Charles Esther
On August 11, the Catholic Church honors St. Clare of Assisi, a noblewoman inspired by St. Francis to embrace a life of poverty and found the Poor Clares, a cloistered contemplative order of religious sisters.
Rapid Spread of the Poor Clares Across Europe
The order quickly grew throughout Italy, attracting young noblewomen who sold their possessions to join.
In 1218, Clare’s sister Agnes introduced the order to Spain, and soon monasteries appeared in Belgium, France, and other European countries.
Branches of the Poor Clares and Their Rule
The Poor Clares follow the Rule of St. Clare, approved by Pope Innocent IV in 1253, taking vows of poverty, obedience, and chastity.
Branches include the Colettine Poor Clares, Capuchin Poor Clares, and the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration.
Life at Our Lady of Solitude Monastery in Tonopah, Arizona
Mother Marie André Campbell, abbess since 2016, has served as a Poor Clare of Perpetual Adoration for 31 years at this monastery.
A Personal Journey to Religious Life
Raised in a military family in California, Mother Marie André initially pursued careers in government agencies but felt called to religious life after visiting a monastery linked to Mother Angelica.
She entered the Poor Clares in 1994, drawn by the contemplative lifestyle and her Franciscan heritage.
Origins and Growth of the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration
Founded in France in 1854 by Mother Marie Claire Bouillevaux with a special devotion to Eucharistic adoration, the order expanded to the United States in 1921.
Mother Angelica’s 1981 founding of EWTN and related Franciscan communities helped foster growth, leading to the establishment of the Our Lady of Solitude Monastery in Arizona in 2005.
Adoration as Central to the Poor Clares’ Life
Mother Marie André emphasized that besides the Mass, Eucharistic adoration is the most vital part of their faith, centering their life on the presence of Christ.
Reflection on Faith in a Busy World
The monastery’s location near a busy highway prompts Mother Marie André to wonder if passersby realize who is present in their midst during daily life.
She encourages everyone to dedicate time to prayer and listen for God’s guidance.
Daily Life and Spiritual Discipline at the Monastery
The sisters follow a structured day of prayer, Mass, work, and recreation, which Mother Marie André describes as perfectly balanced and fulfilling her calling.
Advice for Those Discerning Religious Life
Mother Marie André urges seekers to step forward with courage and faith, surrendering to God’s will as St. Clare did, trusting in divine providence despite uncertainty.
David Awoyode