement of Carlo Acutis’ impending canonisation brings a breath of fresh air and a beacon of hope, especially for the youth.

This modern-day saint, soon to be the first ‘millennial saint’, offers a compelling example of how holiness and contemporary life can coexist harmoniously.

For the youth in Goa, a region with a rich Catholic heritage, Acutis’ life story and his upcoming sainthood present an extraordinary source of inspiration to live holy lives.

A BRIEF LIFE OF HOLINESS

Carlo Acutis, born in London, United Kingdom on May 3, 1991, and raised in Milan, Italy, lived a remarkably devout life before his untimely death from leukaemia at the age of 15.

Despite his brief time on Earth, Acutis made a lasting impact through his deep devotion to Christ and the Eucharist. His creation of a digital database of Eucharistic miracles stands as a testament to his commitment to his faith using modern tools.

For the youth in Goa, Carlo Acutis’ life story resonates deeply. Much like Goa, a region where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly, Acutis exemplified how one can engage with contemporary culture while staying rooted in faith.

His ability to balance his spiritual life with typical teenage interests, like video games, soccer and music, offers a relatable model for Goan youngsters striving to navigate their faith in today's fast-paced world.

SAINT FOR THE DIGITAL AGE

Acutis' adept use of technology to evangelise sets him apart from many traditional saints. His creation of a comprehensive website, documenting Eucharistic miracles globally, shows how digital platforms can be powerful tools for spiritual education and connection.

In Goa, where internet penetration is high and young people are increasingly tech-savvy, Acutis’ approach provides a practical example of how faith can be integrated into the digital realm.

This is particularly relevant in the context of Goa's vibrant youth community, which is keenly engaged with technology and social media.

By following in Acutis' footsteps, Goan youth can find innovative ways to express and share their faith, thus ensuring that faith teachings remain relevant and accessible in the digital age.

His life underscores that sainthood is attainable for everyone, even those who spend much of their day in front of a screen.

HOLINESS IN EVERYDAY LIFE

Carlo Acutis demonstrated that holiness is not reserved for extraordinary circumstances, but can be pursued in everyday life. He attended mass daily, recited the rosary and volunteered at a church soup kitchen, all while being an ordinary teenager.

This blend of the ordinary and the extraordinary is particularly inspirational for the youth in Goa, who often juggle academic pressures, extracurricular activities and social lives.

In a region, known for its festive spirit and communal activities, Acutis' example encourages young Goans to find sanctity in their daily routines.

Whether it's through participating in church/temple/mosque activities, helping those in need, or simply being kind and compassionate in their interactions, the youth can emulate Acutis by weaving acts of faith and service into their everyday lives.

PATRON FOR MODERN YOUTH

Bishop Robert E Barron of Winona-Rochester, USA, aptly described Carlo Acutis as an inspiration and intercessor for all young people. His life serves as a clear reference point, illustrating that a joy-filled and creative mission is possible.

For the youth in Goa, who are part of a rapidly changing social landscape, Acutis' story is a potent reminder that faith can provide stability and purpose.

The Malvern Retreat Center in Pennsylvania, USA, which houses a shrine dedicated to Acutis, highlights how his legacy continues to inspire.

The centre's efforts to attain diocesan shrine status and its permanent exhibits on Eucharistic miracles serve as focal points for spiritual reflection and growth.

Similar initiatives could be developed in Goa, providing spaces where young people can learn about, and draw inspiration from, Acutis' life.

IMPORTANCE OF ROLE MODELS

Role models, like Carlo Acutis, are crucial for the spiritual development of young people. His life shows that sainthood is not a distant, unattainable goal, but a journey that anyone can embark upon, regardless of age or background.

His normal teenage attire — blue jeans, sneakers and a backpack — makes him a relatable figure for the youth. This relatability helps dismantle the notion that holiness is out of reach, reinforcing that it is a realistic and desirable path.

In Goa, Acutis' example can motivate young people to aspire to greater spiritual heights. His canonisation could spur initiatives in schools and youth groups across the state, encouraging the incorporation of his life and works into their programs.

MESSAGE OF HOPE

The story of Carlo Acutis is fundamentally a message of hope. It tells the youth that despite the challenges and distractions of modern life, a deep and fulfilling relationship with God is possible.

His impending canonisation reinforces that sainthood is not about perfection, but about striving to live a life of faith, love and service.

For the youth in Goa, this message is particularly resonant. As they navigate the complexities of modern life, Acutis' example offers a guiding light, showing that faith can provide direction and meaning.

His life encourages all of us to dream big, to use our talents for the greater good, and to see our ordinary lives as the arena for extraordinary holiness.

Carlo Acutis' journey to sainthood is a powerful inspiration for everyone. His seamless blend of modern interests and deep faith provides a model for how young people can live holy lives in today’s world.

As his canonisation approaches, Acutis' legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and guide young Catholics in Goa and around the world, reminding them that sainthood is within everyone's reach and that a life of holiness is not only possible, but profoundly fulfilling.