Pier Giorgio Frassati: Truth, Love, and Sacrifice

by David C. Bellusci

Pier Giorgio Frassati is situated in the social and political upheaval of early-twentieth-century Italy. The Roman Catholic Church read the warning signs of atheistic Marxism; Mussolini filled Italy’s political vacuum with fascists; and Rome was still Italy’s disputed capital. The biography draws from a synopsis of selected letters and witness accounts, revealing Pier Giorgio’s increasing engagement with the world around him, shaped by his spiritual life. Pier Giorgio belonged to an upper-middle-class family and his parents transmitted fundamental values of truth, courage, and justice. Although he was deeply loved by his parents, they did not share his religious zeal. Pier Giorgio was concerned about helping the poor in the slums of Turin, the needy German students in Berlin, but especially in contributing to world peace. His spiritual maturity was expressed by making his friendship with a young lady offered up, bidding farewell to his best friend leaving for the Air Force, watching his sister depart once married, and his career in mining engineering abandoned. Pier Giorgio stood alone. He remained at home for the good of his parents to ensure peace and unity. He died at twenty-four years old.

254 pages, Paperback

Published April 27, 2020

Reviews

[Erika Robuck · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an academic/archival look at the life of Pier Giorgio Frassati, and is meant for those who have a specific interest in and background knowledge of Frassati. The context for each of the letters and the details of his life in Turin, Pollone, and beyond are provided, along with short commentary.

[Lorraine Shelstad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati's niece, Wanda Gawronska, gave Father David Bellusci letters written by Pier Giorgio which had not previously been translated into English. Using these letters, Father Bellusci looks into the life of Pier Giorgio with detail from the time he was a young child through his university life, political involvement and spiritual development. We see Pier Giorgio as an example to readers of how they (we) can become Saints. His friendships, based on a shared love of God and desire to do His will, come alive showing Pier Giorgio's enjoyment of life, his humour and his sensitivity towards others. It is a book that one can read again to remind us of how we can grow in our relationship with Jesus.