STATEMENT OF ARCHBISHOP NELSON J. PÉREZ REGARDING VATICAN DECREE ATTRIBUTING A SECOND MIRACLE TO THE INTERCESSION OF BLESSED CARLO ACUTIS
My heart was filled with great joy to learn of Pope Francis’ recent decree recognizing another miracle attributed to Blessed Carlo Acutis! This moment is one of celebration, most especially our young people who will soon witness the canonization of the first saint from the Millennial Generation. Given Blessed Carlo’s great passion for the Eucharist, and the current Year of Eucharistic Revival in the Church, this announcement takes on even deeper meaning.
Blessed Carlo is an inspirational role model for children and young adults to become Missionary Disciples for Christ. His example lights the path to encounter the true presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. The transformative and pure love emanating from that encounter has the power to change the world in deeply positive ways. That power and inspiration will fuel the zealous hearts of our young people as they grow into leaders in their communities and our broader society with a burning desire to serve others as Jesus did.
Our local Church was blessed just last fall to host Blessed Carlo’s mother, Antonia Salvano Acutis, who spoke about her son’s love and devotion to Jesus in the Eucharist at our Eucharistic Congress. Her words and reflections filled our hearts with wonder and awe. They still resonate with us as we strive to follow in the footsteps of her son!
Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D.
Archbishop of Philadelphia
