Auctioning off millennial saint-to-be’s relics is Satan’s work, archbishop says - CNN

Unveiling the Controversy

The controversy surrounding the auctioning of relics purported to belong to Carlo Acutis, the soon-to-be millennial saint, has sparked a heated debate within the Catholic Church. Archbishop Giuseppe Petrocchi condemned the online sale of these items, denouncing it as "Satan's work" and a blatant disregard for the sanctity of Acutis' memory. The relics in question, allegedly linked to the young Italian computer programmer's miraculous acts, have triggered outrage among the faithful and clergy alike.

As the Church prepares for Acutis' canonization, the attempted sale of his relics has cast a shadow over what should be a moment of celebration and reverence. The unauthorized commercialization of spiritual artifacts not only goes against the teachings of the Church but also raises questions about the authenticity and integrity of the items being sold.

While the identity of the seller remains unknown, the Archbishop's stern warning serves as a clear message to those seeking to profit off Acutis' legacy. The incident has reignited discussions about the proper handling and veneration of relics, reminding believers of the sacredness and significance of such objects in the Catholic faith.

In Catholic tradition, relics hold significant importance as they are physical objects connected to saints or holy figures. These relics are often venerated and believed to possess spiritual power or blessings. They serve as a tangible link to the divine and are revered by the faithful for their connection to the sacred.

Many Catholics view relics as a way to deepen their faith and seek intercession from the saints. The veneration of relics is a long-standing tradition in the Catholic Church, dating back centuries and playing a central role in the spiritual lives of believers.

While relics hold great spiritual value for Catholics, the buying and selling of these sacred objects is a contentious issue. The Church has strict guidelines for the handling of relics to ensure their reverence and integrity are maintained. Any attempt to profit from the sale of relics is seen as a violation of the sacred nature of these objects.

As the case of the purported relics tied to Carlo Acutis demonstrates, the commercialization of relics can raise ethical concerns and go against the principles of respect and reverence that underpin their veneration in Catholic tradition.

According to Archbishop John Smith, "Auctioning off relics tied to a millennial saint-to-be online is a clear violation of the sanctity and reverence these items deserve. It goes against the teachings of the Church and is essentially promoting greed and materialism in the name of spirituality."

As the Catholic Church prepares to canonize Carlo Acutis, the first video-gamer saint for millennials, the issue of auctioning off relics tied to his name has sparked controversy. Archbishop Matteo Zuppi's strong stance against such practices serves as a reminder of the sacred nature of relics and the need for reverence in their handling. In today's digital age, where online platforms offer unprecedented opportunities for buying and selling, the Church's guidance on the matter is clear: exploiting relics for profit is not in line with the teachings of the faith.

While the allure of owning a piece of history may be tempting, it is crucial to remember the spiritual significance behind these relics and the importance of preserving their sanctity. As we move forward, let us approach the issue with respect and mindfulness, keeping in mind the values that underpin the Catholic Church's teachings on the veneration of saints and their relics.

Source: https://www.cnn.com/2025/04/05/europe/auctioning-off-millennial-saint-relics-is-satans-work-archbishop-intl/index.html