With a quiet but historic declaration, Pope Leo XIV opened the doors to a canonization that bridges generations — and ignites debate across the globe.
In a historic moment at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV presided over his first Ordinary Public Consistory on Friday morning. The event marked a pivotal point in his pontificate and brought with it an announcement that has stirred global attention.
During the solemn ceremony, Pope Leo XIV and the College of Cardinals gave formal approval for the canonizations of eight Blesseds. Among them were two figures whose lives continue to inspire generations — Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati and Blessed Carlo Acutis.
The Pope declared that both men would be canonized together in Rome on September 7, 2025. This date now stands as a milestone in the Church’s calendar. It will see the canonization of the first saint born in the 21st century — Carlo Acutis — alongside Pier Giorgio Frassati, a figure of early 20th-century Catholic devotion.
The Vatican’s announcement swiftly traveled across social media, generating a wave of reactions. Some posts expressed criticism. “IS THIS A JOKE,” wrote one user. Another commented, “And this is why Reformation was needed.”
Others offered perspective. “The pope is just a man. Js,” one post noted, while another defended the decision: “Honestly, it’s no different than walking around 2000 years ago spreading the word — just because it’s a different medium doesn’t make his work less meaningful.”
