Patron Saints Series: St. Clare for Sisters {guest post by Rebecca}

St. Clare of Assisi was born into a wealthy noble family but after being inspired by St. Francis’ preaching, desired to live her life for Christ. Despite her father’s wishes, she ran from home and sought St. Francis’ help. He cut her hair, gave her a habit, and with Francis’ help, Clare started her amazing life of poverty and service to God.

St. Clare founded the order of the Poor Clares which still stands strong today. Many women were attracted to their radical way of life and flocked to join the order. Among those who joined the order was Clare’s younger sister, Agnes. Their family was upset that they lost two daughters and also tried to stop Agnes from living this vocation. They tried to have her taken away but were unsuccessful after several miraculous events occurred. Agnes was eventually sent to a group of Poor Clares near Florence and became the Abbess.

In 1253, Clare passed away and thankfully Agnes was able to be with her sister at the end of her life. Then three months later, Agnes passed away as well. Clare and Agnes are both buried in St. Clare’s Basilica in Assisi.

St. Clare and St. Agnes are beautiful examples of sisterhood. Not only were they sisters by blood, but also devout sisters in Christ. Clare set an example to her sister as well as her entire family. Though many in her family did not agree with her vocation, you can imagine how her decision still impacted them. It obviously effected Agnes since she was brave enough to follow her sister’s path that had already been proven to be difficult and unpopular.

As a sister, you can be inspired by St. Clare’s story and strive to be a spiritual leader in your own family. Make a point to pray with your siblings and build a faith filled relationship with them. Whether you are older or younger and even if you have brothers rather than sisters, your own faith can have more of an impact and impression than you realize. May your actions and words always bring them closer to Christ. Pray for your siblings’ vocations. Encourage and support them wherever they are in their faith journey. Lead them to the Sacraments and more specifically, lead them to God. Even if your parents or other family members do not support your faith, be brave anyway. Pray for continued conversion in your family. Dare to be holy and become a saintly sister!

St. Clare of Assisi, pray for us!

Becky blogs at Vita Dulcis where she writes about food, faith, and family. She is a wife, mom, foodie, and a native Texan. She is a Catholic convert who loves iced mochas, youth ministry, road trips, and decorating cookies.