6 Tips from Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati for families at Lent

Lent offers you the time to focus on your spiritual life and grow closer to God. However, it's a lot easier to experience a rewarding Lenten period if you get inspiration from some of the Church's numerous holy men and women.

And the life of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, who is set to be canonized during the Jubilee of Youth from July 28 to August 3, 2025, is one that can offer profound inspiration.

Frassati's brief yet impactful life exemplifies virtues that can enrich our Lenten practices and family dynamics.

Despite his affluent upbringing, Pier Giorgio chose a life of modesty, often giving away his possessions to those in need -- even the shoes off his feet. He approached fasting not as a burden but as a joyful opportunity, frequently inviting friends to join him in these spiritual exercises.

Families can draw from his example by embracing sacrifices during Lent with a positive spirit, transforming challenges into shared growth experiences.

Frassati dedicated much of his time to serving the poor and sick in his community -- often bringing food, comfort and companionship to those in need.

By embodying a hands-on approach to charity and engaging in acts of service together, families can strengthen bonds and cultivate empathy, making service a cornerstone of their Lenten observance.

Known for his profound love of prayer, Pier Giorgio often spent hours in contemplation and participated in retreats and devotions. He would actually wake up early to attend Mass and then spend hours in prayer each day. During Lent, he intensified his prayer life by participating in Lenten retreats and devotions, such as the Stations of the Cross.

Families can be inspired to deepen their prayer life during Lent, finding moments for collective reflection and spiritual connection.

Despite his noble lineage and academic achievements, Pier Giorgio remained humble and approachable. He would often use humor to lighten the mood and bring joy to those around him. In fact when the young Italian was hours away from death, he didn't wish to make a fuss as his grandmother had just passed away.

Families might emulate this balance, fostering environments where faith and joy coexist harmoniously.

Pier Giorgio fearlessly lived out his faith in a secular world, standing up for the rights of workers and the dignity of every human person. He would often participate in peaceful protests and rallies, advocating for social justice and solidarity.

His courage encourages families to discuss and engage in social issues, promoting a faith that is active and outward-looking.

The one thing Pier Giorgio loved to do was to go to confession. He even stopped a priest while he was out and about to have a street-side confession.

As confession is particularly important during Lent, parents can encourage their children to go to confession over the Lenten period, and, of course, beyond.

As you can see, as Lent unfolds, reflecting on Pier Giorgio Frassati's life can inspire families to live out their faith with joy, service, prayer, humility, and courage, enriching their spiritual journey together.