Clare of Assisi
A noblewoman who traded privilege for radical poverty, founding a monastic order for women that thrives eight centuries later.
1194–1253 (age 59)·Foundress of the Franciscan Second Order and saint·Birthday: July 16
Biography
At eighteen, Clare Offreduccio heard Francis of Assisi preach and made a decision that would alter religious history. On Palm Sunday in 1212, she fled her wealthy family's home to meet Francis, who cut her hair and gave her a rough habit, symbolizing her vow to a life of gospel poverty. She established the Order of Poor Ladies, later called the Poor Clares, at the church of San Damiano, creating a spiritual haven for women seeking a contemplative life. Clare fought tirelessly for her 'Privilege of Poverty,' wanting her order to own no property and live entirely on alms, a radical idea that required papal approval. She became a spiritual powerhouse, famously said to have repelled invaders by displaying the Blessed Sacrament. Her life of severe asceticism and luminous leadership created a lasting model of female monasticism rooted in simplicity and joy.
#1 When Clare Was Born
The biggest hits of 1194
Clare's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1194Born
1199Started school
1207Became a teenager
1210Could drive
1212Could vote
1215Turned 21
1224Turned 30
1234Turned 40
1244Turned 50
1253Died at 59
Key Achievements
- Founded the Order of Poor Clares, the first Franciscan monastic order for women.
- Secured the 'Privilege of Poverty' from Pope Gregory IX, guaranteeing her order could live without endowments.
- Wrote a unique monastic rule for her order, the first set of guidelines for religious women written by a woman.
- Was canonized just two years after her death, a remarkably swift process.
Did You Know?
She is the patron saint of television, based on a story that she once saw and heard a Christmas Mass on her wall while ill.
Her sister Agnes and her mother Ortulana both joined her order.
Clare's remains are said to be incorrupt and are displayed in a crypt in Assisi.
She was the first woman to write a monastic rule that received papal approval.
“We become what we love and who we love shapes what we become.”
