Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati (1901–1925) was a young Italian Catholic whose short life was marked by deep faith, vibrant joy, and a commitment to serving others. Born in Turin, Italy, into a prominent family, he grew up in a household of wealth and influence. Despite these privileges, Pier Giorgio’s heart was drawn to the poor and marginalized, embodying the Gospel values of charity and humility. A man of extraordinary zeal, Pier Giorgio combined a passion for adventure with a profound spiritual life. He was an avid mountaineer and skier, finding God in the beauty of nature. His love for the outdoors mirrored his vibrant approach to life, which he often shared with friends. He encouraged others to grow in faith, fostering a dynamic sense of community. Pier Giorgio’s devotion to the Eucharist and the Virgin Mary fueled his service. He was a member of various Catholic organizations, including the St. Vincent de Paul Society, dedicating himself to aiding the sick, the homeless, and those in need. His hidden acts of generosity revealed a soul deeply attuned to Christ’s call to love and serve. At just 24, Pier Giorgio succumbed to poliomyelitis, likely contracted from the people he served. His death revealed the breadth of his impact; thousands attended his funeral, from society’s elite to the poor he had helped. Beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1990, Pier Giorgio is celebrated as a modern model of holiness, showing that sanctity is attainable for everyone, especially young people.

Embark on a profound 9-day pilgrimage through Italy, culminating in the historic canonization of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati by Pope Francis on August 3, 2025. This spiritual journey begins in Milan, the vibrant heart of northern Italy and a city deeply connected to Frassati’s legacy as a devoted layman and tireless advocate for social justice. Pilgrims will explore the city’s majestic cathedrals and cultural treasures, reflecting on Frassati’s example of living faith in everyday life. From there, the pilgrimage weaves through Turin, Frassati’s birthplace, offering an intimate encounter with the places where his devotion and love for the poor took root. Participants will have the opportunity to venerate his tomb and pray for his intercession at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.

As the journey continues, pilgrims will travel to Assisi, the land of St. Francis, to deepen their connection to the themes of humility and service that Pier Giorgio embodied. The pilgrimage concludes in Rome, where the anticipation builds for the canonization ceremony at St. Peter’s Basilica. On August 3, 2025, Pope Francis will elevate Pier Giorgio Frassati to sainthood, recognizing his remarkable life as a modern role model for young Catholics. After the ceremony, pilgrims will tour the Vatican and other significant holy sites, reflecting on the journey’s spiritual richness. This once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage promises to inspire profound faith and a renewed commitment to living the Gospel with joy and courage.