Stained glass window dedicated to Blessed Carlo Acutis captive in an English parish

St. Aldhelm’s Church in Malmesbury is proud to be the first parish in England, to its knowledge, to feature a stained glass window dedicated to Blessed Carlo Acutis, whose future canonization has been approved by Pope Francis.

Known as “The Millennial Saint,” Carlo was only 15 years old when he died of leukemia, but the young computer programmer has left a powerful legacy that continues to inspire young people around the world.

Blessed Carlo Acutis was a devout teenager with a deep love for the Blessed Sacrament and the rosary. Furthermore, he rarely missed the opportunity to attend daily Mass, and his dedication and faith also continue to inspire thousands of young people.

Although he has not yet been canonized, Carlo — who was born in London but spent the rest of his life in Italy — can be venerated in a church with special permission from the local diocese, after being beatified on October 10, 2020.

There were two windows in St. Aldhelm’s church that lacked images, so it was proposed to the pastoral council that an image of Blessed Carlo Acutis be included. As pastor of this parish, I hoped that he would especially attract young people who could identify with him as a contemporary figure.

Permission was obtained, in addition to permission being granted to venerate Blessed Carlo Acutis through a stained glass window that was installed in the temple in 2022.

The stained glass window gained much attention after Pope Francis informally announced that the second miracle attributed to Carlo’s intercession was going to be approved, clearing the way for his canonization. This amplified interest in the story of the blessed teenager and attracted even more visitors to the church.

The window has already inspired many people, both young and old. The congregation and the town are immensely proud of this moment, which has not only put their church on the map but has also attracted visitors from all over the country.

It has even attracted special attention in the media over the past two years.

The window appeared Christian family (Issue 2, January 8, 2023), an Italian weekly magazine published in Alba. The three-page article highlights how people have been drawn to and impressed by the stained glass window and often ask about Carlo’s story.

St. Aldhelm’s Church has become the center of national attention thanks to an inspiring article published by the British newspaper Daily Telegraphtitled The video game-loving teen who was made a saint – and immortalised in a Wiltshire church window.

The article highlighted how the stained glass window depicts Carlo in a contemporary light, complete with a modern watch and mobile phone, symbolizing his unique combination of modernity and piety. The installation was considered a thoughtful choice to resonate with younger generations.

Since the publication of the Telegraph article, St. Aldhelm’s Church has seen an increase in visitors. Many are drawn specifically to the story of Carlo’s short but powerful life, eager to see the stained glass window that so beautifully captures his spirit.

The stained glass window itself, crafted by artist Michael Vincent, has become a landmark for locals and tourists alike. His presence not only enhances the church’s aesthetic but also serves as a powerful reminder of Carlo’s enduring influence.

The artist has even prepared an additional panel to update Carlo’s title from “blessed” to “saint” following his canonization.

Several visitors say they came after reading the Telegraph article, inspired by Carlo’s wonderful story. An 87-year-old woman expressed how happy she was with the note. She and her 14 grandchildren have a great devotion to the blessed.

The day before, the parish quickly prepared about 100 brochures with a brief biography, quotes and photographs of Carlo, including the image posted in the window, so people could learn more about the teenager. About 500 copies of the eight-page booklet have been printed for those who come to see the play.

In April of this year, a 6-year-old girl suffered from the rare neurological disorder called Guillain-Barré syndrome, which left her entire body paralyzed. She had an induced coma and was placed on a ventilator. She has now regained full movement in her upper body.

During his illness, the parishioners of St. Aldhelm prayed fervently to Blessed Carlo Acutis, asking for his intercession. We truly believe that Carlo’s intercession has greatly contributed to the child’s rapid and remarkable recovery, and we are hopeful that she will make a full recovery.

We truly believe that with the stained glass window and its appeal to youth and families, St. Aldhelm Church will become a center of reflection and spiritual growth. It will be a place where young people can gather, reflect on their own lives and consider how they can dedicate themselves to God, beginning and advancing on the path of holiness.

We plan to place a kneeler in front of the window, providing a space for prayer, as well as a place for people to leave their prayers and requests, as well as answers to prayers.

For the past three years, our efforts have focused on the parish hall construction project. This effort is crucial because our parish has never had a space dedicated to catechism, early childhood education, and social gatherings. As we strive to achieve this goal, having already raised almost half of the funds needed, we are filled with hope.

The recent influx of visitors, especially young people and children attracted by Blessed Carlo, who would be one of the youngest saints, highlights the urgent need for such a facility. This room will serve as more than just a physical structure; It will be a place where our young people can gather, deepen their understanding of the life and teachings of Blessed Carlo, and grow spiritually.

This will allow you to embody holiness and spread the light of faith wherever you go. We need this among our younger Catholics, now more than ever.

Translated and adapted by the ACI Prensa team. This article was originally published by Catholic Herald in England, on July 9, 2024, and was later adapted and republished by CNA.