From 8 to 13 September, the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle was blessed to host the major relic of St Carlo Acutis as it travelled through schools, parishes and communities across the region, giving thousands of people the opportunity to pray, honour, reflect and deepen their faith through this unique encounter with the Church’s first millennial saint.

Carlo Acutis was an ordinary teenager with an extraordinary love for Jesus, especially in the Eucharist. Using his talents in technology and digital communication, he shared the Gospel in innovative ways that continue to inspire young people and adults alike. His life reminds us that holiness is possible in every generation and that sainthood can be found in the ordinary moments of daily life.

St Carlo's relic is received in Newcastle

On 8 September, hundreds gathered at Sacred Heart Cathedral as Bishop Michael Kennedy formally received the relic on behalf of the Diocese. The Cathedral was filled to capacity for Mass and veneration, drawing people from across the region for the young saint whose devotion to the Eucharist and charitable spirit continue to resonate around the world. For many, it was a moving experience of prayer and renewal that set the tone for the days ahead.

The relic journeys to the Upper Hunter

The following day, the relic travelled to the Upper Hunter, where students from St Catherine’s Catholic College, Singleton, St James’ Primary School, Muswellbrook, and St Mary’s School, Scone, joined clergy, staff, parishioners and community members for a series of prayerful encounters.

The relic brings hope in maximum-security facility

In an Australian first, the relic was granted special access to a maximum-security correctional facility in the Hunter Valley.

The visit offered inmates and staff a rare opportunity for prayer and reflection, bringing a message of hope, dignity and redemption to those behind prison walls.

The relic visits Taree

The journey continued to St Clare’s Catholic College, Taree, where students, staff and families gathered for Mass and veneration. The visit was marked by a joyful spirit as the school community reflected on Carlo’s youthful witness, courage and commitment to living the Gospel.

 

 

The relic returns to Newcastle

One of the final stops took place over 12 and 13 September, when parishioners and community members welcomed the relic to Our Lady of Victories Church, Shortland, and Our Lady of Victories Primary School.

The visit provided another opportunity for people of all ages to pray before the relic and draw inspiration from Carlo’s enduring witness to Christ.

Staff encounter

As the pilgrimage drew to a close, the relic returned to the Diocesan offices, where staff gathered in prayer and veneration. It was a fitting conclusion to a remarkable week.

Over the course of its visit, thousands of people encountered St Carlo Acutis through moments of prayer, worship and reflection. While the relic has now continued its journey, Carlo’s message remains: to place Christ at the centre of our lives, seek holiness in everyday circumstances, and use our gifts to bring others closer to God.