St. Clare's Biography

In this essay, the author

• Describes how clare, a close friend of st. francis of assisi, lived in the 13th century. her reputation was like that of mother teresa of calcutta.
• Narrates how francis' view of society and its social structures was forever altered. he saw that the poor were most harmed by capitalism and urbanization.
• Describes how clare heard francis preach detachment from things and money, to live in faith, that god will provide as god cares for the birds of the air.
• Describes how clares accepted all things and people as a gift from god. she lived among her community as an equal doing daily works with everyone else.
• Narrates how clare suspected a sister was suffering from depression and gave her extra sensitivity and care. the nun was restored to health and peace of heart.
• Describes how clare and her communities became known for their care and prayers for people in need.
• Narrates how francis, the son of a rich merchant named pietro di bernardone, was very worldly in his early years.
• Explains that pope innocent iii approved his way of life, gave him permission to preach on moral topics, and had francis ordained a deacon. the followers increased and were called friars minor by francis.
• Narrates how francis founded the poor clares and the third order for lay men and women. he unsuccessfully tried to convert the sultan al-kamil during the fifth crusade.
• Describes how francis composed his famous poem, the canticle of brother sun. he was the son of peter bernardone, an italian merchant.
• Describes how francis envisioned taking over his cloth business. he longed to become a knight, and after an experience in battle and subsequent imprisonment, francis became ill and his conversion process began.
• Describes how francis rebuilt the church after his father was outraged at his behavior and brought him before the bishop of assisi. after hearing the gospel, francis recognized god's will and began a radical penitential movement.
• Explains that francis showed a great love for all of creation, and is known for his songs and poetry praising god in creation.