Pier Giorgio Frassati radiated a genuine, contagious joy, even  in the midst of challenges.  Friends and family noticed it right away: Pier Giorgio carried a joy that  couldn’t be bought with comfort or temporary success.  That joy came from a faith that gave meaning to everything. It was no fleeting happiness, but something lasting, coming from the light of God's love for him.

His friend and classmate, Fr. Alfredo Zardini, said: “He was always cheerful and calm, as if he carried in his heart a joy no one could take away.” And his father, Umberto Frassati, agreed: “Pier Giorgio lived with a joy that came from the depths of his soul,  a joy he found in serving  and loving others.” His joy came from within,  but it didn't just change his life: it shone as a beacon for the people around him.

How is joy connected to faith?

Pier Giorgio’s happiness  didn’t come from a life  without problems. It was  the result of knowing  Jesus was present in every moment, walking  beside him through both  joys and struggles.  That certainty gave him  the strength to live enthusiastically, commit to others, and face life with hope.

where does it start?

There are no quick fixes to get that kind of happiness.  It's not artificial or automatic: it grows from a real, ongoing relationship with God.

Recognize the places you look for happiness outside of God (non-stop plans, online likes, shopping, endless entertainment...). Next time you reach for one of these things, pause and ask if you're using it to replace something bigger. Could you bring God with you on those outings, posts, and shows?

Pope Francis said that "we can't be Christians with funeral faces." When we  let God dwell in us, it shows outwardly: in the peace of  our gaze, a sincere smile,  the ability to notice beauty even in small things and difficult moments.  We know that our lives are  in God's hands.

Food for thought:

What stole your joy today? Was it really that important? What are you grateful for in your life, and how are you nurturing it? Are you someone who spreads joy to others? Which habits or situations disturb your peace? Have you talked to God about them?

Have a grateful perspective. Take a moment each day to give thanks for something specific that happened.  This simple habit shifts your perspective and helps you  see life as a gift.

PRACTICAL TIPS for growing in joy like Pier Giorgio

Reflect on Jesus personally. Look at a crucifix or an image that reminds you of what Jesus did for you personally... not just for humanity in general, but for you,  by name, with your own story. This  can rekindle the love and joy in  your heart.

PRACTICAL TIPS for growing in joy like Pier Giorgio

Serve others selflessly. Active love, giving without expecting anything in  return, is a sure path to discovering authentic joy.

PRACTICAL TIPS for growing in joy like Pier Giorgio

Don’t forget confession. Renewing your heart,  letting go of past mistakes, and starting again with God brings peace and lightness. Pier Giorgio saw confession  as a liberating sacrament  that gave him strength to continue.

PRACTICAL TIPS for growing in joy like Pier Giorgio