November 8, 2009 - Meeting
Reclaiming the Light: Clare of Assisi as a Model of Franciscan Life
Clare, once lauded for her brightness, remains largely shrouded in darkness. Although her name is familiar to many, details of her historical circumstances remain somewhat elusive. The first of these talks will be devoted to placing Clare in her historical context. We will focus on the world in which she lived, discuss what light she brought to her world and look for ways in which she can be imitated in our own lives. We will conclude by examining images of Clare and finding their meanings.
December 13, 2009 - Meeting
The Mirror and the Cross: Prayer and Transformation in Clare’s WritingsIn Clare’s second letter to the Bohemian princess Agnes of Prague, she exhorts Agnes to embrace the poor Christ as a poor virgin. She urges Agnes to gaze upon and contemplate her heavenly spouse. We cannot read these words without finding them moving, yet we rarely ask ourselves what meaning they hold for us. Today, we will look at Clare’s call to transformation and discern what our response should be.
Presented by - Alison More
Alison More developed an interest in religious devotion and its popular expression while studying in at Holy Name of Mary, a school run by the Felician Sisters in Ontario, Canada. Driven by a desire to discover the ways faith interacts with the world, More engaged in further study which culminated in earning her PhD from the University of Bristol in 2005. She is currently an Assistant Professor in the School of Franciscan Studies at St. Bonaventure University, where she teaches courses exploring feminine devotion in the high Middle Ages including a course focused on Clare of Assisi. She has published on portrayals of Clare in Latin sermons and on the ways in which popular religious movements interpreted the Gospel life. More is currently working on an edition of regulatory material for semi-religious women for the Brepols series Disciplicina Monastica.
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