Saint Claire of Assisi

Patron Saint of television, eye disease, goldsmiths, and the Poor Clares.

Feast Day: August 11th

Religious

Assisi, Italy

Feast Day: August 11th

Religious

Assisi, Italy

About

Saint Clare of Assisi was a noble-born Italian woman who gave up a life of wealth to follow a radical life of poverty and prayer. Inspired by the preaching of Saint Francis of Assisi, she left her family home at age 18 to dedicate herself fully to Christ. Clare founded the Order of Poor Ladies, later known as the Poor Clares, and lived in the monastery of San Damiano where she led her sisters in a life of silence, simplicity, and Eucharistic devotion.

Legacy

Saint Clare is remembered for her fearless faith, especially when she held up the Blessed Sacrament to repel invaders from her convent. She was the first woman to write a monastic rule approved by the pope. Her example of radical poverty and deep contemplative prayer continues to influence religious life and inspire those who seek to live fully for God. Her close friendship with Saint Francis reflects the beauty of holy companionship and shared mission.

“We become what we love and who we love shapes what we become.” — Saint Clare of Assisi