Pope Francis said he will canonize Carlo Acutis next April, setting the eagerly awaited date for the late teenager to become the Catholic Church’s first millennial and digital saint.
A nun with lightsabers. 100 priests hearing confession. Spontaneous song. Prayers over pizza. Toddlers at Mass. The Eucharistic Congress is chaotic, loud, fun—and glorious.
U.S. bishops met for a plenary assembly to discuss various topics including mental health, poverty and youth ministry, as well as hearing proposals from the National Review Board on how to combat sex abuse in the church.
With the event, the pope hoped to raise awareness about children’s plight in war, promote global peace, care for the environment and empower the younger generation.
The U.S. Catholic bishops’ latest annual report on child and youth protection shows abuse allegations are down, while safe environment protocols have taken root in the church—but guarding against complacency about abuse prevention is critical, as is providing ongoing support for survivors.