Cardinal Fernández Seeks Reconciliation as Carlo Acutis' Canonization Announced Amid Controversies

Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández is making efforts to reconcile with the Coptic Orthodox Church, while the Vatican announces the canonization of Blessed Carlo Acutis. The announcement comes amid controversies in Arlington, Texas, and Florida, and a statement from the bishops of England and Wales on moral voting in national elections.

Pope Francis has approved a miracle attributed to the intercession of Blessed Carlo Acutis, paving the way for his canonization. Acutis, a 15-year-old Italian teenager who died of cancer in 2006, is set to become the first Millennial saint. The miracle involves the healing of 21-year-old Valeria Valverde from Costa Rica, who suffered a severe head injury in a bicycle accident in Florence in 2022. After her mother prayed at Acutis' tomb in Assisi, Valeria began to breathe on her own and eventually recovered fully.

Why this matters: The canonization of Carlo Acutis and Cardinal Fernández's efforts to reconcile with the Coptic Orthodox Church have significant implications for the Catholic Church's global influence and internal dynamics. The outcome of these events could shape the Church's relationships with other Christian denominations and its approach to addressing controversies and moral issues.

Born in 1991, Acutis was a devout Catholic with a deep love for the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. He attended daily Mass and sought to spread awareness of Eucharistic miracles, creating an exhibition displayed in thousands of parishes worldwide. Acutis once said, "To always be united to Jesus: this is my life plan." Archbishop Domenico Sorrentino of Assisi welcomed the news, stating, "The Church in Assisi is in celebration... May the Lord continue his work through the witness of Blessed Carlo."

The canonization process, which includes the role of the 'promoter of the faith,' has undergone significant reforms since 1984. Pope John Paul II introduced changes to make the process more historic and less legalistic. The promoter, similar to a prosecutor, prepares arguments against canonization to uncover any defects or missing documentation. The reforms also introduced 'relators,' who prepare the cause, identifying difficulties and highlighting positive aspects of a candidate.

The Vatican celebrates Acutis' upcoming canonization, and Cardinal Fernández's efforts to mend relations with the Coptic Orthodox Church are also noteworthy. These actions come at a time when the Catholic Church faces controversies in Arlington, Texas, and Florida. Additionally, the bishops of England and Wales have issued a statement urging moral voting in the national elections, emphasizing the importance of ethical considerations in political decisions.

The convergence of these events highlights the dynamic nature of the Catholic Church's global influence and internal challenges. The canonization of Carlo Acutis, a modern figure who embraced technology and faith, offers a source of inspiration for the younger generation.

Key Takeaways

• Pope Francis approves miracle, paving way for Carlo Acutis' canonization.
• Acutis, 15, to become first Millennial saint, known for Eucharistic miracles.
• Cardinal Fernández seeks reconciliation with Coptic Orthodox Church.
• Vatican celebrates Acutis' canonization amid controversies in US and UK.
• Acutis' story inspires younger generation, highlighting faith and technology.