Food for Thought

Jul 10, 2015

Perhaps one of the most celebrated cases showing the strength of a Spiritual guide can be found in the relationship between St. Francis of Assisi and St. Clare.

As a young girl, Clare, who came from nobility, was moved by Francis' preaching, particularly his devotion to the poor. She was so moved that she decided to give up her life of luxury and comfort, fled her home and went to live a life of poverty like Francis. Like him, she took up a brown habit and eventually became founder of her own order, the Poor Clares.

In his general audience of Sept. 15, 2010, Pope Benedict XVI mentioned their Spiritual bond. "Francis of Assisi was not only a teacher to Clare whose teachings she was to follow but also a brotherly friend," he said. "The friendship between these two saints is a very beautiful and important aspect."

Their "Spiritual friendship," the Pope said, led "them to share devotions and Spiritual interests, so as to have but one mind between them."