Christian News,World Christian News,Malaysia Church,Religion Christianity
As Pope Francis announces the canonisation of Carlo Acutis next April, Fr Clément Barré reflects on models of holiness for young people. He highlights the risk that, by confining Carlo Acutis to this role, the Church might paradoxically weaken the universal reach of his witness.
The Church’s tendency to promote “Peter Pan saints” — idealised youthful figures who died before facing the complexities of adulthood — is not new. Before Carlo Acutis, there were St Dominic Savio and St Maria Goretti. These figures reveal an ecclesial fascination with an eternal, fantasised youth. Such idealisation can have a discouraging effect on young Catholics. How can they not feel overwhelmed by these models of early perfection? The “freshness” and “spontaneity” of adolescent faith are valuable but cannot be the sole spiritual horizon offered to youth. Christian maturity also involves navigating deserts, persevering over time, and deepening faith through trials.
This also reflects the Church’s hesitation to allow a genuinely youthful voice that speaks to everyone. This challenge surfaced in the recent Synod, where many young people felt ignored. Yes, a 16-year-old in sneakers can teach the whole church about love for the Eucharist, missionary zeal, and service to the poor. Yes, young people have a rightful place in the church's structure and governance, serving everyone.
Catholic News World Christian News Malaysia Islam Muslims Allah Dioceses Parishes Pope Nuns Priests
Malaysia Latest News, Malaysia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
US Catholics seek out prayer on Election DayChristian News,World Christian News,Malaysia Church,Religion Christianity
Read more »
Church must embark on 'very serious process' on Sodalitium: CardinalChristian News,World Christian News,Malaysia Church,Religion Christianity
Read more »
US Catholics seek out prayer on Election DayChristian News,World Christian News,Malaysia Church,Religion Christianity
Read more »
Church must embark on 'very serious process' on Sodalitium: CardinalChristian News,World Christian News,Malaysia Church,Religion Christianity
Read more »
Pope Francis entrusts Valencia to Our Lady of the ForsakenChristian News,World Christian News,Malaysia Church,Religion Christianity
Read more »
Archbishop Broglio: US Bishops pray for unity and all elected leadersChristian News,World Christian News,Malaysia Church,Religion Christianity
Read more »