Early Life and Calling
Saint Clare of Assisi was born Chiara Offreduccio on July 16, 1194, into a noble family in Assisi, Italy. From a young age, Clare exhibited deep piety and a desire for a life dedicated to God, despite the expectations of her noble status. Her devout mother, Ortolana, likely influenced Clare’s spiritual inclinations, encouraging her to embrace a life of prayer and charity.
At the age of 18, Clare heard the preaching of Saint Francis of Assisi, whose words deeply moved her. Inspired by his example of radical poverty and devotion to Christ, Clare resolved to follow a similar path. On Palm Sunday in 1212, she secretly left her family’s home and met with Francis at the Portiuncula, where she exchanged her luxurious clothes for a simple habit and cut her hair as a sign of renunciation of worldly life. Francis placed her in the care of the Benedictine nuns at the Monastery of San Paolo in Bastia until her family accepted her decision.
Founding of the Poor Clares
Soon after, Clare moved to the Church of San Damiano, which became the first convent of the Order of Poor Ladies, later known as the Poor Clares. Saint Clare became the abbess of this community, where she lived for the remainder of her life. The rule of life for the Poor Clares, written by Saint Clare herself, emphasized the virtues of poverty, humility, and penance, mirroring the Franciscan ideals of simplicity and total trust in Divine Providence.
The Rule of Clare, which Pope Innocent IV approved just two days before her death, was the first monastic rule written by a woman, reflecting her extraordinary spiritual authority and understanding of the religious life.
Miracles and Legacy
Saint Clare was known for her profound trust in God, which was often demonstrated through miracles. One of the most famous miracles occurred when the convent of San Damiano was threatened by Saracen mercenaries. Clare, though very ill, had the Blessed Sacrament brought to the entrance of the convent and prayed for protection. The attackers fled, and the convent was spared.
Clare was also known for her deep devotion to the Eucharist, often spending long hours in adoration. This devotion sustained her through severe illnesses and physical suffering, which she bore with remarkable patience and joy.
Death and Canonization
Saint Clare died on August 11, 1253, at the age of 59. Her holiness was recognized widely even during her lifetime, and she was canonized just two years later by Pope Alexander IV on August 15, 1255.
Her feast day is celebrated on August 11, and she is the patron saint of television, due to a miraculous vision of the Mass that she experienced when she was too ill to attend in person. This unique patronage reflects the Church’s recognition of her spiritual insight and her profound connection with the liturgical life of the Church.
Conclusion
Saint Clare of Assisi stands as a beacon of purity, poverty, and unwavering faith. Her life was a testament to the transformative power of radical devotion to Christ, and her legacy continues to inspire countless women religious and laypeople to live lives of simplicity, humility, and deep love for God. Her close spiritual friendship with Saint Francis of Assisi and her foundational role in the Franciscan movement underscore her significance in the history of the Church.