Saint Stories: Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati

Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati was born in Turin, Italy in 1901 into a devout Catholic family. His parents instilled strong Christian values in him from an early age, laying the foundation for his deep faith and commitment to serving others.

Despite his aristocratic background, Frassati had a simple and down-to-earth demeanor. He had a great love for the outdoors and was an avid hiker and mountaineer. His love for sports, particularly mountain climbing, not only brought him joy but also provided him with opportunities to connect with others and share his faith. His most famous quote is “Verso L’Alto” which means “To the heights.” which was Frassati’s personal motto emphasizing his passion striving to reach the summit of eternal life with Christ.

On the occasion of Frassati’s beatification St. Pope John Paul II described him as a man “entirely immersed in the mystery of God and totally dedicated to the constant service of his neighbor.” 

He was deeply passionate about social justice and dedicated much of his life to serving the poor and marginalized. Frassati joined the St. Vincent de Paul society at 17 years old and in addition, volunteered in numerous other charitable organizations, aiding those in need and advocating for the rights of the oppressed. 

Frassati had a deep prayer life and was devoted to attending Mass and receiving the sacraments regularly. His commitment to the sacramental life of the Church highlights the importance of nurturing our relationship with God. He found strength and inspiration in his relationship with God, which fueled his desire to live a life of virtue and holiness.

He said that prayer “is the most efficient means to obtain from God the graces which we need, and especially the strength of persevering in these times, in which the hatred of the sons of the devil is breaking out violently against the sheep who are faithful to the fold.”

His joyful and infectious personality attracted many to the Catholic faith. He lived his faith with enthusiasm and authenticity, inspiring others through his words and actions.  Frassati’s courage in living out his faith shows us that living as a disciple of Christ should bring us true joy and fulfillment, inspiring others to seek the same.

Frassati faced oppression from his family due to his activism and involvement in Catholic youth organizations. Despite this, he remained steadfast in his convictions and continued to live out his faith fearlessly. 

He said, “We Catholics must strive to have our whole life guided by Christian moral law. Then there is the apostolate of charity by going among those who suffer and comforting them, among the unfortunate and saying a comforting word to them, because the Catholic religion is based on charity which is nothing other than the most perfect Love.”

He remained humble throughout a life of accomplishment, always prioritizing serving others over seeking recognition for himself. Frassati died at 24 years old, after contracting polio (most likely) while serving the poor. He saw Christ in the poor and marginalized and sought to uplift them through his compassionate actions. In an address to young people said, “We must sacrifice everything for everything: our ambitions, indeed our entire selves, for the cause of the Faith.” 

Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, the prefect of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, announced in April of this year that Bl. Frassati’s canonization is “on the horizon” and can be expected in the Church’s 2025 Jubilee Year. 

This summer let us heed the example of Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati which reminds us that true greatness lies in our ability to love and serve those in need. Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati, pray for us that we may all live in a way that helps us reach the heights of heaven.