Saint Clare of Assisi: From a Wealty Life of Nobility to Embracing a Life of Poverty

August 11 marks the feast of Saint Clare of Assisi, patron saint of people with eye disorders, embroiderers, laundry workers,  needleworkers and television.

Clare died on August 11, 1253, she was canonized as Saint Clare of Assisi just two years later, on September 26, 1255.

Saint Clare of Assisi (Chiara Offreduccio, 1194-1253) was an Italian saint and one of the first followers of Saint Francis of Assisi. Inspired by his teachings and preaching, she dedicated her life to Christ, founded a religious order for women, and became a prominent figure in the Franciscan movement. 

Clare was born into a wealthy and noble family in Assisi, Italy, in 1194, she was known for her piety and kindness from an early age.She was particularly influenced by the sermons of Saint Francis of Assisi and sought his guidance in pursuing a life devoted to God.

At 18, Clare bravely left her privileged life, defying her family's wishes for an arranged marriage, to embrace a life of poverty and religious devotion.


Following Saint Francis's guidance, Clare established a community of women who also desired to live a simple, Gospel-centered life.
Initially known as the "Poor Ladies," this order,  later renamed the Poor Clares, was founded in 1212 on Palm Sunday.

Clare wrote a rule for the Poor Clares that emphasized strict poverty and communal living without possessions, the first set of monastic guidelines known to have been written by a woman.

Clare was a woman of unwavering faith and devotion, often described as having a radiant face after spending time in prayer. She was known for her commitment to poverty, humility, and service, embodying the Franciscan ideals.
She is credited with several miracles, including saving Assisi from invasion by praying and holding up the Blessed Sacrament.
In another instance, when too ill to attend Christmas Mass, she reportedly saw and heard the entire Mass miraculously appear on the wall of her room, which is why she is the patron saint of television. 

Prayer to Saint Clare:

"Glorious St. Clare, you who embraced a life of poverty and prayer,
and became a beacon of light for the world,
we ask for your intercession.
You who trusted in the Blessed Sacrament for protection,
enkindle in us a tender love for Jesus Christ,
and help us to live Eucharistic lives.
You who saved your city from destruction,
protect our families, our communities, and our world.
Obtain for us the grace to die under God's special protection,
and to enter the eternal light and bliss you now enjoy.
Have pity on us who struggle and mourn,
and win for us the favors of God,
that after this life, we may come home to Him who lives and reigns forever and ever.
Amen."