13 Inspiring Saints for Young People
September 23, 2024 by Elizabeth Bavaro
In May, Pope Francis announced that the Church had approved the canonization of Blessed Carlo Acutis, a 15-year-old Italian boy who died of leukemia in 2006. Carlo's life, centered on love of God and neighbor, proved that holiness is for everyone, even seemingly "normal" teenagers. When he is canonized in 2025, he will become the first saint from the millennial generation, joining a remarkable group of young saints whose lives serve as powerful examples for the youth of today.
Here are 13 inspirational young saints whose age did not prevent them from living holy lives:
Saint Philomena
Born: Unknown
Died: Unknown (believed to be a martyr in the 2nd century)
Age: About 13
Canonized: 1837
Saint Philomena is a young saint who has captivated the hearts of many faithful, despite the limited historical records about her life. In the early 19th century, an unexcavated tomb was discovered in the Catacombs of Priscilla in Rome. The tomb contained an inscription of the name "Philomena." Rough inscriptions of arrows, a lily, a lance, and an anchor indicated that she was a martyr and how she was killed.
According to the mystical revelations of Mother Maria Luisa di Gesu, a Dominican nun, Saint Philomena was a young girl of noble birth in the Roman Empire. Following her conversion to Christianity, she rejected the advances of a Roman emperor who wished to marry her. In response to her steadfast refusal and commitment to purity, she was subjected to torture and ultimately met a martyr's death.
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Saint Philomena is invoked for various causes, including healing, purity, and youth. The devotion to her spread rapidly after her canonization, and many miracles have been attributed to her intercession, making her a beloved figure among the faithful.
Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati
Born: April 6, 1901
Died: July 4, 1925
Age: 24
Beatified: 1990
Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati was an Italian youth known for his vibrant faith and love for adventure. Born in Turin to a well-off family, Pier Giorgio was a student and outdoor enthusiast who enjoyed hiking and swimming. Despite the privileges of his social status, he remained dedicated to serving the poor with the Society of St Vincent de Paul.
Pier Giorgio's commitment to his faith was evident in his life. He regularly attended Mass, prayed the Rosary, and worked to help the marginalized. Inspired by the writings of Saint Catherine of Siena, he joined the Lay Dominicans.
One of Pier Giorgio’s most distinguishing characteristics was his unwavering joy and optimistic spirit. His friends often noted his infectious laughter and genuine kindness, which drew others to him, particularly those in need. His life was a testament to the belief that holiness can be encountered in everyday actions, whether through social engagements or community service. After he contracted polio while helping care for the sick, Pier Giorgio died at the age of 24.
Today, he is a patron for youth and students, reminding them that true adventure lies in following Christ, practicing virtues, and serving others.
Saint José Sánchez del Río
Born: March 28, 1913
Died: February 10, 1928
Age: 14
Canonized: 2016
Saint José Sánchez del Río, a young martyr of the Catholic faith, serves as a testament to unwavering conviction and bravery in the face of persecution. Born in 1913 in Sahuayo, Michoacán, Mexico, José grew up in a devout Catholic family. From an early age, he was deeply influenced by the teachings of the Church and developed a strong devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe, which would later embolden his faith during the tumultuous times of the Cristero War.
The Cristero War, a conflict that erupted in Mexico during the late 1920s, was marked by fierce governmental oppression aimed at dismantling the influence of the Catholic Church. As the Mexican government implemented strict anti-Catholic measures, many faithful, including José, felt called to defend their beliefs. Though José was only a child, he yearned to join the rebel forces fighting for religious freedom. His resolute spirit compelled him to participate in the cause as a flagbearer, despite being too young to bear arms.
In 1928, José was captured by government forces. Rather than renouncing his faith, he stood firm in his beliefs, enduring severe torture and hardship. His courage in the face of immense suffering was exemplified by his defiant proclamation, “I will never give in. Vivo Cristo Rey y Santa Maria de Guadalupe!” which translates to “Long live Christ the King and Holy Mary of Guadalupe!” This fearless assertion of faith ultimately led to his martyrdom at the age of 14.
Saint Kateri Tekakwitha
Born: 1656
Died: 1680
Age: 24
Canonized: 2012
Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, known as the "Lily of the Mohawks," was born around 1656 in what is now New York. She was the daughter of a Christian Algonquin mother and a Mohawk father. When Kateri was just four years old, a smallpox outbreak claimed the lives of her family, leaving her orphaned and marked with scars from the disease. She was raised by her uncle, the chief of the Mohawk tribe, who upheld pagan beliefs.
At the age of 19, Kateri encountered Catholic missionaries and was drawn to their teachings. Her conversion to Catholicism was a pivotal moment in her life, yet it came with profound challenges. Embracing her newfound faith in a society that largely rejected Christianity, Kateri faced ostracism from her tribe.
In 1676, she made the radical decision to leave her homeland and journey to a Catholic mission village near Montreal, where she could freely practice her faith. Saint Kateri's earthly journey was short-lived. She passed away at the age of 24 on April 17, 1680. Today, she is celebrated as the patron saint of ecology and the environment, as well as of Native Americans.
Blessed Carlo Acutis
Born: May 3, 1991
Died: October 12, 2006
Age: 15
Beatified: 2020
Blessed Carlo Acutis, known as the "Patron of the Internet" and the "Patron of Computer Programmers," was an Italian teenager who demonstrated how modern technology could be harnessed for evangelization and spreading the Catholic faith.
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Wooden Statue of Blessed Carlo Acutis (Dog & Soccer Ball) | Ferdinand Stuflesser
His life was characterized by a profound devotion to the Eucharist. This deep spiritual life inspired him to create a comprehensive website that cataloged and documented every Eucharistic miracle recognized by the Church. His passion for technology and computer coding was not for personal gain; instead, Carlo channeled his skills into a project aimed at educating others about these miracles, emphasizing the importance of the Eucharist.
At the young age of 15, Carlo was diagnosed with leukemia and died a week later. Though he understood how sick he was, Carlo accepted his illness gracefully, offering up his sufferings for the Church and the Pope.
Saint Aloysius Gonzaga
Born: March 9, 1568
Died: June 21, 1591
Age: 23
Canonized: 1726
Saint Aloysius Gonzaga, born in 1568 into an aristocratic family in Italy, was the eldest son of a nobleman, destined to inherit his father’s title as Marquis. However, Aloysius’s heart was drawn not to worldly power, but to a life of religious devotion. At the age of 17, he made the decision to renounce his noble heritage and join the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), inspired by the missionary work of Jesuit priests in India.
Aloysius was known for his purity and exceptional charity, qualities that were evident even in his youth. His dedication to God was reflected in his daily life; he practiced rigorous self-discipline and a deep commitment to prayer. While studying in Rome, he lived a life of simplicity, often serving the poor and the sick. His compassion was particularly evident during times of crisis, such as during the epidemic that struck the city, where he selflessly cared for those afflicted by the disease.
Saint Aloysius’s life was cut short when he succumbed to the very epidemic he sought to alleviate, passing away at the age of 23 in 1591.
Blessed Chiara Badano
Born: October 29, 1971
Died: October 7, 1990
Age: 18
Beatified: 2010
Blessed Chiara Badano, known for her radiant spirit and unwavering faith, was born on October 29, 1971, in Sassello, Italy. She lived a life marked by joy and an extraordinary commitment to God, even in the face of immense suffering. At just 17 years old, Chiara was diagnosed with osteogenic sarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of bone cancer. Rather than succumbing to despair, she approached her illness with remarkable courage and grace.
From the age of 9, Chiara was actively involved in the Focolare Movement, a lay ecclesial movement dedicated to promoting unity and love among people. She maintained a correspondence with Chiara Lubich, the founder of the movement, sharing her experiences and insights. Her commitment to living the Gospel was evident in her daily interactions, as she strived to embody the values of love, service, and unity.
Throughout her illness, Chiara chose to forgo morphine and pain relief, opting instead to offer her sufferings to Jesus Christ. This decision was not born merely out of personal conviction, but from a desire to unite her pain with the Passion of Christ, demonstrating her profound love for Him. Her joyful demeanor remained intact as she inspired fellow patients and caregivers alike, often lifting their spirits with her infectious optimism. Chiara's ability to find beauty and purpose in her suffering made her a beacon of hope for many.
Saints Francisco and Jacinta Marto
Born: Francisco: June 11, 1908; Jacinta: March 5, 1910
Died: Francisco: April 4, 1919; Jacinta: February 20, 1920
Ages: Francisco: 10; Jacinta: 9
Canonized: 2017
Saints Francisco and Jacinta Marto are remembered for their pivotal role in the apparitions of Our Lady of Fatima, which occurred in 1917 in Portugal. These two young siblings were among three shepherd children who experienced a series of visions, where they reported seeing the Virgin Mary.
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During the six apparitions from May to October 1917, the children received messages from Mary, urging them to pray for peace and the conversion of sinners. Mary emphasized the importance of the Rosary and encouraged the children to promote devotion to her Immaculate Heart. Despite their young ages, Francisco and Jacinta took these messages to heart, offering their small sacrifices for the salvation of souls and for the peace of the world.
Blessed Imelda Lambertini
Born: 1322
Died: May 12, 1333
Age: 11
Beatified: 1826
Blessed Imelda Lambertini is a saint deeply cherished by many, particularly by children preparing for their First Communion. Born in Bologna, Italy, she displayed an early passion for the Eucharist and a profound love for Jesus. Orphaned at a young age, Imelda joined the Dominican nuns at the age of 9 and quickly became known for her exceptional piety and devotion.
Imelda’s short life was marked by a single, significant event that would shape her legacy. When she was 11 years old, she longed to receive her First Holy Communion. However, at that time the age for First Communion was about 15. Despite her youth, Imelda’s fervent belief in the presence of Christ in the Eucharist and her sincere desire to unite with Him drew the attention of the nuns.
While the other nuns were preparing for Mass, Imelda, overcome by her desire, was found in the chapel, her heart full of longing. In a miraculous moment, it is said that a host hovered above her head, signifying her worthy desire to receive Communion. The priest took the host from the air and gave Imelda her First Communion. Kneeling in perfect happiness and thanksgiving, Imelda's soul departed her body as she joined God in heaven.
Saint Tarcisius
Born: Unknown; likely early 3rd century
Died: 275
Age: Teenager
Canonized: Venerated since ancient times
Saint Tarcisius is known as the patron saint of altar boys and first communicants. He suffered martyrdom during a time of intense persecution against Christians in the early Church. It is said that he was a young boy who was entrusted with carrying the Eucharist to Christians imprisoned for their faith.
As Saint Tarcisius made his way to deliver the sacred Communion, he encountered a group of Roman soldiers who demanded that he hand over what he was carrying. Rather than relinquish the sacred hosts, Tarcisius bravely declared his commitment to Jesus Christ, stating that he would never allow the Body of Christ to be profaned. Ultimately, Tarcisius was brutally beaten to death rather than betray his faith and the sanctity of the Eucharist.
Blessed Sandra Sabattini
Born: August 19, 1961
Died: March 2, 1984
Age: 22
Beatified: October 24, 2021
Blessed Sandra Sabattini was a vibrant young woman whose life was characterized by her deep faith and dedication to helping others. When she was a young child, Sandra could be found praying in church before the Blessed Sacrament in the early morning and late at night. At the age of 12 she joined the Pope John XXIII community, which was dedicated to serving the poor and disabled. She gave money to the poor from her own savings and lived for a time as a volunteer in one of the community's group homes for the disabled.
When she graduated from high school with good grades, Sandra had to decide between becoming a missionary in Africa and going to medical school. She decided to continue her education so that she could use the skills she learned to better help the poor.
Sandra’s life was cut short when she was killed in a car accident at the age of 22 on her way to a meeting of the Pope John XXII community. Blessed Sandra's life is a beautiful modern-day example of wholehearted dedication to helping others in the name of Christ.
Saint Therese of Lisieux
Born: January 2, 1873
Died: September 30, 1897
Age: 24
Canonized: 1925
Saint Therese of Lisieux, often referred to as "The Little Flower," is a beloved saint known for her simplicity and profound spiritual insights. From a very young age, Therese exhibited a deep love for God and a fervent desire to dedicate her life to spiritual pursuits. The youngest of nine children, her early life was marked by significant sorrow, including the loss of her mother at a young age, which deepened her faith and reliance on God.
At the age of 15, Therese entered the Carmelite convent in Lisieux, where she embraced a life of prayer, humility, and service. Despite the challenges and struggles of cloistered life, she remained steadfast in her commitment to God’s will. Therese wrote that one does not need to perform extraordinary deeds to achieve holiness; rather, it is through the small, everyday acts of love and selflessness that one can grow closer to God.
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Therese's unique approach to spirituality, often termed "The Little Way," emphasizes the importance of simplicity and trust in God. She believed that even the smallest acts, performed with great love, could carry profound significance. Her writings, particularly in her autobiography "Story of a Soul," have inspired countless people, inviting them to embrace their own daily struggles and joys as pathways to grace.
Throughout her short life in the convent, she faced various trials, including physical illness and spiritual dryness, which tested her faith. Yet, she remained enthusiastic about being an instrument of God's love, whether it was through a kind word to a fellow sister or dedicated prayers for those in need.
Before her death at the age of 24 from tuberculosis, Therese made a powerful promise: to spend her heaven doing good on earth.
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