A deeply cherished religious relic linked to Blessed Carlo Acutis was stolen in broad daylight from a parish in Paraná, Argentina, sparking a community-wide effort to recover it.

The relic, which contains hair and a fingernail from the soon-to-be canonized teenager, was taken from St. Dominic Savio Parish on July 25, 2025, in an incident now under active police investigation, Catholic News Agency reported.

Security video from the parish captured a couple removing the relic from its bolted case shortly after noon. The parish staff discovered the theft soon after and alerted authorities, setting off an urgent investigation.

Security Footage Captures Theft in Progress

The artifact was housed in a specially created display area behind glass, where it had been since 2021. That area featured a reliquary with an image of Carlo Acutis in casual clothing, reflecting his everyday teenage identity.

According to police, the individuals were seen calmly entering the church before breaking into the locked case and taking the relic. Father Walter Minigutti, the parish priest, said surveillance footage is now being analyzed to identify the suspects.

In an interview with local media outlet El Once, Father Minigutti expressed heartbreak over the loss. "This is truly a very sad day for us, and we need our saint to return to the parish," he said, referring to the captured security footage being circulated to help identify the individuals involved.

Spiritual Value Overshadows Material Worth

Father Minigutti emphasized that while the relic lacks monetary value, its spiritual and emotional weight is immense for the community. “I beg whoever took the relics to return them,” he urged, echoing the sentiments of local parishioners.

The relic was a first-class one, containing parts of the body of Blessed Carlo Acutis—a revered Italian teenager known for his devotion to the Eucharist and use of modern technology for evangelization. The parish community considers the relic a profound connection to the emerging saint’s legacy.

Father Minigutti expressed special concern for the community’s spiritual wellbeing, framing the theft as a deep emotional loss. “The sentimental, religious, and spiritual value he holds for the community is incalculable,” he stated.

Upcoming Events Highlight Community Connection

The theft comes just weeks before Acutis's canonization, scheduled for September 7, 2025. His official feast day will be observed on October 12, the day of his death, and serves as an annual point of reflection for the parish.

St. Dominic Savio Parish has long honored Acutis through monthly Masses each 12th of the month. The upcoming August 12 service will mark the fourth anniversary of the relic’s enthronement in the church, now overshadowed by its absence.

In addition to religious observances, a school is currently being built on parish grounds in Acutis’s name, further emphasizing the parish’s commitment to continuing his legacy. Father Minigutti described Acutis as “a modern example of faith,” particularly admired for attending Mass daily and using the internet as a spiritual tool.

Community Appeals for Help and Prayers

The parish has made public pleas for the relic's return, appealing not only to law enforcement but also to residents. “If anyone knows these people or just finds these relics, please bring them back to the parish,” said Father Minigutti in a widely shared message.

As of July 31, there have been no major developments in the case. The police continue to investigate, while church officials work closely with authorities and the local community.

Despite the setback, Father Minigutti remains hopeful. “We pray to the Lord and the blessed that this cherished relic may return,” he said, echoing the parish’s faith that justice and restoration are still possible.

Faith in the Community Remains Strong

Father Minigutti expressed trust in both the residents of Paraná and those in the Santa Lucía neighborhood, where the church is located. “This is devastating for us because it’s something very dear to us, but I have great faith and confidence” in the community, he said.

The priest described the place housing the relic as intentionally designed so that churchgoers—especially the youth—could tangibly relate to Acutis. “He is a very contemporary saint, close to young people, and his life conveys a powerful message about faith in the present time,” he explained.

As the investigation unfolds, parish leaders continue to call for vigilance, support, and information that might lead to the relic’s recovery. For now, the case remains open and unresolved, with the faithful holding onto hope.