Following the canonization of the “First Millennial Saint,” a new discussion has emerged regarding a possible relic connected to him.
Carlo Acutis, who died of leukemia in 2006 at the age of 15, was both a computer whiz and a passionate video game fan. Since his canonization on September 7—during a Mass in St. Peter’s Square celebrated by Pope Leo XIV before approximately 80,000 faithful—interest in objects linked to the young saint, often nicknamed “God’s Influencer,” has greatly increased.
In recent years, various relics such as locks of his hair, his pericardium, and a piece of cloth he once touched have been displayed in churches worldwide, drawing thousands of pilgrims.
“Digital Missionary” and “Cyber Apostle of the Eucharist”
From an early age, Carlo showed a deep interest in technology. One of his most famous projects was a website documenting Eucharistic miracles officially recognized by the Church—a site that remains widely visited today.
At the same time, he loved video games. When he was eight years old, he received a PlayStation as a gift, though he limited himself to just one hour of gaming per week. Recently, a debate has emerged about whether his console—or even its controller—could be considered a second-class relic.
How the Church Defines Relics
The Catholic Church traditionally divides relics into three categories:
- First-Class Relic: A physical part of a saint’s body (e.g., bone, hair, blood).
- Second-Class Relic: A personal item belonging to the saint (e.g., clothing, rosary, glasses, diary).
- Third-Class Relic: An object that has touched a first- or second-class relic (e.g., the saint’s tomb).
It is not yet known whether the Holy See has formally considered the possibility of Carlo’s PlayStation being recognized as a relic. However, if ecclesiastical authorities were to authenticate it, the console could become the first video game relic in Church history. For now, it remains a private matter for Carlo’s family.