Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati on His Way to Sainthood: 10 Facts to Know

Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati on His Way to Sainthood: A Look at His Inspiring Life

In an exciting announcement made by Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, the head of the Vatican’s office for saints’ causes, it was revealed that Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati could be declared a saint during the Catholic Church’s 2025 Jubilee Year. This news was shared during the 18th National Assembly of Italian Catholic Action in Sacrofano, Italy on April 26.

Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, known for his dedication to serving the poor and marginalized, his love for adoration, and his advocacy for religious liberty, was a remarkable figure in the Catholic faith. Described as a “Global Patron and Companion for Youth and Young Adults” by the USCCB and a dedicated website, Frassati’s life and actions continue to inspire many.

Here are 10 fascinating facts about Pier Giorgio Frassati:

1) Pier Giorgio Frassati was born on April 6, 1901, in Turin, Italy to a prominent family.

2) At a young age, he joined the Marian Sodality and the Apostleship of Prayer, obtaining permission to receive daily Communion, a rare privilege at the time.

3) Blessed Frassati was a political activist, actively involved in promoting the Catholic Church’s social teachings.

4) After his final climb, he wrote the phrase “Verso L’Alto,” meaning “to the heights,” symbolizing his philosophy of mountaineering and adventure.

5) Pope Saint John Paul II declared him “Blessed” in 1990, recognizing him as a patron for World Youth Days.

6) Pope Francis listed Frassati among the twelve exemplary saints for all young people in his apostolic exhortation, Christus Vivit.

7) In 1921, Frassati played a central role in organizing the first convention of Pax Romana, working towards universal peace.

8) Frassati loved mountain climbing and connecting with God through nature, as well as being a patron of the arts.

9) He tragically died of polio at the young age of 24, with his body found intact and incorrupt upon exhumation in 1981.

10) His body is now housed in the cathedral in Turin, where pilgrims, especially students and the young, visit to seek inspiration.

To be officially canonized as a saint, one more miracle attributed to Frassati’s intercession will need to be recognized in a decree signed by Pope Francis. The life and legacy of Pier Giorgio Frassati continue to serve as a beacon of faith and inspiration for many, reminding us to always strive for truth and defend our heritage.