From the Litany of Saint Clare:
We beseech Thee, O Lord, that Thy servants who are renewing the votive commemoration of Thy holy virgin, our mother Clare, may by her intercession become partakers of the heavenly joys, and co-heirs with Thine only-begotten Son, Thou Who livest and reignest, world without end. Amen.
O God, Who wast pleased that our holy mother Saint Clare, by the splendor of her virtues, should become a guiding light to innumerable virgins, grant through her intercession and merits that those virgins may always walk in this light here on earth and may be found worthy to enjoy the perpetual serenity of Thy Face in Heaven, through Jesus Christ Our Lord. Amen.
The above prayer speaks of Saint Clare as a “guiding light.” Appropriate, since the meaning of her name is “light” or “clear.” Today is her trad feast and yesterday was the new. She was, from a very young age, deeply influenced by Saint Francis, and with his help, founded the “Poor Clares.” The above prayer also speaks of these holy virgins who are members of her order. She had a deep love for the Holy Eucharist, and famously held up Our Lord in the monstrance, as attackers besieged her convent. Of course, all were saved! Please see Catholic Online for Saint Clare’s bio, including a video.
Santa Chiara, pray for us!
Image courtesy http://www.stclare.qld.edu.au