Detail depicting Saint Claire from a fresco (c.1320) by Simone Martini in the lower basilica of San Francesco, Assisi.

Introduction

St. Clare of Assisi, born Chiara Offreduccio, was a remarkable Italian saint who founded the Order of Poor Ladies, later known as the Poor Clares. She was born in Assisi, Italy, on July 16, 1194, and lived during a pivotal time in the Catholic Church’s history, marked by a movement for reform and a return to apostolic simplicity.

Early Life

Clare was born into a noble family and was the eldest daughter of Favorino Scifi and Ortolana. Raised in a comfortable environment, she was deeply influenced by her mother’s piety and devotion to prayer. Even as a young girl, Clare showed an inclination towards religious life, often spending time in prayer and fasting.

Conversion and Commitment to a Religious Life

In 1212, inspired by the revolutionary teachings of another native of Assisi, St. Francis, Clare decided to renounce her life of wealth for one of poverty and religious devotion. On Palm Sunday, she left her father’s house to join Francis and his followers at the Porziuncola, a small church outside Assisi. Here, she exchanged her rich garments for a simple robe and veil and took vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.

Founding of the Poor Clares

Shortly after her conversion, Clare moved to the convent of San Damiano, where she established a religious community of women dedicated to living in poverty and cloistered in prayer. With Francis’s guidance, Clare wrote a rule of life for the order, emphasizing radical poverty and the shared community life. This order was recognized by Pope Innocent IV in 1253, shortly before her death.

Challenges and Strength

The early years of the Poor Clares were fraught with challenges, including opposition from the Church hierarchy regarding their strict adherence to poverty. Clare remained steadfast, defending her right to live in poverty and thus maintaining the spirit of Franciscan life within her community. Her leadership was marked by humility and deep spiritual insight.

Miracles and Legacy

St. Clare’s life was marked by numerous miracles, including the famous incident where she repelled the Saracen invaders by displaying the Blessed Sacrament at the convent walls. Her unwavering faith served as an inspiration to many within and outside the Church, and her feast day is celebrated on August 11.

Conclusion

St. Clare of Assisi remains a revered figure in Catholic history for her devotion to poverty, dedication to prayer, and pioneering role in establishing a religious order for women. Her life and legacy continue to inspire countless individuals to pursue lives of spiritual richness and communal living. Clare was canonized by Pope Alexander IV on September 26, 1255, and she is venerated as the patron saint of eye diseases, television, and goldsmiths.