Our brother in Christ:
Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati
Pier
Giorgio Frassati was tall, good looking, and athletic (he loved the outdoors).
But Pier's family life wasn't all that great. His mother was an artist,
who practiced her faith primarily out of obligation. His father was an
agnostic who did not believe in God. His parents did not get along well
and arguments would erupt often at the dinner table. They were on the
verge of a divorce.
What is truly remarkable, however, is that Pier was always joyful. He found peace and happiness in serving others. Following the call of Jesus when he said, "Whatever you do to the least of my brothers and sisters, you did it for me," Pier went and devoted his life to serving the poor. And he did it without any fanfare. As with many great people, Pier Giorgio's goodness was known only after his death. At the age of 24, he contacted polio from a woman he had visited in the slums. He died shortly thereafter. Soon, hundreds of the poor and desolate came to see his body. His parents had no idea that Pier Giorgio had been a friend with the least among us.
Pier Giorgio's short life blazed with intensity for doing what is right. He was not a person without problems or fear, but transformed a very difficult situation into something great and meaningful. Pier Giorgio Frassati died on July 4, 1925 and was beatified by Pope John Paul II on May 20,1990.
By Fr. Jerry Vincke
Director of Bethany House, Youth Retreat Center for the Diocese of Lansing
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