Clare was abbess of an Augustinian convent in Montefalco, Italy, who meditated deeply on the Passion of Christ. She guided many with wise spiritual counsel and was known for her love of the Cross.
Life
Saint Clare of Montefalco was born around 1268 in Montefalco, in the Umbria region of Italy. While still a girl she joined a small community of women hermits led by her older sister Joan and began a life of prayer and penance.
The community later adopted the Rule of Saint Augustine and became the monastery of the Holy Cross, and after her sister's death Clare led it as abbess. She was known for deep meditation on the Passion of Christ and for wise spiritual counsel, and she is said to have told her sisters that she carried the cross of Jesus in her heart. She died on August 17, 1308, and was canonized by Pope Leo XIII in 1881.
Spirituality
Saint Clare's spirituality is a love that engraves the Passion of Christ on the heart. She saw the cross not only as a sign of suffering but as proof of God's love, and she shared that love humbly and wisely with her sisters and with those who came to her.
Reflection
Saint Clare carried the cross of Jesus in her heart. Why not pause before a crucifix today and thank the Lord who suffered for you?