Why do Poor Clares live on alms?

We believe we are called by God to share what we have with others.

As Poor Clares we live a unique expression of the Christian contemplative life. Like all Christians, we try to live out the gospel of Jesus Christ. However, a contemplative chooses to spend one's day in prayer and constant search for God's presence. This can only be a response to a "call" or "vocation" from God.

In 1210 St. Clare heard St. Francis preach detachment from things and money to live in faith, trusting that God will provide as God cares for the birds of the air (Matt 6). Two years later Clare left her family and joined Francis. Inspired by Francis' faith, Clare lived and believed in Divine Providence. She depended on God to supply what she and her community needed. Clare accepted all things and people as gift from God.

We still depend on alms for our major support; however we recognize all things change. We also do work that help support us and are of spiritual benefit to others. We create Christmas and sympathy cards as well as Fragrant Anointing Oil which we sell. However, proceeds from these works alone do not cover all our expenses. Although we live a simple life, we need your support to help us continue our ministry of prayer.

We ask you to join us. Please become part of our ministry of prayer for the well-being of people across the world, for peace between cultures, religions, and for peace within and between families - healing for those we hold dear and those whose names we do not know.