YOUTH MATTERS: Called to be originals like Blessed Carlo Acutis
By Darcy Rogers, Director of Youth Evangelisation
This month our Church will witness the canonisation of our first millennial saint, Carlo Acutis. Carlo is unique in our Church as someone who faced the trials of the technological age and rose above it. He tried his best to stay close to Jesus and the Eucharist.
Our world is increasingly changing, for many this brings anxious or depressive states. With eyes fixed on Jesus, Carlo held a holy confidence as he responded to the unique call God had for his life.
Carlo said, “All people are born as originals but many die photocopies.” How true are these words. In our popular culture people are crying out for authenticity.
Just recently Disney released a new version of ‘Snow White’. Online audiences began to cry out for elements of the original story line, the fairness of Snow White, and the purity of relationships within the story. Even for our secular friends we might call this the desire for original innocence—to be who we were created to be, to reclaim meaning and purpose in our life.
So, what does this call to be original mean this late in our Lenten journey? Is it too late? Of course not. This is a refining period and we have much more reflecting and responding to do with Jesus.
For those feeling the momentum of daily asceticism this Lent, we are so excited for you! We urge you to continue to reclaim and be the original version of yourself, the saint needed for this age.
If you need encouragement to get to the end of this season, here is a tip for you! Look for the little ways you can fast from the things that make you less you.
In humility this may be surrendering or fasting from perfection. Perfection in being all things for all people, at school, work, or home, at the cost of your peace and relationships. Holy God, we pray for the balance to strive for greatness but also to abide in littleness.
You may fast from comparison, towards others, the holiness of saints in the Church, or the future you that you have mapped out. Jesus, we pray to be free from comparison and to be filled with your strength.
Some of us may resonate with being a photocopy, struggling to be who we are not, apathetic in our journey towards the Kingdom of God. Holy Spirit, be our guide as we choose the narrow path in our walk to heaven, to respond to your promptings in family, educational, and work settings.
Carolo Acutis said, “The only thing we have to ask God for, in prayer, is the desire to be Holy”. I pray this month, that with the guidance and intercession of Blessed Carlo, you may love God, others and yourself, and become the saint God knows you can and will be.
Blessed Carlo Acutis, Pray for us.
Peace be with you all.