> [[09-figures|↑ Back to TOC]] # Saint Clare of Assisi ## Biography Cofoundress of the Order of Poor Ladies (Poor Clares) and first Abbess of San Damiano; born at Assisi on 16 July, 1194; died there 11 August, 1253. Her father was Count Favorino Scifi of Sasso-Rosso; her mother, Bl. Ortolana, was noted for her piety. At the age of eighteen, moved by the preaching of Saint Francis, Clare secretly left her father's house on Palm Sunday night, 1212, and consecrated herself to Christ. Saint Francis clothed her in a rough habit and cut off her hair. After temporary stays with the Benedictines, she was established at San Damiano, founding the first community of Poor Ladies. She steadfastly defended the privilege of absolute poverty until the end of her life. *Source: Catholic Encyclopedia, "St. Clare of Assisi"* ## Notes - Founded the Order of Poor Ladies (Poor Clares). - Writings: letters and a rule for her community. - Promoted strict poverty and Franciscan spirituality among women.