The upcoming canonization of Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint, is set to inspire millions around the world, including a young boy in Mexico named Alex Espinosa. At just 9 years old, Alex views Acutis not only as a role model but as a “friend,” aspiring to live his life in a similar way.

On November 20, 2024, Pope Francis announced that Carlo Acutis will be canonized during the Jubilee of Teenagers in Rome, scheduled for April 25-27, 2025. The ceremony will take place on the morning of Sunday, April 27, at St. Peter’s Square. This historic moment is a testament to the life of a young man who lived “an ordinary life in an extraordinary way,” and it resonates deeply with young followers like Alex.

Alex's devotion to Carlo began when he was only four years old. In 2020, when Acutis was proclaimed a blessed, Alex was intrigued by his family’s growing interest in the young saint. His mother, María Espinosa, remembers Alex's curious reaction when he first heard about Acutis. It wasn’t long before Alex declared that they needed to "have our suitcases ready for heaven," echoing the saint's simple yet profound approach to life and faith.

This early connection led Alex to imitate Acutis in small but significant ways. For instance, on All Saints’ Day, Alex dressed as Carlo Acutis, showing his admiration for the soon-to-be saint. As the family's devotion to Carlo deepened, they began sharing their faith journey on social media, gaining the admiration of fellow Catholics worldwide.

In recognition of their devotion, the family was gifted relics of Carlo Acutis, which have played a crucial role in Alex’s spiritual growth. María reflects on how these relics have become a constant reminder of Acutis’ virtuous life, encouraging Alex to help those in need, just as Carlo did. Inspired by Acutis’ early devotion, Alex also expressed a desire to receive his First Communion “like Carlo Acutis, at the age of seven.” Despite being under the usual age for Communion, Alex received the sacrament just two days before turning eight. His mother recalls that it was a very special moment for him, as he proudly told others, “I did it just like Carlo Acutis, when he was seven.”

But Alex’s faith wasn’t just reflected in grand gestures. His devotion was evident even in his daily actions. On his recent birthday, Alex chose to celebrate with an image of Carlo Acutis, showing that his admiration for the saint is a part of his everyday life. His mother believes that Alex’s simple but powerful testimony of faith serves as a reminder to others, especially his classmates, of the importance of living out one’s beliefs from a young age.

Alex’s devotion has also borne witness to a miraculous event. In March 2024, when Alex’s father, Alejandro, was diagnosed with a lung tumor, the family turned to Carlo Acutis for intercession. A close friend gifted Alejandro a relic of Carlo, which Alex placed on his father’s chest while praying for his healing. The following morning, Alejandro’s health dramatically improved, with doctors noting a significant reduction in the tumor's size. María describes this as a miracle, a clear sign of Carlo Acutis’ intercession and the power of Alex’s pure-hearted prayers.

During a visit to Assisi, Alex's parents bought him a book about Carlo Acutis, which allowed Alex to feel an even closer connection to the saint. The boy now sees Carlo as his friend, commenting, “He likes soccer, Nutella, and video games.” This personal connection to the saint makes Alex’s faith even more real and tangible.

María, who is a mother to five children, offers valuable advice to other parents raising their children in the faith. She emphasizes the importance of setting a good example for children, as they learn by observing their parents. She believes that faith should be naturally integrated into family life, whether through simple acts like prayer before meals or being thankful for everyday blessings. The goal, she says, is not to force faith upon children but to make it a natural, fun, and loving part of their lives.

Through the life of Carlo Acutis, Alex Espinosa’s spiritual journey serves as an inspiring example of how even the youngest hearts can embrace faith and devotion with authenticity and joy.