For more than a decade now, Saint Pier Giorgio Frassati has been a part of my life. What began as a simple curiosity about a young man who loved God, the poor, the mountains, and his friends eventually became a friendship that has profoundly shaped my faith and vocation.
Through the years, I have often turned to Pier Giorgio in prayer. In moments of joy and gratitude, but also in times of uncertainty, discouragement, and difficulty, I have experienced his closeness and intercession. Time and again, he has reminded me that holiness is possible even in the ordinary circumstances of daily life.
When the Frassati Society – Philippines was founded five years ago, we placed this small dream under the care of our Lady and in his patronage. Looking back, I am filled with gratitude. There have been many challenges, limitations, and moments when we did not know how things would move forward. Yet Saint Pier Giorgio has never failed to accompany us. Through his intercession, God has provided for our needs, sent generous collaborators, opened unexpected opportunities, and sustained our mission far beyond what we could have imagined.
As we begin today the Novena in his honor, my heart is filled with joy and thanksgiving. This year is especially meaningful as we prepare to celebrate his first feast day as Saint Pier Giorgio Frassati. For many of us who have loved him and sought his prayers for years, it is a beautiful reminder that the Church now officially proposes him to the whole world as a model of Christian holiness.
My prayer is that more people, especially young people, will come to know him, not merely as a saint to admire from afar, but as a true friend who can accompany them in their journey toward God. If Saint Pier Giorgio has taught me anything, it is that friendship with Christ changes everything.
I invite you to deepen your friendship with our Lord through Saint Pier Giorgio Frassati during these days of novena. Read about his life, reflect on his example, ask for his intercession, and allow him to lead you closer to Jesus. For in the end, that is what he always desired: not to draw people to himself, but to bring them to Christ.
Verso l’alto! Verso l’altro!
Karlos Cruz García
Moderator, Frassati Society Philippines
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