Rome: Pier Giorgio Frassati, born on April 6, 1901, to a prominent Italian family, left an indelible mark on the world despite his short life. Passing away at the age of 24 on July 4, 1925, he will be canonized tomorrow, September 7, by Pope Leo XIV, alongside the Church’s first millennial saint, Carlo Acutis. Known as “the man of the beatitudes,” Frassati has long been celebrated as a role model for youth worldwide.
Here are 12 remarkable facts that reveal the extraordinary life of this soon-to-be saint:
1. A childhood of charity
Though raised in a household with agnostic parents, Pier Giorgio’s inclination toward helping others appeared early. Once, when a mother and her shoeless son knocked at his door, he immediately gave his own shoes to the child.
2. Early devotion to the Eucharist
He joined the Marian Sodality and the Apostleship of Prayer at a young age, receiving permission to partake in daily Communion a rare privilege at the time.
3. A playful spirit
Among friends, Frassati earned the nickname “Il Terrore” (“The Terror”) for his love of practical jokes, showcasing a joyful and spirited personality alongside his deep faith.
4. Service through St. Vincent de Paul Society
At 17, he committed himself to helping the poor, sick, homeless, and demobilized soldiers from World War I, dedicating much of his free time to acts of charity.
5. Courageous opposition to fascism
In 1919, Frassati joined the Catholic Student Foundation and the Popular Party, standing firmly against Benito Mussolini’s rise. He was even jailed in Rome after protesting alongside the Catholic Workers’ Association.
6. Radical generosity
Pier Giorgio gave freely and wholeheartedly, often spending his bus fare on charity and running home to avoid missing meals a testament to his selfless spirit.
7. Passion for the mountains
An accomplished mountaineer, Frassati saw a spiritual dimension in climbing. He often organized trips where he and his companions would pray and discuss faith on the ascent and descent.
8. A simple note turned motto
After what would be his final climb, he wrote “Verso L’Alto” (“To the heights”) on a photograph a phrase that has since become a cherished Catholic motto.
9. Death from polio
Frassati contracted polio at 24, possibly from those he served in Turin’s slums. In his final days, he whispered the names of people in need to family and friends before passing away on July 4, 1925.
10. Beatified by Pope John Paul II
Declared Blessed in 1990, Frassati was lauded as a “joyful apostle of Christ” and a man who embodied the Beatitudes. John Paul II, reflecting on his own youth, acknowledged the lasting influence of Pier Giorgio’s example.
11. A sister’s tribute
In her biography, Frassati’s sister, Luciana, described him as embodying “the finest in Christian youth: pure, happy, enthusiastic about everything that is good and beautiful.”
12. Patron of youth and students worldwide
Frassati’s influence extends globally, particularly among young Catholics. He is regarded as the patron of students, youth groups, mountaineers, Dominican tertiaries, Catholic Action, and World Youth Day, inspiring countless initiatives and apostolates in his name.
Though his life was brief, Pier Giorgio Frassati’s faith, courage, and generosity continue to resonate across generations. His canonization tomorrow will not only honor his personal sanctity but also serve as a guiding beacon for young people navigating faith and service in the modern world.