Vatican confirms second miracle of Carlo Acutis

In the years leading up to December 2024, the Vatican's office responsible for canonization, known as the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, has been preparing to declare Carlo Acutis, a young Catholic from Italy, a saint. Acutis, who gained posthumous fame for his deep faith and devotion to the Eucharist, passed away in 2006 at the age of 15. His life and legacy have resonated with many, particularly the younger generation. Following his death, a concerted effort began for his beatification and eventual canonization, highlighting the modern recognition of saints through documented miracles. In May 2024, significant progress occurred when the medical board of the Dicastery announced that a second miracle attributed to Acutis had been verified. This development came as doctors reported a miraculous recovery for Valeria, a patient who had suffered from severe medical issues including a hemorrhage. Valeria's family had prayed to Acutis for her healing, which seemed to defy medical explanations after doctors had concluded she might not survive. This incident has re-ignited discussions surrounding the intersection of faith and miracles within the Catholic Church. The preparations for Acutis's canonization entail scrutinizing supposed miracles, reaffirming the church's efforts at maintaining control over popular piety while also acknowledging the grassroots movements that celebrate individuals as saints. The practices surrounding the veneration of saints have transformed over time, evolving from community-led recognitions to the formalized processes in place today. This ongoing shift reflects the duality of the church’s approach, balancing official recognition with the heartfelt devotion of the faithful. Despite certain skepticism from the medical community regarding the authenticity of miracles, many believers maintain that miraculous works continue to play a crucial role in the lives of the faithful. The narrative of Carlo Acutis serves not only as a testament to individual faith but also as a reflection of the broader cultural landscape within the Catholic Church, which is increasingly focused on connecting with younger generations in meaningful ways while navigating the complexities of modern spirituality.