St. Clare and the Eucharist-Corpus Christi

Saint Clare and the Eucharist

You will find depictions of St. Clare holding a monstrance aloft. As we celebrate this weekend the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (known as Corpus Christi in Latin), I thought it most appropriate to relate the story:

In 1240 Saracen (Arab or Muslim) mercenaries attacked the Italian countryside and approached the town of Assisi containing the church and convent of San Damiano, where the Franciscan women lived. This army was actually sent by Roman Emperor Frederick II, who was at war with Pope Innocent IV and the Papal States! Although gravely ill, St. Clare instructed the sisters to bring her the monstrance containing the Blessed Sacrament. She prostrated herself before it and according to biographer Thomas Celano, OFM, she prays, “Behold, my Lord, is it possible you want to deliver into the hands of pagans your defenseless handmaids, whom I have taught out of love for you? I pray you, Lord, protect these your handmaids whom I cannot now save by myself.”  Suddenly she and the sisters hear a clearly audible voice: “I will always protect you!” Then Clare went to the doorway of the convent and held the Eucharist high in the direction of the advancing attackers. According to contemporary historical accounts, the invading soldiers were instantly struck with awe and stopped in their tracks. The presence of the eucharistic Christ had a profound effect on them, striking terror in their hearts and causing them to flee without harming the nuns or the town.

The women of the Second Order Franciscans or Poor Clares are very devoted to eucharistic adoration.  The occasion of this miraculous intervention was etched so vividly in their memories that the Poor Clares have celebrated it ever since as “Covenant Day” (June 22), recalling the promise God proclaimed that day, that they would always be protected. It’s easy to dismiss this story as a legend, but Clare’s biographers, like Celano who knew her personally, recorded it as fact. Pope Alexander IV later confirmed her sanctity and cited this miracle as one of many signs of her deep holiness. Eucharistic devotion was very important to Saint Francis and from him, St. Clare and her sisters learned to hold a deep devotion to Christ in the Eucharist.

So, what is the lesson in Franciscan spirituality we can take from this story? As one Franciscan website teaches, it is about putting eucharistic faith into action! Here are three ways to follow Clare’s example today:

1. Believe it like she did.

If you struggle with belief in the Real Presence, ask for the grace to believe. Start reading church teaching on the Eucharist. Ask questions. Pray in adoration, even if it feels dry.

2. Protect your home with prayer.

Clare’s convent was her spiritual home. She covered it with prayer. You can do the same in your home—daily prayer, blessings, family Rosary and Scripture reading create a spiritual shield.

3. Spend time with Christ in the Eucharist.

Find eucharistic adoration near you. Set a regular time to go. Even if it’s 15 minutes a week, be consistent. Bring your fears, your family and your needs to God. Eucharist is not a mere symbol—Christ is your King and Protector and Defense Against Evil.