St Francis’ feminine counterpart is a powerful support to many pilgrims on the Via di Francesco.
When you walk the trail, invite St Clare to walk with you, and allow her energy to illuminate your path towards a deeper, more profound connection as you traverse this sacred path.
St Clare was a 13th-century Italian saint who, inspired by the teachings of St. Francis, renounced her noble background to live a life of poverty, humility, and service alongside Francis.
St. Clare and St. Francis worked together to share Francis’ teachings of committing to a life of simplicity, humility, and service.
Their relationship serves as a testament to the power of spiritual kinship and mutual support in pursuing a higher calling.
As the founder of the Order of the Poor Clares, she was a trailblazer for women in spiritual life.
The deep forests of the Tuscan stages invite pilgrims to turn inward and listen.
Pilgrims are invited to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and appreciate moments of stillness, allowing themselves to become fully present and connected.
This mode of listening can be new and challenging, but pilgrims can ask for St Clare’s support.
She is known for healing others’ deafness and inability to speak during the time of Francis.
As you walk the Via di Francesco, ask for St Clare’s guidance in truly hearing yourself, deepening your connection with your inner voice, and understanding the subtle messages of the trail that surround you.
Similar to Francis, St Clare left a wealthy family life to follow a spiritual path that was both challenging and uncertain.
As you navigate the ups and downs of your pilgrimage, draw strength from her example of fearless commitment to follow the spiritual calling.
Ask for her guidance in finding the courage to face whatever lies ahead, trusting in the journey and embracing the challenges as opportunities for growth.
St. Clare’s life demonstrates the importance of renouncing the need to possess, control, and dominate. She lived in joyful trust, focusing on her spiritual growth rather than worldly possessions.
As you walk the Via di Francesco, practice letting go of the need to control every aspect of your journey, and instead, embrace a sense of trust in the divine plan unfolding before you.
Your pilgrimage will ultimately lead you to the enchanting town of Assisi, where you can visit the Basilica of St Clare (Basilica di Santa Chiara) and the Church of San Damiano, her original convent.
These sacred sites offer an opportunity to connect with the spirit of St Clare and St Francis, feeling their presence and guidance.
In the words of St Clare:
“May you go forward securely, joyfully, and swiftly, on the path of prudent happiness.”
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An opportunity for pilgrims, seekers, and adventurers to take an inward journey alongside the spirit of St Francis.
A Toscana, non-religious non-profit to share the discovery and preservation of Franciscan tradition, Nature, and Art.
Disclosure: We may receive affiliate compensation for some of the links on this site if you decide to purchase linked items, helping us to maintain our trails and provide services to our community of pilgrims. Read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.
By entering your email, you get the Quick Start emails, free Pilgrim Essentials Kit, and more resources, and agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.
An opportunity for pilgrims, seekers, and adventurers to take an inward journey alongside the spirit of St Francis.
A Toscana, non-religious non-profit to share the discovery and preservation of Franciscan tradition, Nature, and Art.
Disclosure: We may receive affiliate compensation for some of the links on this site if you decide to purchase linked items, helping us to maintain our trails and provide services to our community of pilgrims. Read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.