In his homily, Pope Leo reflected on the recent canonizations of Pier Giorgio Frassati and Carlo Acutis, presenting them as luminous examples of young people who entrusted their lives entirely to God. He began with the words of the Book of Wisdom: “Who has learned your counsel, unless you have given wisdom and sent your holy spirit from on high?” (Wis 9:17), spoken by Solomon — himself a young man aware that all his gifts and possessions would be wasted without divine wisdom.
The Pope reminded the faithful that Jesus calls every disciple to follow him unreservedly, even at the cost of sacrifice: “Whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple” (Lk 14:27). History offers countless examples of young people who embraced this call, from St. Francis of Assisi to St. Augustine, each of whom discovered their true purpose when they asked God, “Lord, what do you want me to do?”
In this same spirit, Saints Pier Giorgio and Carlo are held up as witnesses for our time. Pier Giorgio, known for his joy, faith, and tireless charity, combined his studies, friendships, and civic engagement with a deep love for the poor. Carlo, a teenager of the digital age, lived an ordinary yet extraordinary holiness, rooted in daily Mass, Eucharistic adoration, and simple acts of love. Both found strength in prayer, confession, and devotion to Mary, teaching that sanctity begins in small, hidden gestures.
Their lives, though brief, were rich with meaning. Pier Giorgio once said: “The day of my death will be the most beautiful day of my life,” while Carlo reminded us: “Sadness is looking at yourself; happiness is looking at God.” For both, holiness was not an abstract ideal but a concrete journey, shaped by charity, joy, and an upward gaze toward heaven.
Pope Leo concluded by urging the faithful, especially the young, not to squander their lives but to make them “masterpieces” by placing God at the centre. As Pier Giorgio declared: “If you have God at the centre of all your actions, then you will reach the end.” And as Carlo affirmed: “Not I, but God.” These words, the Pope said, remain a simple yet powerful formula for a life well lived and for the eternal feast of heaven.
