The Holy Father will canonise Blessed Carlo Acutis  in Rome on Sunday 27th April 2025. The canonisation will take place in the context of the Jubilee for Teenagers which will run from 24th-27th April. Given the now global popularity of this young friend of God, and the countless works of healing and grace which the Lord has been pleased to work through his intercession, the celebration will very probably witness a rather huge gathering of faithful from all over the world. 

Devotion to Blessed Carlo in our parishes has taken deep roots and produced much fruit in many people’s lives, often in surprising ways. Last summer, we obtained a first class relic of Blessed Carlo (hair cuttings) which it would be good to make available for people to see and venerate when they visit st. Mary’s in Largs. With the Bishop’s permission, it is hoped to erect a SHRINE TO BLESSED CARLO in St. Mary’s church, probably at the back of our current side aisle. The basic idea is to erect a “triptych” or three-panelled display: at the centre, will be a representation of Blessed Carlo and, on either side, representations of SS. Francis and Clare of Assisi. A few benches will be removed to make room for a votive candle stand and a kneeler. Our first class relic of Blessed Carlo will be embedded appropriately to ensure security and accessibility.

As an extraordinary expense, the project can only proceed if we raise enough funds to realise it. I have already received two very generous donations, totalling £1.5k. However, in order to produce something truly beautiful and worthy of our church, I think we want to aim higher, possibly between £7-£10k. My hope is that the shrine can become a place of pilgrimage for people who hear of it and in whose hearts there is already a devotion to Blessed Carlo and the other saints of Assisi. The main goal must remain to draw them closer to the Eucharist, to Christ Himself.

 If you are able to make a contribution towards this project (and I know not everyone is in these challenging times), I would be very grateful. Soon, on the contactless terminal, an option will be there to donate towards the Blessed Carlo shrine. Evidently, you can donate in any other way you wish. May God bless and prosper this project!

QR code and link to facilitate donations.

Blessed Carlo Shrine