While we all visit Assisi for the town’s notable contribution of the great Saints Francis and Clare, we could have easily spent days atop this old world town and it’s surrounding countryside. This is Italy at its finest: old shops full of icons, keepsakes and unique mementos, side streets of cobblestone, and cafes and eateries that make my mouth water just thinking back.
To add, Assisi is full of side-pilgrimages tucked in beautiful niches and chapels that are off the common pathways. Among these points of spiritual interest lies the body of soon-to-be-saint Carlo Acutis, at the simple Church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Assisi (not to be confused with the great Roman basilica). Carlo’s remains lay preserved and exposed in typical clothing of a teenager, peaceful in his rest. The area is quiet and prayerful. Carlo’s story really hits home – his deep love for the Eucharist and his mission to share the miracles surrounding it. Up this moment I had only heard about this young saint in passing – now his example in my life feels more real, and I can’t help but desire his presence in the lives of my children.
Standing there, in front of his final resting place, you cannot help but feel connected to his short journey. Despite his young age, he had an incredible dedication to his faith in the Eucharist, and my prayer is that, standing in the presence of someone like Blessed Carlo, your own devotion will be ignited within in you – a renewed sense of the True Presence, a desire to spend more time with Him.
Seek out the tomb of Blessed Carlo Acutis. You won’t regret it
