Saint Clare of Assisi

In March 2014, members of our community nominated more than 20 names for our parish. After two rounds of voting, the name Saint Clare of Assisi was chosen and confirmed by Bishop Robert Guglielmone. Our parish now had a name and a patroness!

Saint Clare of Assisi was a 13th-century follower of Saint Francis and cofounder of the Poor Clares. She is known for her deep love of prayer, her radical simplicity, and her devotion to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament.

One of the most well-known stories about Saint Clare tells of a time when her monastery was under threat. As enemy soldiers approached, she held up the Blessed Sacrament in prayer. The soldiers turned back and the town was spared. Because of this miracle, she is often shown holding a ciborium and standing atop a fortress wall.

Learn more about her life and legacy through the New Advent Catholic Encyclopedia »

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Art and Legacy

The Basilica of Saint Clare in Assisi, Italy was begun in 1257 and remains a place of pilgrimage today.

A famous altarpiece from around 1280 shows eight scenes from Saint Clare’s life, including her entrance into religious life, her acts of faith, and her death. A reproduction of this artwork hangs in the narthex of our church.

Her tomb lies beneath the Basilica, where her remains are preserved beneath a wood and wax effigy.