The Legacy of St. Clare

For generations, Catholic sisters have been at the forefront of leadership – not only in the Church (and often not in any recognized role), but in the work of service and social justice. As a woman, it is inspiring for me everyday to work for a congregation where many sisters serve their community in high-profile roles as teachers, professors, university presidents, international aid workers, and non-profit directors. Many of these women began their leadership in a time where these positions were reserved only for men. 

All the way back in the 1200s, St. Clare of Assisi demonstrated the same kind of leadership, fortitude, and perseverance that many religious communities aspire to today. She was among the first followers of St. Francis and wanted to be a Franciscan herself. When Church officials denied her entry to Francis’ order, she accepted this with grace, but also resilience. St. Clare defied her parents and founded the Order of Poor Clare’s soon after. 

Throughout her life, St. Clare appealed to a higher Authority, the voice of God that was guiding her throughout her religious life. She defied other forms of power, including Church leadership, to seek an authentic life of service and poverty. Clare’s story is one of perseverance and integrity, even in times of great turmoil. 

The legacy of St. Clare gives me hope for women today, both sisters and laypeople, as we continue to fight for our own place in Church leadership. So often, the characteristics that are held up as ideals for men in our culture – strength, persistence, protectiveness – are criticized when they come from women. But St. Clare of Assisi shows us that women, too, can exhibit a strength that comes only from God, and can continue to make radical decisions to create a more authentic Church, rooted in the love of the Gospel. 

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Kathryn Yanik is the Director of Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation for the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, East-West Province. She has a BA in English and Theology from Georgetown University and a MA in Theology from the University of Notre Dame. She lives in Silver Spring, MD with her husband, Rob, and their daughter, Clare.