The International Movement of Catholic Students (IMCS Pax Romana) described the canonization of Pier Giorgio Frassati and Carlo Acutis as both a moment of joy for the universal Church and a “family celebration.”
Frassati, one of the founding members of Pax Romana, was remembered as “a young student, facing the struggles of study and friendship, yet choosing to live his faith in joy and solidarity with the poor.”
His motto “Verso l’alto” (“Toward the heights”) continues “to call us, as students across the world, to rise with courage, faith, and hope,” the statement said.
“St. Pier Giorgio’s life challenges us in a particular way. He walked with students and workers, and especially with the poor and marginalized, placing the excluded at the center of his life,” IMCS Pax Romana affirmed.
“His example reminds us that holiness means solidarity, and solidarity means justice,” the statement added, stressing the urgency for Catholic students “who are called to defend the dignity of the most vulnerable in our universities, communities, and societies.”
Alongside him, the group highlighted the witness of Acutis, the first millennial saint. “With his passion for the Eucharist and his creativity in the digital world, he shows us how faith can be shared with new energy and new tools,” the statement said.
“Together, Pier Giorgio and Carlo are concrete examples for students and young people of what it means to follow Christ in ordinary life,” it added.
William Nokrek, international president of IMCS Pax Romana, said the canonization of St. Pier Giorgio Frassati “is a family celebration” for Pax Romana.
“He walked with students, workers, and especially with the poor and marginalized. His choice to put the least and the excluded at the center of his life challenges us today,” he said.
Nokrek emphasized that young Catholic students are called to follow Frassati’s path by ensuring their studies, friendships, and daily commitments uphold the dignity of the most vulnerable. He stressed that Frassati’s life shows holiness is inseparable from solidarity and justice.
The movement said it was renewing its commitment to form Catholic students as agents of dialogue, justice, and peace.
It also asked for the guidance of Frassati and Acutis to inspire young people verso l’alto—toward the heights of faith, hope, and love.
