Just days before his canonization, Saint Carlo Acutis now has a new sculpture beside his tomb in Assisi.
The bronze work, created by Canadian sculptor Timothy Schmalz, depicts the young saint kneeling at Christ's feet while holding a laptop—symbolizing the way he brought devotion to the Eucharist into the digital world.
The 11-foot-high sculpture, titled St. Carlo at the Cross, was installed in the garden of the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore at the Santuario della Spogliazione (“Shrine of the Renunciation”), the same place where Saint Francis of Assisi gave up his worldly possessions to follow Christ.
This is Schmalz’s first sculpture honoring the “millennial saint.” He is also known for powerful works such as Homeless Jesus and Angels Unawares.
In the piece, Carlo’s laptop shows a chalice and paten, recalling his work evangelizing through the internet—especially his famous website documenting Eucharistic miracles from around the world. Another notable detail is the sling hanging from his backpack, which the artist interprets as a reference to David facing Goliath.
“A young man who confronts contemporary secular culture with the tools of the digital world, and who draws his strength from the pillar of the cross,” Schmalz explained.
Statue's Unveiling on the Solemnity of the Assumption
The official unveiling took place on August 15, the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Bishop of Assisi-Nocera Umbra-Gualdo Tadino and Foligno, Archbishop Domenico Sorrentino, presided over the blessing, along with the shrine’s rector, Father Marco Gaballo.
The celebration included the praying of the Rosary and concluded with a time of fellowship organized by the Capuchin Friars, custodians of the shrine.
During the event, Archbishop Sorrentino encouraged the faithful to “pray and embrace with enthusiasm the great miracle of faith and devotion.”
Carlo Acutis' Path to Canonization
The canonization of Carlo Acutis is scheduled for Sunday, September 7, 2025, in Rome. The ceremony will be presided over by Pope Leo XIV and is expected to draw thousands of pilgrims eager to honor the Church’s newest saint.
On the same day, Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati—known for his love of the poor and his devotion to the Eucharist—will also be canonized.