Delegates representing Westminster Diocese traveled from London to attend the Canonisation ceremony of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati and Blessed Carlo Acutis in St. Peter’s Square. The event was led by His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, who canonised the two young individuals, one from the early 20th century and the other a contemporary youth of our time, both exemplifying a deep love for Jesus and a commitment to living faithfully.
The group was accompanied by Bishop Nicholas Hudson and was graciously received by His Excellency Ambassador Christopher Trott, British Ambassador to the Holy See. During the visit, the delegation had the opportunity to meet with The Right Honourable Bridget Phillipson, Secretary of State for Education, who was leading a UK Government delegation at the Canonisation.
At the Ambassadorial residence, Bishop Hudson addressed those assembled, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the new saints. He remarked, “Saints Pier Giorgio and Carlo serve as profound examples for us all. They teach us how to live with purpose, how to embrace our earthly journey, and how to deepen our relationship with Christ through the sacraments and service to those in need.” He further highlighted that Carlo’s declaration following his First Holy Communion—“to be united with Christ, this is my life’s programme”—embodying the essence of their witness.
Participants from Westminster Diocese included nine headteachers from the newly established St. Carlo Acutis Academy Trust, representatives of Westminster Diocesan Youth Ministry, and young adults accompanying Father Allan Satur OSM, Parish Priest of Our Lady of Dolours in Fulham Road—the church where St. Carlo Acutis was baptized.
Saint Pier Giorgio Frassati (1901–1925) was an Italian Catholic activist, known for his deep faith, commitment to social justice, and joyful spirit. Born into a wealthy family in Turin, he dedicated his short life to serving the poor, even contracting polio while caring for others, which led to his death at age 24. The Turin city Italian industrial city’s lined the streets at his funeral.Beatified in 1990 by Pope John Paul II as a “Man of the Beatitudes,” Frassati was canonized by Pope Leo XIV on September 7, 2025. His feast day is July 4th, the day of his death. A young man who spent his short life caring for the sick and infirm, canonised by Pope Leo XIV on 7th September 2025. Giorgio Frassati’s generosity was legendary. He often gave the clothes he was wearing to poor people he met who were in need. An open anti-fascist, a keen sportsman and mountaineer, an enthusiast of the theatre and literature, and a young man with a great devotion to the Blessed Sacrament, he stands as a great example of Christianity in action
