Who was Pier Giorgio Frassati?

Pier Giorgio Frassati (1901–1925) was an Italian social activist and a member of the Third Order of St. Dominic. He is widely remembered for his deep Christian faith, his commitment to the poor, and his vibrant, active personality.

Born into an affluent and influential family in Turin—his father was the founder and director of the prominent newspaper La Stampa—Frassati chose a life of humility and service. He spent much of his time working in the slums of Turin, providing food, money, and medicine to those in need, often prioritizing the poor over his own well-being.

Despite his serious dedication to social work and his studies in mining engineering, he was an avid outdoorsman and a passionate mountaineer. He famously described his love for the mountains by saying, "The higher we go, the better we can hear the voice of Christ."

Frassati died at the age of 24 after contracting poliomyelitis, which he reportedly caught while tending to the sick. In the years following his death, his reputation for holiness grew, and he was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1990. He is often cited today as a patron for young people, students, and mountaineers, known for the motto "Verso l'alto" (Toward the heights).