St. Clare of Assisi St. Clare of Assisi, born Chiara Favarone, was best friend and spiritual counterpart to the beloved and legendary St. Francis. At times, in the radiance of his renown, Clare can appear to be a shadow.
Fewer people know of their powerful love and relationship.
Together they founded the First and Second Franciscan Orders in the 13th century. Their lives were intertwined in life and in death, and their friendship remains one of the most blessed and influential in Christian history. In preparing for Holy Week, I would like to share and reflect on the words of remarkable women who have gone before us. This union can cause the dead to rise, and the glorious vision of it delights all the hosts of Heaven for in it they behold reflected the splendor of the glory of God, the immaculate radiance of eternal light. O my beloved daughter, divine grace will permit you to find your joy in contemplating this mirror.