Religious Education & Faith Life
ST CARLO
Our Year 6 students recently had the privilege of visiting St Michael the Archangel Chapel to experience the inspiring St Carlo Acutis Exhibition and venerate his relics.
St Carlo Acutis was a remarkable young Catholic who used his gifts in technology to share his faith with others. Born in 1991 and passing away at just 15 years of age, Carlo had a deep love for the Eucharist, which he described as his "highway to Heaven." He became well known for researching and documenting Eucharistic miracles from around the world and creating an online exhibition so that others could learn more about the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.
During the excursion, students gathered together in prayer and reverently prayed the Rosary. They then learned more about the life, faith and witness of St Carlo before exploring the exhibition, which showcased the extensive research he conducted on Eucharistic miracles from around the world. The displays provided students with a deeper understanding of the central place of the Eucharist in our Catholic faith and highlighted the way Carlo used his talents to evangelise and inspire others.
While learning about the many Eucharistic miracles researched and documented by St Carlo, students also discovered the more relatable side of his life. They were fascinated to learn that Carlo was an ordinary young person who enjoyed soccer, video games and spending time with friends. One story that particularly resonated with the students was learning that after arriving home from school, Carlo loved to eat Nutella straight from the spoon. These simple and familiar details helped students see that holiness is not reserved for extraordinary people, but is something all young people can strive for in their everyday lives.
A particularly special moment of the day was the opportunity for students to pray before and touch the relics of St Carlo Acutis. Students were also invited to write a personal prayer intention. These intentions will travel to Rome, where they will be placed on St Carlo's tomb for 24 hours, providing a meaningful connection to this young saint and the universal Church.
The students are to be commended for their reverent and respectful behaviour throughout the visit. They engaged thoughtfully with the experience, demonstrated genuine curiosity during the exhibition, and participated prayerfully in all aspects of the day. Their conduct reflected great maturity and respect for the sacred nature of the occasion.
This excursion also provided a valuable connection to the learning students have been undertaking in preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation. As students continue researching and reflecting on their chosen Confirmation saints, they have been exploring how the lives of the saints can inspire us to grow in faith and discipleship. Encountering the life and witness of St Carlo Acutis offered a contemporary example of a young person living out the Gospel with courage, conviction and joy, encouraging our Year 6 students as they continue their own faith journey towards Confirmation.
