Celebrating St. Clare of Assisi - and Franciscan Associates who Serve with Strength, Courage and Determination

Today is an important day in our Franciscan tradition. Today, we celebrate the feast of St. Clare of Assisi. She was born into nobility, but as a young woman, she was so moved by the preaching of St. Francis of Assisi, that she fled her home to follow him. Her father and uncles were enraged and tried to kidnap her, but she was relentless in her devotion to where she believed God was calling her. She was a woman of strength, courage and great determination. She knew great suffering and was ill for the last 27 years of her life. During that time she never left the walls of San Damiano where she was with the other sisters that followed her. She wanted to establish a new rule (or plan and way of life for a religious community) that reflected the spirit of Francis, and it was finally granted two days before she died in 1253. Very remarkable for a woman in the 13th century!

Clare of Assisi was a fierce protector of her community. There is a wonderful story of how Clare, though very ill, stood in front of San Damiano with a box containing the Blessed Sacrament. The robbers who had circled San Damiano, trying to take it over, simply walked away when they saw her.

This story reminds me of the journey of the past few years. So many in Franciscan Ministries stood watch and with courage and perseverance protected our communities as COVID and other challenges swirled around us. 

Today, in honoring the life of St. Clare, we also honor all of you for the many ways you have been fierce protectors of the residents entrusted to us.  Thank you for being like St. Clare … people of strength, courage and determination.

Blessing of St. Clare of Assisi

What you hold, may you always hold.

What you do, may you always do and never abandon.

But with swift pace, light step and unswerving feet,

so that even your steps stir up no dust.

Go forward, the spirit of our God has called you.

Written by Dawn Mayer, Chief Mission Integration & Pastoral Care Officer