Why does the life of Carlo Acutis matter so much right now?
Blessed Carlo Acutis is scheduled to be canonized Sunday, April 27. He died at the age of 15 after battling leukemia. He is known for creating a website that catalogued the Eucharistic miracles.
I truly feel that Carlo's canonization is divine timing in so many ways right now. We are living in such a unique, pivotal time in history, particularly regarding AI. And we can learn so much from Carlo's approach to technology.
We are also in a time of the faith rapidly progressing throughout the world. As we seek to disciple the next generation of believers, our methods are evolving. A one-and-done transactional approach to the Sacraments is thoroughly unacceptable. We are inviting people into an ongoing relationship with Jesus.
How can wisdom from Carlo Acutis guide us with our use of AI?
Personally, I have been resistant to AI to some extent. I feel repulsed by the word "artificial," especially in conjunction with the next word: "intelligence" - a divine gift so unique to God and His creation. Artificial flavors, for example, are known to be addictive and cause health issues. And the threats associated with AI are much worse - financial devastation from loss of jobs, intelligent robots taking over the world... Doom and gloom narratives abound. Also, I personally prefer personal interactions and prioritizing unplugging from technology, EMFs, etc.
So what can we learn from Carlo Acutis? While I did not know him personally, I know that as a saint, his life was characterized by faith rather than fear. He sought the will of God, as we are all called to do. He utilized creative approaches to Evangelization, recognizing technological tools as opportunities to further the Kingdom of God.
Leveraging AI for the Kingdom of God
Honestly, when we consider what AI truly is... Is it really artificial? Sure, it is intelligence that is not stored in a human brain. Does that make it artificial? I would prefer to think of AI as "collective" intelligence. AI uses information from humans, organizing it and processing it efficiently and productively, in a manner that can be utilized to solve big problems that we were unable to effectively solve before.
Personally, I am curious how AI can generate useful systematic theology to point us to deeper understandings of Truth.
As believers, however we engage with technology, AI, and the world around us, let's do it with eyes of faith, trusting in God, and discerning with the Holy Spirit as we seek wisdom.
So, as we reflect on the life of Carlo Acutis, especially in this season of his canonization as a saint, I hope we are all inspired to become saints as well. We are here, right now, for a purpose. We are uniquely gifted and called to glorify God with our lives. Thanks be to God - for Carlo Acutis, for the breath in our lungs, for our Risen Savior, for the Holy Spirit, for the love of the Father, and the witness of all of the saints. May the Lord lead us to follow Him in all things.
And in honor of Blessed Carlo Acutis, I invite you to pray this poetic prayer, crafted utilizing AI:
O God, whose love embraces every soul,
We lift our hearts as evening shadows roll,
To celebrate a spirit, pure and bright,
A modern beacon, shining in Your light.
For Carlo Acutis, young and full of grace,
Whose earthly journey left a sacred trace,
A digital apostle, heart aflame,
Who whispered Your dear Son's most holy name.
He saw the Eucharist, a living sign,
A miracle of love, both yours and thine,
And with devotion, fervent and sincere,
He brought its wonder to the doubting ear.
He walked the paths of life with joyful stride,
Where faith and technology became his guide,
A witness true to beauty, truth, and good,
A light that pierced the world as best he could.
Though brief his years upon this mortal sphere,
His love for You cast out all doubt and fear,
He showed the power of a heart so kind,
A gentle strength for all of us to find.
So thank You, Lord, for Carlo's vibrant soul,
A story whispered, making spirits whole,
May his example, radiant and clear,
Inspire our hearts to hold Your presence near.
Amen.
