In a world dominated by technological advancement, consumerism and moral relativism, Blessed Carlo Acutis is a radical and countercultural figure. Diagnosed with M3-type leukemia at just 15, Carlo accepted his illness with peace, saying, “The Lord has given me a wake-up call!” His short life has made a profound impact, offering, above all, five key challenges to prevailing secular ideas in our culture.
1. Affirming human dignity in a technological world
Carlo’s deep respect for human dignity stands in stark contrast to a culture that often reduces people to data points. His compassion for the marginalized is evident in his encounters with the homeless in Milan. He once saved money to buy a homeless person a sleeping bag and regularly offered the homeless he encountered kind words. “What really counts in life is the nobility of soul or the manner in which we love God and neighbor … all men and women are created by God,” Carlo would say. He treated all people with equal dignity, regardless of their social status, a lesson for a world that increasingly values productivity over the person.
2. Preserving individuality
Carlo was known for his love of computer science and his expertise in programming, but he never allowed technology to dominate his life or define his identity. He warned against the dangers of conformity, saying, “Everyone is born as an original, but many people end up dying as photocopies.” In a time when digital footprints and online personas can overshadow our true selves, Carlo’s words remind us of the importance of authenticity, above all, to our identity as children of God. His message is a call to use technology wisely, preserving our unique identities in a culture of constant digital exposure.
3. Defending absolute truth against moral relativism
Amid a society that often promotes relativism, Carlo held firmly to his Catholic beliefs, even when they made him unpopular among his peers. He was unafraid to speak out in defense of the dignity of life, even on issues like abortion, which he saw as contrary to God’s plan. “If God possesses our hearts, then we will possess the Infinite,” Carlo once said, emphasizing that a relationship with God offers clarity in an age marked by confusion. His unwavering stance on moral truth challenges the modern tendency to compromise on ethical standards for the sake of social acceptance.
4. Offering a loving witness
Carlo’s life testifies to the value of genuine human relationships. While he enjoyed making amateur films and was active online, he understood that technology should not replace real connections. His friendship with Rajesh, a family helper, exemplifies this. Carlo’s influence led Rajesh, a Hindu, to embrace Christianity. “Carlo taught me how to live the Christian life authentically,” Rajesh recalls. Carlo’s story encourages us to prioritize face-to-face interactions over virtual ones, building community through shared experiences and personal presence.
5. Prioritizing spiritual depth in a distracted world
Today technology often distracts from prayer and nurturing the spiritual life. “Our ultimate goal must be the Infinite and not the finite,” Carlo insisted. Carlo’s spirituality, grounded in daily Mass and prayer, challenges the contemporary struggle to find time for reflection amidst the noise of social media and digital distractions. He deeply believed in the transformative power of receiving holy Communion daily, saying, “The Eucharist is my highway to heaven.” His example invites us to seek deeper meaning beyond screens and notifications, reminding us that true fulfillment comes from a relationship with God.
A lasting legacy
Carlo Acutis’ beatification in 2020 celebrated a young life that continues to inspire. His example calls us to re-evaluate the way we engage with technology, treat others and pursue truth. In a culture often focused on the superficial, Carlo’s life serves as a reminder of the deeper realities that truly matter. As he once said, “I am dying peacefully because I have lived my life without wasting a single minute of it in things that displease God.” His challenge to us is clear: to live authentically, love generously and always seek the Infinite.