At the Intense Youth Conference 2025, Fr. Dan Mahan (USCCB Office of Evangelization and Catechesis) brought with him a first-class relic of Blessed Carlo Acutis and shared a powerful reflection on faith, hope, and the presence of Christ in life’s storms .

Fr. Mahan recalls the beginnings of Intense in 2021, his personal encounter with Carlo’s mother, and the message that Carlo left for the world: “To be close to Jesus, that’s my life plan.”

🙏 Through stories of loss, consolation, and deep faith, Fr. Mahan reminds us that the Eucharist, the sacraments, and the intercession of the saints draw us closer to Christ — our Good Shepherd in every trial.

📖 Be inspired by the witness of Blessed Carlo and renew your own life plan: to walk with Jesus, follow Him, and share Him with others.