Catholic Church Investigates Online Sale of Carlo Acutis Relics Ahead of Canonization

The Church condemns the commercialization of relics as it prepares to canonize its first millennial saint on April 27, 2025, in St. Peter's Basilica.

Carlo Acutis, a devout teenager known for his faith and technological contributions, will be canonized as the Catholic Church's first millennial saint later this month.
The Church has called on Italian authorities to investigate the online sale of purported relics, including locks of Acutis' hair, which it deems a sin and a violation of sacred traditions.
Acutis' shrine in Assisi has attracted approximately 1 million pilgrims over the past year, highlighting his growing significance as a modern role model for young Catholics.
The canonization follows the recognition of two miracles attributed to Acutis, including the 2024 healing of a Costa Rican student after prayers at his tomb.
The Vatican emphasizes the proper veneration of relics, distributing them free of charge to parishes and communities, and rejects their commercialization as disrespectful to faith and tradition.