By C M Paul

Siliguri, Sept 8, 2025: In a historic and highly anticipated ceremony, Pope Leo XIV canonized two young men, Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati, on September 7, in St. Peter’s Square.

The canonization of these two saints, one from the early 20th century and the other the first of the 21st century, is being hailed as a powerful message of youthful holiness for the modern Church.

Both saints, in their unique ways, offer a vibrant witness to the principles of Salesian spirituality, proving that a life of holiness is not confined to monasteries or heroic acts, but is attainable in the midst of ordinary life.

Models for a digital and disconnected world

In an age often defined by virtual distractions and social isolation, St. Pier Giorgio Frassati reminds us that sainthood blossoms from genuine encounter. From a young age, Pier Giorgio dedicated himself to serving the poor in his native Turin, embodying the Gospel through tangible acts of charity and loving service. For him, evangelization was a matter of presence and solidarity with the suffering, a concept deeply rooted in Don Bosco’s vision of engaging youth in loving service to the marginalized.

Saint Carlo Acutis, often called “the cyber-apostle of the Eucharist,” shows that disciplined, purposeful engagement with technology can be a powerful tool for mission. Rather than succumbing to the digital world’s potential for superficiality, Acutis harnessed his “passion for computers” to create a website cataloguing Eucharistic miracles, making faith accessible and compelling to a global audience.

His approach aligns with the Salesian method of using modern means to spread the Gospel, demonstrating that technology can be a vehicle for evangelization and communion.

Spirituality of Joyful Practice

The lives of both saints resonate with the core tenets of Don Bosco’s vision for youth: joy, practicality, and apostolic zeal.

Pier Giorgio Frassati was known as the “Man of the Beatitudes,” living out the Gospel in his daily life and social engagements with a contagiously joyful spirit. Despite his privileged upbringing, he chose a path of humility and service, regularly practicing Eucharistic Adoration and Marian devotion. His motto, “Verso l’alto” (“To the heights”), became a rallying cry for youthful aspiration rooted in faith and service to others.

Carlo Acutis also gave witness to a serene and radiant Christianity. His spirituality was deeply Eucharistic, calling the Eucharist “the highway to Heaven.” His “kit for becoming a saint” included daily Mass, Holy Communion, the Rosary, and acts of sacrificial love—practical, accessible steps for young people seeking holiness today. Carlo’s deep respect and love for others, especially the marginalized, also echoed Don Bosco’s principle of loving-kindness and practical charity.

In essence, these two saints offer a blueprint for contemporary young people: recover real-life relationships and service, harness technology for constructive evangelization, and pursue authentic happiness rooted in Christ. Their canonization affirms that sainthood is a vibrant, contemporary call to rise above loneliness and passivity and become witnesses of hope in both the virtual and tangible worlds.

Their witness, deeply rooted in the Salesian tradition, is a summons to a new generation to live as good Christians and honest citizens. It is a reminder that true happiness lies in faith, service, and integrity, inviting youth to aim higher and aspire toward greater ideals.