Amid the crowds that filled the streets of Rome, the life story of Father Elinton Costa stood out as especially moving. The Brazilian priest survived the same form of leukemia that afflicted Saint Carlo Acutis—and now rejoices in having, as he puts it, “a new friend in heaven.”
On Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, Saint Peter’s Square was the setting of a historic celebration: Pope Leo XIV canonized Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati. Thousands of faithful filled the esplanade with joy as the Church proclaimed these two young men saints.
The Illness That Drew Him Closer to the Heart of Jesus
In an interview with ChurchPOP, Father Costa shared details about his battle with cancer.
“I had the same leukemia as Carlo, a very severe M3 acute myeloid leukemia. I spent five days urinating blood and 28 days in chemotherapy. It took four cycles… but more than physical healing, God healed my soul. I realized I needed to abandon myself completely to Him, as Carlo did.”
He recalled a decisive moment that took place in the hospital, while crying in the shower after his diagnosis.
“I saw the water as if it were the blood and water of the Heart of Jesus. The Holy Spirit revealed to me: this illness is not for death, but for the glory of God. I understood that it was Lazarus. From then on, I gave it all up. I no longer depended on doctors, but on God.”
The Impact of Carlo Acutis on His Life
For Father Costa, Carlo became a true spiritual companion.
“Carlo was Italian, like my grandparents, and he shared that freedom and simplicity. He knew how to say no to unnecessary things and chose to live united with Jesus. His testimony inspires me because, even without being a priest, he lived an existential priesthood: a total dedication to Christ.”
Now healed and back in his ministry, Father Costa lives as a witness that God continues to work miracles.
“I pray the Rosary every day, I do Eucharistic Adoration, I celebrate daily Mass. I try not to miss any opportunity to bear witness. Carlo said we are born original, but many live as photocopies. I want to be faithful to the gift God gave me.”
The Canonization of Carlo Acutis
During the canonization Mass in Saint Peter’s Square, Father Costa shared his gratitude on social media:
“A year ago, I never imagined being here for Carlo’s canonization. Truly, it’s not we who choose the saint who guards us, but he who chooses us. Another friend in heaven! May my life plan also be to live always united to Jesus, as Carlo did.”
Father Costa’s testimony is a powerful sign of the saints’ intercession and God’s mercy. Saint Carlo Acutis continues to inspire young people and adults alike to place Jesus at the center of their lives.