Pope Francis has acknowledged a second miracle attributed to Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, fulfilling the requirement of two miracles for canonization. The Blessed, who passed away at the age of just 24, was especially devoted to helping the poor. The canonization ceremony is scheduled to take place in Rome during the Jubilee of Youth on August 3, 2025.
The Miracle
According to CNA, Pope Francis recognized the miraculous healing of a seminarian from the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, who was ordained as a priest in June 2023.
Monsignor Robert Sarno, who investigated the case, explained that the seminarian had suffered a severe injury to his Achilles tendon during a basketball game with fellow seminarians. An MRI revealed significant damage to the tendon, prompting his doctor to recommend consulting an orthopedic surgeon.
“Deeply upset about the situation, he began a novena to Pier Giorgio Frassati on November 1,” Sarno shared.
Halfway through the novena, “he was in the chapel praying and crying when he felt a tremendous warmth in his ankle.”
A week later, when he visited the orthopedic surgeon, the doctor, after reviewing the MRI results and conducting a physical examination, remarked: “You must have someone in heaven who likes you.”
The seminarian was able to resume playing the sports he loved without any difficulties. The healing was confirmed through a diocesan inquiry and further reviewed by the medical board, theologians, cardinals, and bishops of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints.
Sarno noted the fitting nature of the miracle: “a young man injured while playing basketball received healing through the intercession of Pier Giorgio Frassati, who was known for his love of sports and outdoor activities.”
Background
Pier Giorgio Frassati was born on April 6, 1901, into a wealthy family who owned the Italian newspaper La Stampa, which is still in circulation. He dedicated himself to serving the poor and the sick while being an avid athlete and mountaineer. Known for his sociable personality and great sense of humor, he passed away on July 4, 1925, at the age of 24 due to polio.
Unexpectedly, a large crowd of impoverished people whom he had helped throughout his life attended his funeral. Despite his short life, Frassati left a profound impact on his hometown of Turin. He continues to inspire young Catholics, who see him as a role model for his enthusiastic witness and vibrant living of the faith.
