In Acts 2:40, St. Peter preached to the crowd, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.”
It is not hard to see the necessity of St. Peter's plea to us in our world today. This is especially true in the digital world. The background of this painting hosts computer algorithms which are symbolic of human calculations – empty of God’s plan. How do we handle such corruption infiltrated into our current times? Soon-to-be-Saint Carlo Acutis is an excellent example of one who brings virtue to a wayward and perverse culture.
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The world is already filled with niceties. But there is a profound cry for something more effective. As I painted his portrait, I asked Carlo to help me. One simple way came to mind. I was reminded that we are asked to pray for our confessors before the sacrament of Reconciliation. How about asking our guardian angels to meet with the guardian angels of our teachers and classmates before school, doctors before an appointment, or whomever it is that we are to meet for a holy encounter? Carlo told us to become best friends with our guardian angel. His angel is represented in a praying position on the right side of the image. There are symbols of Playstation 2 at the bottom left of the painting. He loved this video game and decided to limit himself to one hour a week as a practice of penance and spiritual discipline.​​
Most importantly, the monstrance and image of a Eucharistic miracle is the focal point. The Great God Almighty continuously humbles Himself with radical kenosis by entering into a host in order to gain intimacy with us. Jesus is portrayed in the painting as he did to St. Maria Faustina Kowalska, who started the powerful devotion to Divine Mercy.
"All people are born as originals but many die as photocopies."
Carlo’s proclamation of Truth, Beauty, and Goodness in the digital world through his website speaks volumes which cannot be denied. He said, “All people are born as originals but many die as photocopies.” If we model ourselves after the passing stars of this world, we lose our unique identity. Conversely, when we look to Our Blessed Mother and Jesus to be our role model as our Morning Star for guidance, we become more and more original. Our personal talents grow. We are able to participate in the greatest plan.... giving glory to God in our own special way.Carlo said, “ The Virgin Mary is the only woman in my life.” Our Lady looking toward Christ is hidden within the Monstrance as well. Earlier, in Acts 2:38,St. Peter promised repentant and baptized sinners the forgiveness of sin, "...and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” I believe St. Peter.