Our Patron

Pier Giorgio Frassati was born in Turin, Italy on 6 April 1901. From his early years, he demonstrated a special love for God through prayer and service of the poor. An average student but outstanding athlete, he made many friends in high school and university. He was an active member of several Catholic organizations which ministered to the poor, promoted Eucharistic adoration and Marian devotion, and defended chastity. His strong political views led him to join movements which challenged society in its struggle about Christian values.

Although he was the son of a rich and politically influential family, Pier Giorgio mingled with all classes of people, spent his money on the needy, and regularly visited the sick. During one of these visits he contracted polio and died within a few days, on 4 July 1925, at the age of twenty-four.

He was beatified by Pope John Paul II on 20 May 1990 and gave him the title, "Man of the Eight Beatitudes." He is currently a candidate for canonization by the Catholic Church.


"By his example he proclaims that a life lived in Christ's Spirit, the Spirit of the Beatitudes, is "blessed", and that only the person who becomes a "man or woman of the Beatitudes" can succeed in communicating love and peace to others. He repeats that it is really worth giving up everything to serve the Lord. He testifies that holiness is possible for everyone, and that only the revolution of charity can enkindle the hope of a better future in the hearts of people."

Beatification Ceremony "The Most Handsome Saint in Heaven" audio cassette offered by www.marianland.com  "The Man of the Eight Beatitudes"  By Ben Hatke

Prayer Father, you gave to the young Pier Giorgio Frassati the joy of meeting Christ and of living his faith in service of the poor and the sick. Through his intercession may we, too, walk the path of the beatitudes and follow the example of his generosity, spreading the spirit of the Gospel in society. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.     - Giovanni Card. Saldarini, Archbishop of Turin