From Riches to Robes – Saint Clare of Assisi seemed to have it all, two loving parents, her family’s wealth gave her many luxuries and privileges, and she was described as refined and gorgeous. However, she was not happy. Her heart ached over the fact that there were so many poor in her town and surrounding communities. As a teenager, in 1211, she heard St. Francis of Assisi preach about Jesus caring for the poor. After meeting St. Francis, she chose to be a bride of the Church, commit to unceasing prayer, and care for the poor and sick. Clare’s long hair was cut off by St. Francis. Her gorgeous dresses and jewels were replaced with a humble grey robe and wooden sandals.
Her father was upset at her actions and tried to have her forcibly removed from the monastery, but her resolve was so steadfast her family conceded and let her be. She along with her sister Agnes founded a convent at the church of San Damiano in Assisi with the help of St. Francis. After her father died, St. Clare’s own mother joined their community. They would later be known as the Poor Clares, embracing poverty, penance, and prayer in cloistered life.
