Living Example of Saint Pier Giorgio Frassati Illustrates the Path to 'Holiness in Everyday Life'
A Man of the Beatitudes: The Life and Legacy of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati
Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, a soon-to-be saint, was born on April 6, 1901, in Turin, Italy, to Adelaide Ametis and Alfredo Frassati. He was a man of many facets, known for his charitable spirit, his love for the outdoors, and his zest for life.
At the tender age of 17, Frassati joined the Society of St. Vincent de Paul to care for the poor and the wounded soldiers returning from World War I. This marked the beginning of his lifelong commitment to personal charity and social causes.
In 1919, Frassati joined Catholic Action, an organisation that promoted the church's social teaching. His involvement deepened his understanding of the importance of serving the marginalised and downtrodden. This conviction led him to study mining engineering at the Royal Polytechnic University of Turin, a decision influenced by his desire to help those in need.
Frassati was not just a man of action; he was also a man of faith. He was reverent and composed at church, and his devotion to the Eucharist and Mary was profound. His faith made religion look fun and attractive, and he was known to make it a point to engage with Catholic groups as a child, seeking to receive daily Communion.
Despite his serious nature, Frassati was also known to be a practical joker. He earned the nickname "Fracassi," as in "fracas" - a noisy disturbance. He was manly, rugged, humorous, athletic, and enjoyed skiing and mountaineering, art and music, and poetry and theater.
As his health began to deteriorate in late June 1925, likely due to contracting polio while visiting Turin's sick and poor, Frassati's mind remained on his friends and the less fortunate. He implored his sister, Luciana, to deliver medicine and other promised items to those in need whom he regularly visited. Even in his suffering, he continued to show compassion and care for others.
St. John Paul II described Frassati as a "man of the beatitudes" at his beatification. His funeral was attended by hundreds of Turin's poor, revealing the fullness of his charity. His body was moved to the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Turin after his beatification in 1990.
Pope Leo XIV plans to canonize Frassati on September 7. The organization FrassatiUSA announced that they will organize a pilgrimage for the canonization of Frassati and Carlo Acutis at St. Peter's Square, where the Holy Mass and canonization will be celebrated.
The canonization of Frassati this year, a century after his death, is believed to be part of God's plan, according to Maria Wiering. Frassati's life serves as a testament to the power of faith, compassion, and service, and his legacy continues to inspire countless individuals around the world.
