Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, a prominent figure in Catholic history, could soon be declared a saint by the Catholic Church during the 2025 Jubilee Year, according to Cardinal Marcello Semeraro. Frassati was known for his strong dedication to serving the poor and marginalized, his love for adoration, and his advocacy for religious liberty. His commitment to defending causes aligned with his Catholic faith made him a respected figure among the faithful. Frassati holds the title of „Global Patron and Companion for Youth and Young Adults,“ as recognized by the USCCB and a dedicated website.
Frassati was born on April 6, 1901, in Turin, Italy, to a notable family. His early involvement in the Marian Sodality and the Apostleship of Prayer, and his permission to receive daily Communion, which was rare at the time, showcased his deep faith from a young age. Frassati also engaged in political activism, joining Catholic organizations and promoting the social teachings of the Catholic Church.
One of the defining moments in Frassati’s life was his final climb, where he inscribed the phrase „Verso L’Alto“ on a photograph, meaning „to the heights.“ This motto symbolized his approach to mountaineering and adventure, reflecting his philosophy of always aiming for greater heights. Frassati’s life and values were recognized by Pope Saint John Paul II, who declared him „Blessed“ in 1990 and designated him a patron for World Youth Days.
Despite his untimely death at the age of 24 due to polio in 1925, Frassati’s legacy continues to inspire many. His body, found intact and incorrupt upon exhumation in 1981, was transferred to the cathedral in Turin, where pilgrims, especially students and the young, visit his tomb seeking courage to follow his example. Pope Francis also acknowledged Frassati’s exemplary life by including him among the twelve saints in his apostolic exhortation „Christus Vivit,“ emphasizing their devotion to Christ.
For the formal canonization of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati as a saint in the Catholic Church, another miracle attributed to his intercession must be recognized through a decree signed by Pope Francis. Frassati’s enduring legacy serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the faithful, particularly the youth and young adults, encouraging them to live a life of faith, truth, and courage, as exemplified by Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati.