Clare of Assisi received her name before her birth. Her mother, Ortolana, often went on pilgrmage and did so again, especially to pray for a safe birth for this child. Ortalano heard the Lord tell her not to be afraid, that this child would truly be a light for many. And so Clare, which means brightness or brilliance, was given by God to become a bright light throughout the Church and the world, for ages to come.
As a young girl, Clare prayed with the women of her household and often went out to give food to the poor. Though she was born into a noble family, she desired not riches, fame and a "worthy" marriage. Clare knew early on that only God could satisfy the desires of her heart.
This rich, young noblewoman knew what she must do, as soon as she heard the words of Francis of Assisi, who was aflame with love for God, calling all to be peacemakers and to cherish God's wonderful creation. On Palm Sunday, Clare left her home to become the first Franciscan woman, thus beginning an Order of prayer and penance permeated and driven by love for God.
Since 1212, the Order of St Clare (as it would become known) has spread throughout the whole world.
Very soon, Clare's sister joined her, along with friends from Assisi and neighboring towns. Eventually her mother, Ortolana, also came to live at San Damiano Monastery, where Clare resided for forty-one years in loving service to her Sisters and total abandonment to God's loving embrace.
She and her Sisters could testify that "more things are wrought by prayer than this world imagines" .... and it continues to this day.