Memorial of Saint Clare of Assisi (1194–1253)
The Noblewoman’s Radical "Yes"

Born Chiara Offreduccio into a wealthy and noble family of Assisi, Clare seemed destined for a life of aristocracy and political marriage. However, after hearing St. Francis of Assisi preach during Lent in 1212, her heart was captivated by the humility and poverty of Jesus Christ. 

On Palm Sunday night of that year, at eighteen years old, Clare fled her family’s palace into the night. She met Francis and his friars at the small chapel of the Porziuncola, where Francis cut her hair, clothed her in a rough tunic, and received her vow of total consecration to God. 

She became the first woman to write a papal-approved monastic Rule, securing the "Privilege of Poverty"—to own nothing and rely solely on God's providence.

Behind the cloister of San Damiano, Clare and her sisters, the Poor Ladies, (now called Poor Clares) embraced a hidden life of unceasing prayer to anchor the friars preaching in the world. Their withdrawal was not an escape, but a way to love the world at its deepest root before the Eucharist.

From Clare's Sisters:
"Lady Clare was a true mother... Her life was continuous prayer, and her face shone with the light of God."

"Saint Clare, pray for us to give our complete 'yes' to Christ today!" -Amen

"Jesus, We Trust in You!"