11/08/2026
August 11 | Saint of the Day
St. Clare of Assisi, born Chiara Offreduccio on July 16, 1194, was the noble daughter of Count Favorino Sciffi and his devout wife Ortolana. At the age of 18, inspired by the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi, Clare chose to leave her wealthy life to pursue a life of devotion.
On Palm Sunday in 1212, she exchanged her fine attire for a simple robe and veil, becoming a member of the Benedictine convent of San Paolo. Despite her father's efforts to bring her back, Clare committed herself to a spiritual marriage with Jesus Christ. St. Francis later relocated Clare aind her sister Agnes to Sant' Angelo in Panzo to provide them with greater solitude.
This led to the establishment of the 'Poor Ladies of San Damiano,' an order dedicated to living in austerity and poverty. In 1216, Clare became the abbess of San Damiano, leading the community with a firm commitment to their humble way of life.
As abbess, Clare was steadfast in defending her community's principles against pressures from the ecclesiastical authorities. Her unwavering dedication to both St. Francis and the order's strict vows of poverty earned her widespread respect. One of her most notable acts of faith was confronting soldiers sent by Frederick II, holding the Blessed Sacrament and trusting in divine protection for her convent.
In her later years, Clare faced illness, but her faith remained strong until her death on August 11, 1253. Shortly before her passing, Pope Innocent IV approved her leadership for the Order of Poor Ladies, which was later renamed the Order of Saint Clare. She was canonized in 1255, and her remains are kept at the Basilica of Saint Clare in Assisi.
In 1958, Pope Pius XII declared her the patroness of television. Additionally, St. Clare is regarded as the protector of those suffering from eye diseases, goldsmiths, and laundry workers. Her enduring legacy is symbolized by the monstrance or pyx, representing her courageous defense of her sisters. St. Clare's feast day is celebrated annually on August 11, continuing to inspire the faithful around the world.
