Happy MAR10 Day 2026!

MAR10 Day, celebrated annually on March 10, is a joyful tribute to Nintendo's iconic plumber, Mario, and the sprawling Super Mario franchise. The date cleverly abbreviates to "MAR10," mimicking Mario's name in all caps, making it an irresistible pun that fans latched onto years ago. While the exact origins are murky—likely bubbling up organically in online gaming communities sometime in the late 2000s or early 2010s—Nintendo first acknowledged it publicly in 2015 with tweets to YouTubers like Smosh Games, asking about favorite Mario moments. By 2016, the company fully embraced it, releasing celebratory videos and promotions, turning a fan creation into an official pseudo-holiday complete with sales, events, and announcements.

Fun ways to mark the occasion abound, whether solo or with a crew. Host a Mario Kart tournament on Nintendo Switch, complete with power-up snacks like mushroom-shaped cupcakes, star cookies, or coin-inspired chocolate gold coins. Dive into retro gaming marathons on emulators or original hardware, blasting through levels of Super Mario Bros. or Mario Party. For crafty types, build pixel art from cardboard or LEGO mimicking Mushroom Kingdom scenery, or whip up "fire flower" cocktails (non-alcoholic for kids: spicy orange soda with a cherry "power-up"). Community events pop up too, like arcades offering free plays on Mario cabinets or libraries hosting speedrun contests. Nintendo often chimes in with digital goodies, such as photo filters featuring Mario characters or in-game challenges in titles like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, where fans collectively rack up laps for rewards.

Costume ideas lean into the franchise's colorful cast for maximum "wa-hoo!" factor. Go classic as Mario: red hat with an "M," blue overalls, white gloves, bushy mustache (fake it with makeup or felt), and red sneakers—add a fake mustache and Italian accent for authenticity. Luigi swaps red for green, perfect for the shy sidekick vibe. Princess Peach rocks a pink gown, crown, and parasol; Toad sports a mushroom hat and vest; or channel Bowser with a spiked shell backpack, green face paint, and claws from foam. Group themes shine: one Mario, one Luigi, a Yoshi in a dino suit, or even villain squad with Wario and Waluigi in purple and yellow. DIY with thrift store finds—overalls from hardware stores, hats from felt—and thrift it up for under $20. Stores like GameStop have run contests where the best-dressed Mario scores freebies like Switch credits.

Gamers celebrate with unbridled nostalgia and competition. Speedrunners tackle any% records on classics like Super Mario Bros., sharing Twitch streams or YouTube highlights. Online communities host 24-hour relays, fan art floods social media (think #MAR10Day cosplay galleries), and Discord servers buzz with custom Mario mods for games like Smash Bros. Nintendo fuels the fire with eShop discounts—titles like Super Mario Odyssey or Mario vs. Donkey Kong drop 50-75%—plus free trials of Switch Online for multiplayer mayhem. Arcades light up with Mario Kart cabinets, families binge-watch the Super Mario Bros. Movie or animated shorts, and global events like Universal's Super Nintendo World host themed meetups. It's a mix of retro reverence and modern multiplayer, uniting generations in pixelated glory.

Super Mario's importance in gaming culture cannot be overstated—he's the blueprint for everything from platformers to mascots. Debuting as "Jumpman" in 1981's Donkey Kong, Mario exploded with 1985's Super Mario Bros. on NES, selling over 40 million copies and rescuing the industry post-1983 crash. His tight controls, vibrant worlds, hidden secrets, and catchy chiptunes defined side-scrolling adventures, influencing Sonic, Crash Bandicoot, and countless indies. Mario pioneered 3D platforming in Sunshine and Galaxy, go-kart racers, party games, and RPGs, spawning over 200 titles and 430 million Super Mario sales alone. Culturally, he's bigger than Mickey Mouse in some polls, starring in films grossing billions, theme parks, Olympics promos, and endless merch. Mario made gaming mainstream, family-friendly, and global, proving simple heroes could conquer worlds.

As for Catholic elements in Mario, they're subtle and mostly inferred from his Italian roots rather than overt. Mario hails from the Mushroom Kingdom but embodies a Brooklyn-Italian plumber stereotype—think pasta-loving, family-oriented everyman from a nation where over 80% are Catholic. His name derives from "Marius," linked to devotion to the Virgin Mary in Italian tradition, and official Nintendo trivia once depicted him reading a Bible-like book in a "What is Christianity?" card. Holiday art shows him celebrating Christmas with Yoshi, and fans speculate prayer-like animations in newer games (e.g., Super Mario Party Jamboree). The 1993 live-action film opens in a Catholic orphanage with nuns and stained-glass biblical scenes. No explicit sacraments or theology appear in core games—Nintendo keeps it secular for broad appeal—but his heritage invites headcanon: as an Italian Catholic archetype, Mario's selfless rescues mirror chivalric saints, fighting evil like a modern St. George. Whether canonically Catholic or not, he resonates with values of courage, loyalty, and joy that align with the faith.

Translation of Diana Montagna's 'Leaked Documents' & Summary

Below is a rough translation of the alleged leaked documents journalist Diana Montagna provided on her Substack claiming as evidence of her claims that the majority of Bishops favored the Extraordinary Form of the Mass, leaving Summorum Ponitificum in place and that Pope Francis acted against their wishes and misled the Catholic faithful by stating another outcome of the survey.  

Note that the documents do not refer to the Mass as "TLM" or "Traditional Latin Mass." They use the proper and only name: Extraordinary Form:

Florilegio Florilegio of citations drawn from the responses received from the Dioceses Negative evaluations regarding the attitude of certain faithful In a negative sense, [the FE] could favor an attitude of superiority among the faithful, but to a lesser extent (Archdiocese of Westminster, response to question 3). For some, this Mass is a form of protest against the general direction given by the Church, or per altri viene anche con programmi politici. Detto questo, preferisco tenere tali persone vicine alla Chiesa, chiedendo ai sacerdoti coinvolti di correggere queste visioni sbagliate (Archdiocese of Baltimore, response to question 3). I do not see negative aspects in this use of the FE insofar as it is. Quando ci sono aspetti negativi, essi sono dovuti agli atteggiamenti negativi di coloro che hanno opinioni forti in una direzione o nell'altra, rispetto a questa forma celebrativa. Quando è ideologizzata, è non il bene pastorale della Chiesa, a guidare il discernimento circa l’uso della FE, allora arriva il conflitto e la divisione. Ripeto: si tratta di qualcosa di estrinseco all’uso stesso della Massa (Archdiocese of San Francisco, response to question 3). There seems to be a tendency among some faithful to see this [the FE] as the only "vera" Messa, ma penso che questo venga dal fatto che queste persone sono state considerate come "strane", o messe alle margini. Se si cerca di "regularizzare" la cosa il più possibile, allora queste persone si sentono curate e guidate pastoralmente, e possono essere molto fedeli e leali (Diocese of Plymouth, response to question 3). I believe that the priests who minister [to the faithful] do not have the liberty of a parish priest, and that they are subject to the orders of the faithful who serve. Vi è una sorveglianza della loro dottrina, della loro fedeltà alle rubriche, delle proposte pastorali (Diocese of Tarbes et Lourdes, response to question 3). Some people who support the FE often come with presupposed ideologies. Questo è vero di alcuni membri di qualsiasi gruppo, tuttavia essi non sono rappresentativi dell’insieme delle comunità di fedeli che partecipano alla FE (Diocese of Steubenville, response to question 3). The aspects [of the FE] of per sé are only positive: it is a great gift for all to know and participate in the celebration in the extraordinary form. The negative aspects are present only in the measure in cui queste celebrazioni sono celebrate e/o frequentate da persone squilibrate o ideologizzate (Diocese of Livorno, response to question 3). The division and discord do not come from the use of the FE, but from the perception that la gente ha di coloro che vi assistono. Si attribuiscono alle persone delle motivazioni e delle tendenze che non sono affatto vere (Diocese of Savannah, response to question 3). [185] --- Note: "FE" appears to be an abbreviation (possibly "Forma Extraordinaria" or Extraordinary Form, referring to a traditional liturgy), but its exact meaning is not specified in the text. The translation preserves the context as provided.

Below is the English translation of the provided text:

--- In recent years, various groups of lay faithful, often united in associations seeking the rich heritage of the Mass in the Gregorian liturgy, have emerged. 47. Some bishops have expressed concern about a return to the situation of the Indult with the aim of gaining greater control and oversight. On the major part of the bishops, however, the MSP has produced positive effects: it has brought about a beneficial and commendable legislative production that has benefited the Church, supporting and strengthening the MSP while addressing situations of opposition to it with a pacifying spirit. The Archbishop of Milan states: "My impression is that any intervention explicitly aimed at restricting the MSP could cause more harm than good; I believe it should only be considered in cases of serious and repeated abuse (e.g., solo). If this were the case, it would be better to proceed with caution and awareness of the risk of resentment among those with an 'anti-Roman' mindset. Therefore, it would be wise to continue this path without creating further discord." 48. Others believe that an eventual change by the Holy See, on the other hand, would favor a flourishing of fidelity to the Church, as seen in the example of the Fraternity of Saint Pius X in various schismatic groups; this should force a sincere reflection on the idea that one should not always trust in "a Rome that gives with one hand and takes with the other." Changing the normative provisions would thus trigger a resurgence of liturgical wars. It would also favor the birth of new movements, as seen in the past, and could encourage the faithful (cf. Motu Proprio Ecclesia Dei Afflicta of 1988; MSP of 2007). 49. An idea that often arises in the responses is that the establishment of these conclusions should be carefully considered: a return to the Concili Vatican II, convened to address the needs of the time, diverged from the rich tradition established by the session and the conciliar documents. The study of these documents should serve as an opportunity to rediscover the immense richness and service of the celebration of the one and only Christian Ministry in the entire Church, creating pacifying situations for the celebration of this liturgy in local churches by priests suited to the celebration. 50. Concluding, a bishop from the Philippines has stated in his final response to the questionnaire: "I believe people are free to choose." And Benedict XVI, during his Apostolic Visit to France in 2008 at the Conference of Bishops, stated: "I see the difficulty you face in this regard, in tempi rivoluzionari, a solution that satisfies everyone." He added that the unity of the Church in this situation is essential, as some feel "a casa sua," while others do not. Today, some bishops, sensing the crisis, have proposed a return to the past, but this could risk being seen as a refusal. Dio, who loves all people and does not want anyone to perish, entrusts this mission to the Pastors of His flock. We cannot thank Him enough for the honor and trust He grants us. Let us strive to be ever-faithful servants, reaffirming our commitment against any form of division and exclusion in the Church. In essence, these words should serve as a line of reflection, judgment, and guidance for us today. Rome, 22 February 2021 Feast of the Cathedra of Saint Peter the Apostle [184] ---

Note: "MSP" appears to be an abbreviation (possibly "Motu Proprio Summorum Pontificum"), and "FE" from the previous text might relate to it. The translation preserves the context as provided, with some terms left in their original form where meaning is unclear without additional context.

Below is the English translation of the provided text: --- Comprehensive Judgment 34. The important role of the document is evident, as the Motu Proprio Summorum Pontificum brought today a truly significant, albeit relatively modest, renewal to the life of the Church. The concept of Pope Benedict XVI, over ten years of widespread support among advocates of the reformed liturgy of 1970 and those of the Missale Romanum in its 1962 version, the MSP has successfully affirmed the equal dignity of the two forms of the same Roman Rite, creating a condition favorable to a true liturgical peace, also in view of an eventual unity of the two forms in the future. 35. The reciprocal enrichment and updating of the Missale Romanum of 1962, auspicated by the aforementioned Pope (cf. letter of 7 July 2007) is something that can be achieved only with the application of the same Motu Proprio. Universae Ecclesiae del 30 April 2011, and due to the decree confirmed by Pope Francis on 15 December 2019, which unanimously favored the Fathers members of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (decree Quo magis, regarding the addition of seven new prefaces, and decree Cum Sanctissima, regarding the insertion of new Saints). 36. The diffusion of the ancient Roman Rite following the MSP is attested to within 20% of the Latin dioceses worldwide, and its application today is certainly more serene and pacifying, even if not everywhere; there are cases of residual discord not resolved. Furthermore, in some dioceses, this state is considered a FE that comes with a certain inappropriate, disturbing, albeit minor per la vita pastorale ordinaria e anche "pericoloso" if not addressed, or at least controlled strictly so that it does not spread, given the possibility of eventual division or abolition. 37. The majority of bishops involved in the questionnaire, who have generously and intelligently applied the MSP, declare at the end of their responses that, in particular, those who have also had the opportunity to form a personal parish, where all sacraments are administered according to the FE and where a stable community celebrates with devotion and pastoral care, have closely collaborated with the bishop in this situation which has been entirely pacifying. 38. Constantly, some bishops note, and this is especially true among young priests, a certain desire to know this ancient Liturgy. The major part of stable groups present nell’orbe cattolico who compose it with devotion and fervor have shown, over time, a certain solemnity of the Liturgy. This has been noted, also a cause of a society excessively noisy and talkative, the recourse to silence in sacred action, the role of liturgical chant, the dignity of celebration: all of which attract non poco. Pope Benedict XVI wrote in the letter to bishops accompanying the MSP, this quest succitata categoria di persone sono i destinatari privilegiati del Suo provvidenmento legislativo, oltre, chiaramente, tutti coloro che da decenni chiedevano la liberalizzazione e la legittimazione nella prassi liturgico-pastorale della venerabile Liturgia latino-gregoriana. [181] --- Note: "MSP" likely refers to Motu Proprio Summorum Pontificum, and "FE" may relate to "Forma Extraordinaria" (Extraordinary Form). The translation preserves the context as provided, with some terms left in their original form where meaning is unclear without additional context.

The text in the image is in Italian and translates to: --- CONGREGATIO PRO DOCTRINA FIDEI Prot. N. 03/2020-ED CONSULTATION OF BISHOPS CONCERNING THE APPLICATION OF THE MOTU PROPRIO SUMMORUM PONTIFICUM APRIL 2020 REPORT FEBRUARY 2021 --- This appears to be the cover page of a report prepared by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith regarding the consultation of bishops on the application of the Motu Proprio Summorum Pontificum, dated April 2020, with the report finalized in February 2021.

___________________________________________________________________________________

Below is a summary of each document based on the translated content, followed by an analysis regarding whether they suggest Pope Francis lied or misled the Church with Traditionis Custodes. Summary of Each Document 1. Florilegio (First Document) - Content: This document compiles responses from various dioceses regarding the attitudes of certain faithful toward the Extraordinary Form (FE) of the Mass. It highlights mixed opinions: some see it as a source of pride or protest, others note risks of division or ideological misuse. Positive aspects include pastoral care and fidelity, while negative aspects include potential superiority or conflict among faithful. - Purpose: To gather and present diverse perspectives on the implementation and impact of the FE, reflecting both support and concerns. 2. Giudizio compensivo (Second Document) - Content: This provides a comprehensive judgment on the *Motu Proprio Summorum Pontificum* (MSP). It notes the MSP’s role in affirming the equal dignity of the 1962 and 1970 Missals, fostering liturgical peace, and addressing challenges like schism or discord. It includes bishops’ views on its application, with some favoring its continuation and others cautioning against potential divisions. - Purpose: To evaluate the MSP’s effects over a decade, suggesting a balanced approach to its use while acknowledging both benefits and risks. 3. Relazione (Third Document) - Content: This is a report from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) summarizing a 2020 consultation of bishops on the application of *Summorum Pontificum*. It reflects on the document’s impact, noting a 20% adoption rate among Latin dioceses, serene application in some areas, and ongoing tensions or divisions in others. It emphasizes the need for pastoral oversight. - Purpose: To assess the practical implementation of MSP and provide a basis for future decisions based on bishops’ feedback. Analysis: Did Pope Francis Lie or Mislead with Traditionis Custodes? Traditionis Custodes, issued by Pope Francis on July 16, 2021, restricts the use of the Extraordinary Form (1962 Missal) established by Summorum Pontificum (2007), citing concerns about disunity, rejection of Vatican II, and the need to preserve liturgical unity. It requires bishops’ approval for its use and emphasizes the 1970 Missal as the sole expression of the Roman Rite. - Evidence from Documents: - The Florilegio and Giudizio compensivo acknowledge both positive (e.g., pastoral care, liturgical richness) and negative aspects (e.g., division, ideological misuse) of the FE, aligning with concerns later expressed in Traditionis Custodes. The Relazione specifically notes a 20% adoption rate and residual discord, suggesting that the issues of disunity and uneven application were recognized by 2020. - These documents do not universally oppose the FE but highlight challenges that could justify regulatory adjustments, consistent with the CDF’s consultation process leading to Traditionis Custodes. - Assessment of Misleading or Lying: - There is no direct evidence in these documents that Pope Francis lied. The concerns about division and ideological misuse cited in *Traditionis Custodes* are reflected in the bishops’ responses (e.g., Archdiocese of San Francisco noting conflict, Diocese of Savannah mentioning perceived motivations). The *Relazione*’s timing (February 2021) indicates the CDF was aware of these issues before the motu proprio’s issuance, suggesting a deliberate response to documented feedback rather than fabrication. - However, some might argue he misled the Church if they believe he overstated the extent of the problem or ignored the positive aspects (e.g., young priests’ interest, as noted in the Relazione). The documents show a mixed picture, with many bishops supporting the FE’s pacifying effects, which Traditionis Custodes does not fully emphasize. This could be seen as selective framing rather than outright deception. - Conclusion: The documents do not prove Pope Francis lied or misled the Church. They support the existence of the issues he addressed, though his decision to restrict the FE contrasts with the balanced tone of the earlier reports. Any perception of misleading likely stems from differing interpretations of the data rather than intentional falsehood, as the CDF’s consultation process appears to have informed his action. This analysis is based on the provided texts and does not extend beyond their content or the context of Traditionis Custodes as issued.

Luigi Mangione: From Ivy League to Jail

Title: The Complex Life of Luigi Mangione: From Ivy League Graduate to Infamous Figure

Introduction

Luigi Mangione, a name that has recently made headlines, is a figure of complex contrasts. Known for his academic brilliance and good looks, Mangione's life took a dramatic turn when he was charged with the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. This post delves into his background, education, reading habits, and the public's infatuation with him, painting a picture of a man who has become both a subject of fascination and controversy.

Education and Career

Luigi Mangione's educational journey is impressive. He attended the prestigious Gilman School in Baltimore, Maryland, where he graduated as valedictorian in 2016. His academic excellence continued at the University of Pennsylvania, an Ivy League institution, where he earned both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Engineering, with a focus on Computer and Information Science. Mangione also minored in mathematics and was involved in various extracurricular activities, including founding a video game development club.

After completing his education, Mangione worked as a data engineer for TrueCar, Inc., in Santa Monica, California. Despite his promising career, his life took a dark turn with the events leading to his arrest.

Books and Interests

Mangione's reading habits reveal a man deeply interested in self-improvement and societal issues. His Goodreads profile lists several books on chronic pain, such as "Becoming a Supple Leopard" and "Healing Back Pain: The Mind-Body Connection". These choices suggest a personal or empathetic connection to chronic pain, possibly stemming from his own health issues.

Interestingly, Mangione also reviewed Ted Kaczynski's manifesto, "Industrial Society and Its Future," describing it as "prescient" and noting its relevance to modern societal problems. This review, along with his other reading choices, paints a picture of someone grappling with complex ideas about society and technology.

Good Looks and Public Infatuation

Mangione's good looks have not gone unnoticed. He is extremely photogenic and handsome by American standards. Social media has been abuzz with comments about his appearance, with some even romanticizing his actions. This phenomenon, known as hybristophilia, is the attraction to individuals who commit crimes criminals. Psychologists suggest that this infatuation may stem from a combination of his physical attractiveness, his academic background, and the perceived "bad boy" allure,

The "Bad Boy" Image

The narrative of Mangione as a "bad boy" has been fueled by his recent actions and the public's reaction. Despite the serious charges against him, some people have turned him into a folk hero, celebrating his defiance against corporate America. This romanticization is problematic, as it can overshadow the gravity of his alleged crimes and the impact on the victims involved.

Conclusion

Luigi Mangione's life is a tapestry of contrasts. From his academic achievements and professional success to his controversial actions and the public's infatuation with him, he embodies the complexities of modern society. As the legal proceedings continue, it remains to be seen how his story will unfold and what lessons can be drawn from his life.

Theories claim that a back injury is what led to his alleged action against the UnitedHealthcare CEO, Thompson. His roommate and friends claim that Luigi suffered from chronic pain and was unable to be sexually active as a result. However, traveling from Pennsylvania to New York on a bus sitting all those hours, riding a bike in Manhattan, and the struggle against cops as he was being led into court puts this into doubt.  However, as the evidence comes in and a study of the 3-page manifesto he had in his possession when arrested may give us more details.

It is extremely mindboggling as to why such a privileged young man who seemed to have it all would commit such a heinous act. He is wealthy, comes from wealth, has white privilege, is tall and very handsome, fit and extremely well-educated and intelligent yet resorted to this uncivilized act.  Time will tell as we sort through the facts and evidence. What is concerning is how some are taking his arrest. They are attacking the victim and praising Luigi's actions as "heroic." It goes to show you how sick and twisted some Americans can be. We saw this in the case of Daniel Penny where some were calling him a hero for killing a homeless man with mental illness who screamed out that he was hungry.  It is just absurd and disturbing. The mental health crisis in America is real and we are seeing it publicly manifest more and more.  

Some are even claiming that Luigi is "fall-man" or one who is taking the blame for the real perpetrator.  They post comparisons between the photos of Luigi in Pennsylvania and those of the security cam at the Hostel in Midtown, NY. They claim that one has a unibrow and the other does not.  They disregard that people often look differently based on angles, the change the cold causes on physical features, and the fact that the DNA and fingerprints match, and Luigi was found with the gun and other items directly linking him to the killing of Brian Thomspon.  

Sources:

: [Hollywood Life](https://hollywoodlife.com/feature/luigi-mangione-school-5352513/)

: [Yahoo News](https://www.yahoo.com/news/know-luigi-mangione-suspect-charged-020825273.html)

: [Newsweek](https://www.newsweek.com/unitedhealthcare-shooting-suspect-luigi-mangione-read-books-chronic-pain-1997995)

: [The Intercept](https://theintercept.com/2024/12/09/unitedhealthcare-ceo-luigi-mangione-reading-list/)

: [Local 21 News](https://local21news.com/news/local/individuals-feel-heard-mangione-supporters-vouch-for-the-suspected-killer-online)

: [Your Tango](https://www.yourtango.com/entertainment/details-luigi-mangiones-life-people-romanticizing-social-media)

criminals?](https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/luigi-mangione-may-latest-internet-181711658.html): [Yahoo Lifestyle](https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/luigi-mangione-may-latest-internet-181711658.html)

Blessed Carlo Acutis

Blessed Carlo Acutis: A Teenage Saint for Our Times

Blessed Carlo Acutis was a young Catholic from Italy who had a deep love for Jesus in the Eucharist and a talent for computer programming. He used his skills to create a website that documented Eucharistic miracles and Marian apparitions around the world. He died of leukemia in 2006 at the age of 15, offering his suffering for the pope and the Church. He was beatified by Pope Francis on October 10, 2020, in Assisi, Italy, where he is buried.

In this blog post, I want to share with you some facts about his life and his legacy, and why I think he is a saint for our times.

His Early Life

Carlo was born in London, England, on May 3, 1991, to Andrea Acutis and Antonia Salzano, members of wealthy Italian families. His parents were not very religious, but Carlo had a natural attraction to God from a young age. He was baptized in London and moved to Milan with his family when he was a few months old.

He loved to pray the rosary and to go to Mass as often as he could. He made his first Communion at the age of seven and went to confession weekly. He had a special devotion to the Blessed Sacrament and spent hours in adoration before and after Mass. He also had a great admiration for St. Francis of Assisi and asked his parents to take him on pilgrimages to the places of the saints and the sites of Eucharistic miracles.

Carlo was not only a devout Catholic, but also a normal teenager who enjoyed playing soccer, video games, and hanging out with his friends. He was cheerful, kind, generous, and respectful to everyone. He was also very intelligent and curious, especially about science and technology. He taught himself how to code and design websites when he was 10 years old.

His Website

One of Carlo's passions was to spread the faith through the internet. He believed that the internet was a gift from God and a powerful tool for evangelization. He said: "The more Jesus we have in our lives, the more joy we will have. The internet is one way we can use to draw closer to Jesus."

He decided to use his skills to create a website that showcased Eucharistic miracles and Marian apparitions that had been approved by the Church. He researched hundreds of sources and collected images, testimonies, and historical documents. He organized them into an online exhibition that he called "The Eucharistic Miracles of the World".

He worked on this project for two years, spending all his free time and money on it. He wanted to share with others his love for Jesus in the Eucharist and his conviction that "the more often we receive the Eucharist, the more we will become like Jesus, so that on this earth we will have a foretaste of heaven".

His website can be accessed here: [http://www.miracolieucaristici.org/en/Liste/list.html](http://www.miracolieucaristici.org/en/Liste/list.html)

His Death

In September 2006, Carlo started feeling sick and was diagnosed with leukemia. He accepted his illness with courage and faith, saying: "I offer all the suffering I will have to suffer for the Lord, for the pope, and the Church." He also said: "I'm happy to die because I've lived my life without wasting even a minute of it doing things that wouldn't have pleased God."

He died on October 12, 2006, in Monza, Italy. He was buried in Assisi, at his request, because of his love for St. Francis of Assisi. His tomb became a place of pilgrimage for many people who were inspired by his life and holiness.

His Beatification

Carlo's cause for canonization was opened in 2013 by the Archdiocese of Milan. He was declared "Venerable" in 2018 by Pope Francis, who recognized his heroic virtues. He was declared "Blessed" on October 10, 2020, by Cardinal Agostino Vallini, who represented Pope Francis at the beatification ceremony in Assisi.

The miracle that led to his beatification involved the healing of a Brazilian boy who suffered from a rare congenital anomaly of the pancreas in 2013. The boy's father had seen Carlo's picture on the internet and felt a connection with him. He asked Carlo's intercession for his son's healing. After praying a novena with Carlo's prayers, he touched Carlo's picture to his son's abdomen. The next day, the boy started eating normally and showed no signs of illness. The doctors confirmed that he was inexplicably cured.

Carlo's feast day is October 12. He is the patron saint of youth, computer programmers, and the internet. He is also the first millennial to be beatified and the first person to be beatified in a pair of jeans and sneakers.

His Message

Carlo's message to us is simple and powerful: "To always be close to Jesus, that's my life plan." He shows us that holiness is possible for everyone, even for young people in the modern world. He shows us that we can use our talents and passions to serve God and others. He shows us that we can find joy and peace in the Eucharist and in the sacraments. He shows us that we can offer our sufferings for the good of the Church and the salvation of souls.

He also challenges us to live our faith with authenticity and enthusiasm, to be witnesses of God's love in the world, and to use the internet for good and not for evil. He invites us to follow his example and to say with him: "I am happy to die because I have lived my life without wasting even a minute of it doing things that wouldn't have pleased God."

Blessed Carlo Acutis, pray for us!