We live in a world that worships complexity and grandiosity, but the genius of God is found in the simplicity of ordinary things.

Many of us will agree with this idea, but very few of us will live it. Saint Clare of Assisi was one of the rare heroes of history who actually lived the virtue of simplicity.

Clare was born Chiara Offreduccio on July 16, 1194, in Assisi, Italy. The heiress of a wealthy family, Clare was drawn early in life to a path less trodden—one marked not by material abundance, but by profound spiritual depth. She first encountered Saint Francis around 1210, when she heard him preaching during a Lenten service in Assisi. He spoke about the beauty of poverty as a means to spiritual freedom, which ignited her lifelong commitment to living simply.

At the age of 18, Clare made a radical decision to renounce her noble background. On Palm Sunday in 1212, she left her family’s estate, met with Francis, and committed to a life dedicated to Christ. She removed her fine clothes, cut her hair, and embraced a plain robe as a sign of her new life. 

Francis established a small community for her at San Damiano. Here, Clare founded the Poor Clares. Her rule for the order was revolutionary: absolute poverty. The Poor Clares were to own no property, neither individually nor communally. Under Clare’s guidance, the sisters wore no shoes, ate no meat, and used no possessions that could distance them from the poor they vowed to emulate.

Saint Clare of Assisi lived this simple life until she passed onto the next life on August 11, 1253. She was canonized just two years later.

For centuries, Saint Clare’s example has inspired countless men and women to seek the path of simplicity and renew their relationship with God. How do you need to simplify your life? 

The virtue of simplicity fosters a spirit of contentment. Never confuse needs with wants. Concern yourself with the essential few rather than the trivial many. Liberate yourself from the things of this world so that your heart is free to rejoice in the pursuit of holiness.



Feast Day: August 11

Feast Day Shared By: Saint Tiburtius and Saint Susan

Patron Saint of: Eye Disease, Goldsmiths, Laundry, Television, Bicycle Messengers, Good Weather, Needleworkers, Remote Viewing, and Extrasensory Perception

Also Known As: Founder of the Poor Clares

Symbols: The Monstrance

Canonized: September 26, 1255

Canonized By: Pope Alexander IV