HONG KONG (SE): The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Central Council of Hong Kong organised a Mass to celebrate the canonisation of the Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Wanchai on September 10.
The Mass was celebrated by Father Stephen Ip. Father Ip reflected on Frassati’s life, highlighted his humility, love of justice, and solidarity with the poor, despite his mother’s disapproval of his charity work.
His contemplative life, marked by prayer, Eucharistic adoration, and devotion to Mary, fueled his actions and influenced his friends.
At 17, he entered the Society of St Vincent de Paul, devoting much of his free time to serving the sick, the poor, and veterans of World War I. He also engaged in other charity groups like the Christian Life Community. Pursuing mining engineering at the Royal Polytechnic University, he aimed to serve Christ among miners while actively participating in Catholic social movements. Known for his generosity, he often gave away his belongings to help others.
Frassati came from a privileged background but chose a life of faith, service, and simplicity. He died from polio on 4 July 1925, at age 24, exemplifying selflessness even in his final moments by remembering the poor. His impactful life resonated with thousands who attended his funeral.
Frassati was an avid mountaineer. Father Ip also reminded those present of his motto “Verso l’alto” (to the hill) signified drawing closer to God through nature to gain strength for serving the poor.
Father Ip said the life of Frassati showed us the importance of leading a simple life, performing good deeds, and testifying for Christ.
“His life challenges people working to help the needy, including members of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, to serve without seeking status or praise, but for love, inner joy and growth,” he said.
“It reminded us to accompany the vulnerable, and to witness Christ through simple living, and good works,” he continued.
Participants of the Mass together prayed for the sick, the burdened, and the marginalised to show the importance of peace, mercy, and Christian charity.
During a historic canonisation ceremony on September 7, Pope Leo XIV declared St. Pier Giorgio Frassati and St. Carlo Acutis as saints, emphasising their compelling legacies for young people today.
The pope encouraged the faithful, especially young people, not to squander their lives but to direct their choices in alignment with God’s will.
He praised Frassati for his deep compassion, commitment to social justice, and engagement in the service of the poor, highlighting how his faith was a powerful motivator for action.
