St. Clare of Assisi, deeply influenced by St. Francis, refused the marriage her wealthy parents intended for her and founded the order of Poor Clares, in the “privilege of perfect poverty.” Many women joined her, including her mother and sister. She died on August 11, 1253.
Founded in Poland in 1855, the Felician Sisters are a congregation of women religious inspired by the spiritual ideals of their foundress, Blessed Mary Angela Truszkowska, and Saints Francis of Assisi, Clare of Assisi and Felix of Cantalice. Arriving in North America in 1874 following Blessed Mary Angela’s directive “to serve where needed,” they helped to weave the social service system. Today, the Felician Sisters founded, sponsor or support through the presence of our sisters, more than 40 ministries – all continuing to evolve to meet the needs of the people they serve.
