Clare of Rimini facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Clare of Rimini |
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The Vision of the Blessed Clare of Rimini / Francesco da Rimini (Master of the Blessed Clare). ca. 1333–1340.
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| Born | c. 1260 Rimini |
| Died | 10 February c. 1326 Rimini |
| Venerated in | Roman Catholicism |
| Beatified | 22 December 1784 by Pope Pius VI |
| Major shrine | Rimini |
| Feast | 10 February (in Rimini) |
Clare of Rimini (born around 1260, died February 10, 1326) was a special Italian woman. She was known for her holy life and was later recognized as "Blessed" by the Catholic Church.
She came from a rich family and got married when she was young. After her first husband died, she had to leave her home for a while. She also saw sad political events, including her father and brother being executed. Later, she married again. One day, after going to church, she felt a strong call to live a more religious life. She then started a community for women who wanted to live a life of prayer and good deeds. Her special day, called a feast day, is celebrated on February 10.
Clare's Early Life and Change
Clare, whose real name was Chiara, was born into a wealthy family in a city called Rimini, Italy. She got married when she was quite young. Due to political problems, she and her family had to leave their home for a time. When they returned, she sadly witnessed her father and brother being executed by a rival political group. After this, she married again and for a while, she lived a life focused on fun and luxury.
One day, when Clare was about 34 years old, she went to Mass at a church run by the Franciscan Friars. During the service, she felt like she heard a mysterious voice. It told her to pray the Lord's Prayer and a Hail Mary with deep feeling and attention. Clare followed this instruction, even though she didn't know where the voice came from. After praying, she started to think deeply about her life and how she was living it.
A Life of Goodness and Helpfulness
After this experience, Clare completely changed her life. She became a wonderful example of kindness and goodness, especially showing great love and help to people who were poor or suffering. She gave up her luxurious lifestyle. Instead, she started an informal community for a group of women who wanted to follow her lead in living a simple, prayerful life.
During times of war, a group of nuns called the Poor Clares had to leave their homes. Clare worked hard to help them find a way to live and get food in Rimini.
People believed that Clare performed many miracles. Towards the end of her life, it is said she was given a special gift of deep prayer and thinking about God. Her body is now kept in the main cathedral in Rimini.
On December 22, 1784, a special approval was given by Pope Pius VI. This allowed Clare to be honored as "Blessed," and her feast day could be celebrated in Rimini on February 10.
