At Immaculata-La Salle High School, the Climbing Club is about a “vertical” journey toward the divine. Rooted in the school’s Catholic identity, the club finds its rhythm and purpose through the intercession of two remarkable figures: Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati and Blessed Carlo Acutis.
The Man of the Beatitudes
Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati is the natural patron for any mountaineer. An avid climber in the Italian Alps, Frassati famously coined the phrase “Verso l’Alto” (Toward the Heights). For the students at ILS, Frassati represents the “Man of the Eight Beatitudes”—someone who balanced intense athletic adventure with a deep, quiet devotion to the poor. His life serves as a reminder that the physical struggle of a steep ascent mirrors the spiritual discipline required to live a virtuous life.
“He really showed discipline in everything that he did, especially in doing good for his community,” said senior Liana Zenni.
The Digital Disciple on the Mountain
While Frassati is a traditional icon for climbers, the club also draws modern inspiration from Blessed Carlo Acutis. Often celebrated as the “Cyber-apostle” for his skills in computer programming, many are surprised to learn that Carlo was also a great lover of the outdoors. He viewed nature as a “ladder” to reach God, and he frequently spent time hiking and climbing in the mountains of Assisi.
Carlo believed that “the trail to heaven” was found in the Eucharist, but he used his love for the mountains to recharge his spirit. The ILS Climbing Club operates in the spirit of Carlo’s own joy; for him, climbing was not about ego, but about witnessing the majesty of creation. By following his example, students learn that being a “tech-savvy” teenager doesn’t mean being disconnected from the earth. Carlo proves that one can be both a master of the modern world and a pilgrim in the wild. His legacy reminds the club members that every reach for a new handhold is a chance to move closer to the Creator. In the spirit of Carlo Acutis, the club climbs not just to reach a summit, but to elevate their souls.
