Blessed Carlo Acutis was a young boy from Italy who loved video games, such as Super Mario and Pokémon—but he loved Jesus in the Eucharist even more. At just seven years old, he said, “To be always united with Jesus, this is my life plan.”

Carlo was kind, smart, and full of faith. He taught himself how to use computers and created websites to help people learn about Eucharistic miracles, grow closer to God, and live richer, more meaningful lives. He truly believed the Eucharist and Jesus’ real presence within was his “highway to heaven.”

At age 15, Carlo became very sick with leukaemia. He offered his suffering to God for the Pope and the Church. He died in 2006, and in 2020 was declared Blessed—one step away from sainthood. His canonisation is scheduled for 7 September, just weeks away.

At Good Shepherd, we walk together as a faith community, encouraging our students to be the difference the world needs by living Gospel values that include compassion, kindness, forgiveness, love, peace, justice, and integrity.

Jesus teaches us to reach out with love, be patient, and offer hope to those who feel lost or alone. When we anchor our lives in God and follow Jesus’ example, we become a light for others.

Carlo lived this way. Even while suffering, he was brave, trusted God, and shared his love for the Eucharist. He helped others discover that God is always close, especially in the Blessed Sacrament. Carlo’s life reminds us that holiness is possible at any age, and that by simply being yourself and helping others connect with God, you become the hope the world needs.

Young, tech-savvy, and deeply faithful, Blessed Carlo Acutis is a relatable and inspiring role model—especially for children and young people today.

Home Time Family Activity

You might like to complete the following activity at home, together as a family:

On a large sheet of paper, draw a big net across the page. Inside the net, write or draw ways your family can live out Gospel values this week—especially by helping others feel welcome, supported, and loved.

Inside the net write or draw ways your family can live like Jesus and Blessed Carlo this fortnight. For example:

• show kindness to someone who feels left out
• be brave and speak up for someone who needs help
• share something that brings hope (a prayer, a smile, a kind word)
• trust God when things feel hard or confusing
• talk about the Eucharist and what it means to you

As we wait in joyful anticipation of the scheduled canonisation, let us pray together:

Dear God, You call us to be brave, to trust You, and to share Your love with others. Help our family to live with kindness and courage, to notice those who need hope, and to be a light in the lives of others.

May we follow Jesus’ example and be inspired by Blessed Carlo Acutis, who showed that faith can be joyful, simple, and strong. Guide us to live with purpose, anchored in Your love and open to Your presence— especially in the Eucharist.

Amen.