St. Clare and the Franciscan Order

Vocabulary and key concepts related to St. Clare and the Franciscan Order.

Who were the first followers of Francis, and what was unique about each

Bernard and Sylvester

First Followers of Francis

Bernard and Sylvester, who were unique in their commitment to living out the Franciscan ideals.

Which friar was Clare's cousin and introduced her to Francis?

Clare's cousin who introduced her to Francis.

Clare was part of what class of people?

Noble who fled to Perugia

What sign did Clare receive to leave her life and join Francis?

Bishop Guido hands her a palm branch

What 3 things did Francis do to signify Clare's new life?

HINT: hair, clothing, and profession)

Significance of Clare's Haircut

Symbolized her worth being given up for Christ and her entry into consecrated religious life.

Consecrated Religious Life

A life dedicated to God, characterized by vows including poverty, chastity, and obedience.

Cloistered

Living in a confined monastic setting, never leaving the monastery.

San Damiano

The church rebuilt by Francis where Clare and other noblewomen settled.

Poor Clares

The order founded by Clare, dedicated to a life of poverty and prayer.

Celibacy

A commitment to not marry, dedicating oneself to God and the religious community.

Apostolic Life

Living a lifestyle that mimics the Apostles, characterized by reliance on God.

Pope Innocent III

A Pope known for his strong personality and reformist stance, critical of the clerical state.

Rule

A set way of life and guidelines for living in a religious community.

Francis's Preaching

Focused on the simplicity of life and God's presence in nature.

Wolf of Gubbio

A story in which Francis tamed a wolf that was terrorizing the town, showcasing his connection with nature.

St. Anthony of Padua

A priest who was influenced by the Franciscan martyrs and became a Franciscan friar.

Crusades

A series of religious wars between Christians and Muslims over control of holy sites.

Wager to the Sultan

Francis offered to walk through fire as a test of faith to convert the Sultan.