St. Pier Giorgio Frassati, mountain enthusiast, student, fun-loving, and passionate Catholic, was born in Italy in 1901 and died when he was only 24.
Born to a wealthy family, he used his privileged position to secretly support the poor. He led an ordinary life that most young people can relate to. He orchestrated pranks and parties, loved the outdoors, and struggled with his parents, his studies, and the direction of his future, all the while demonstrating his deep love of Christ and the Eucharist.
A short paragraph of writing cannot do justice to the extraordinary ordinariness of his short life. He is an ideal role model and intercessor for today’s youth.
“I would like to tell you that the canonization of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati is now clear on the horizon and looming for the next jubilee year.”
Cardinal Marcello Semeraro (prefect of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints)
St. Pier’s Commitment To Charity
Pier Giorgio Frassati was born in Turin, Italy, on April 6, 1901, into a wealthy family. His father founded and directed the newspaper La Stampa, while his mother, a talented painter, passed on to him a deep love of God. As a young man, Pier Giorgio developed a profound life of faith and became actively involved in several Catholic organizations. Known for his cheerful spirit, enthusiasm, and athleticism, he nourished his spiritual life through daily Mass, frequent Holy Communion, and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. At the age of 24, he contracted a severe case of polio and died just one week later, on July 4, 1925, after offering his short life completely to God. Reflecting on his witness, Pope John Paul II said, “Only the revolution of charity can kindle in the hearts of men the hope of a better future.”
“When you are totally consumed by the Eucharistic fire, then you will be able more consciously to thank God, who has called you to become part of His family. Then you will enjoy the peace that those who are happy in this world have never experienced, because true happiness, oh young people, does not consist in the pleasures of this world, or in earthly things, but in peace of conscience, which we only have if we are pure of heart and mind.”
St.. Pier Giorgio Frassati
Saint Pier Giorgio Frassati Resources
To the Heights: A Novel Based on the Life of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati
The Frassati Field Guide: An 8-Day Ascent to Heroic Virtue with Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati
Pier Giorgio Frassati: To The Heights
St. Pier Giorgio Frassati Doll
