Saint Clare of Assisi (1194-1253) is one of the most revered saints in the Catholic Church, known for her piety, humility, and the founding of the Order of Poor Ladies, commonly known as the Poor Clares. Here is a comprehensive biography of her life:
Early Life
Clare was born Chiara Offreduccio on July 16, 1194, in Assisi, Italy, into a noble and wealthy family. Her parents were Favorino Sciffi, Count of Sasso-Rosso, and Ortolana, a woman of noble descent and deep piety. Despite her family's wealth and social standing, Clare was drawn to a life of prayer and simplicity from a young age.
Meeting Saint Francis of Assisi
Clare first heard of Saint Francis of Assisi when she was a teenager. Inspired by his preaching and the radical way he lived the Gospel, she felt a strong desire to follow a similar path. Francis had renounced his wealth and devoted himself to a life of poverty, preaching, and serving the poor, which profoundly influenced Clare.
Renouncing Wealth and Founding the Order
On Palm Sunday, March 20, 1212, Clare left her family home and went to the Porziuncola, a small church associated with Saint Francis. There, she exchanged her rich clothing for a simple habit and took a vow of poverty. This act marked the beginning of her new life dedicated to Christ.
Saint Francis placed Clare temporarily in a Benedictine convent for safety. Later, she moved to the church of San Damiano, where she was soon joined by her sister Agnes and other women. This group eventually formed the Order of Poor Ladies, which later became known as the Poor Clares.
Life at San Damiano
Clare lived at San Damiano for the rest of her life, leading a community of women who embraced the principles of poverty, chastity, and obedience. They lived in strict enclosure, dedicating themselves to prayer, contemplation, and manual work. Clare became the abbess of the community, a role she held until her death.
Despite the challenges of their austere lifestyle, Clare remained steadfast in her commitment to absolute poverty. She often referred to poverty as her "Lady Poverty," showing her deep love for the virtue of living without possessions.
Miracles and Spiritual Influence
Clare was known for her deep spirituality and numerous miracles attributed to her during her lifetime. One of the most famous incidents occurred in 1240 when an army of Saracens, who were part of Emperor Frederick II's forces, threatened to attack the convent. Clare, though very ill, had herself carried to the convent’s walls, where she held up a monstrance with the Blessed Sacrament. The attackers fled, and the convent was spared.
Clare's influence extended beyond her convent. She corresponded with many people seeking spiritual advice, including popes, bishops, and other religious figures. Her letters and teachings emphasized the importance of living the Gospel fully and trusting in God's providence.
Death and Canonization
Clare suffered from illness for much of her life, especially in her later years. Despite her physical suffering, she remained spiritually strong and devoted to her community. Clare died on August 11, 1253. Her final words reportedly were, "Blessed be You, O God, for having created me."
Just two years after her death, Clare was canonized by Pope Alexander IV on August 15, 1255, in recognition of her holiness and the miracles attributed to her intercession.
Legacy
Saint Clare's legacy continues through the Order of Poor Clares, which has spread worldwide. Her life of radical poverty, deep prayer, and unwavering faith remains an inspiration to many. She is the patron saint of eye diseases, goldsmiths, and television (due to a legend that she once saw and heard Mass on the wall of her cell when too ill to attend).
Clare's feast day is celebrated on August 11, the day of her death, and she is often depicted in art holding a monstrance or pyx, reflecting her deep devotion to the Eucharist. Her life and teachings continue to inspire those who seek to live a life of simplicity, humility, and closeness to God.
Saint Clare of Assisi is known for her deep spiritual writings and prayers. Here are some notable prayers attributed to or inspired by her:
Prayer of Saint Clare of Assisi
The Blessing of Saint Clare
This prayer is a blessing that Saint Clare gave to her sisters before her death:
Prayer to Saint Clare
A prayer asking for the intercession of Saint Clare:
Prayer of Saint Clare to the Sacred Heart
Novena to Saint Clare of Assisi
This is a nine-day prayer asking for the intercession of Saint Clare.
Litany of Saint Clare
These prayers reflect Saint Clare's deep faith, devotion to Christ, and commitment to living a life of poverty, humility, and service. They are used by many to seek her intercession and to follow her example of holiness.
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