By Fr. Jim Berning, SDB
Bl. Carlo Acutis’ memorial on Thursday, October 12 provides us with an approach to National Vocation Week, namely, that everyone has what it takes to be a saint! Although he lived only till 15, his way of life revealed how real fulfillment comes together. On the one hand, he saw the needs of the homeless and poor on his way to school. And, by getting to know them, he was able to provide them with food, sleeping bags, or whatever they needed in a timely way.
On the other hand, what fueled his efforts to carry out such acts of loving service was his zeal for the Eucharist. Using his technology skills, he built a website on Eucharistic devotion that has been translated into 13 languages.
Carlo’s life is a testimony of how to link the digital with the personal. Further, through his devotion to the Eucharist, he enacted a Eucharistic revival by giving God the glory and by rendering concrete acts of service for others.
As we approach National Vocation Week, here are some resources:
“Carlo Acutis Animation”
“Getting to Know Carlo Acutis” (Spanish)
“Salesian Charism 2021”
“Vocation 101: What is Vocation?”
“I Will Follow—Two Catholic Priests' Vocation Stories”
A Six-Month Discernment Program for Priests by Fr. Greg Gerhart
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