Yesterday, I joined Catholics around the world in celebrating the canonization of Saints Pier Giorgio Frassati and Carlo Acutis. It was inspiring to see the Church — and even secular media — shine a spotlight on their holiness. Carlo, known affectionately as “God’s Influencer,” is already touching lives far beyond Catholic spaces.

Why These Two Saints Inspire Me

I first encountered both Pier Giorgio and Carlo back in 2017 while preparing a talk for my Campus Ministry. Their stories stayed with me because they weren’t just holy — they were relatable. They lived in their own times with joy, humor, and struggle, but always kept Christ at the center.

• St. Pier Giorgio Frassati (1901–1925): He loved mountain climbing, practical jokes, and his friends, but his life was ordered around prayer, service to the poor, and devotion to the Eucharist. His motto “Verso l’alto” — to the heights — challenges us to strive for holiness in everyday life.
• St. Carlo Acutis (1991–2006): A millennial saint who loved computers, coding, and soccer, Carlo shows us how to live authentically in the digital age. He created a website cataloging Eucharistic miracles and reminds us to use technology for good while keeping the Eucharist at the center of life.

What They’ve Taught Me

Both saints have shown me:

• The redemptive power of suffering — turning pain into prayer.
• The importance of the Eucharist — their love for Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament inspires me to approach the altar with more reverence.
• Service without spotlight — both ministered to the poor humbly, showing Christ through action more than words.
• Love for Mary — they turned to her in times of peace and struggle, teaching me to do the same.

Personally, I know St. Carlo has interceded for me in my computer science studies. As I discern whether university is the right path for me, I’ve also turned to St. Pier Giorgio’s example of courage and clarity.

A Question for You

How have St. Carlo Acutis or St. Pier Giorgio Frassati interceded in your life? Share your reflections in the comments below — I’d love to hear your stories.