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Fellow Pilgrims in Christ,

When we think of saints, we often imagine cloisters or martyrdom in ancient Rome. Yet the Church reminds us that holiness is possible in youth, in study, in friendship, and even in laughter. Few embody this as beautifully as Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati (1901–1925), a man whose short life was ablaze with charity, joy, and an unshakable love for Christ.

Born into a wealthy family in Turin, Italy, Pier Giorgio could have embraced a life of ease. Instead, he chose the path of sacrifice and service. From his teenage years, he was known for his generosity: giving his bus money to the poor, serving in the St. Vincent de Paul Society, and quietly slipping coins or clothing to those in need. His friends recalled that he seemed almost reckless in charity, but in truth, he was radically conformed to the Gospel.

Yet Pier Giorgio was no gloomy saint. He loved mountain climbing, hiking, and the camaraderie of friends. His motto, Verso l’Alto—“To the Heights”—was both a climber’s cry and a spiritual goal. Each ascent was a symbol of his striving toward God. On mountain paths, he would lead his companions in prayer, reminding them that creation itself pointed upward, toward the Creator.

Pier Giorgio’s devotion to the Eucharist and the Blessed Virgin Mary anchored his life. Daily Mass, adoration, and the Rosary gave him strength to live a faith that was both contagious and courageous. He fought for justice, opposed fascism, and defended the dignity of the poor, even when it isolated him socially.

His death came suddenly at the age of 24, from polio—likely contracted while serving the sick. Thousands lined the streets of Turin for his funeral, not the elite of society but the poor he had quietly loved. Pope John Paul II later called him a “man of the Beatitudes,” a model for youth in every generation.

Pier Giorgio’s witness teaches us that sanctity does not demand escaping the world but embracing it with faith, joy, and sacrifice. He reminds us that the path to heaven is climbed step by step, with prayer, courage, and love for neighbor.

“Verso l’Alto!” – To the Heights!