Saint Clare expels the Saracens
The story of St. Clare expelling the Saracens refers to a miraculous event in 1240 when St. Clare, founder of the Poor Clares, is said to have frightened away attacking Saracen mercenaries by holding aloft the Blessed Sacrament. Weak and ill, she was roused by her sisters as the soldiers were attempting to breach their convent at San Damiano. She prayed for protection and, holding the Eucharist, faced the attackers, who then fled in terror. This event is often depicted in art, with St. Clare holding a monstrance.
The Attack. In 1240, Saracen mercenaries, employed by Emperor Frederick II, attacked the monastery of San Damiano, where St. Clare and her sisters lived.
St. Clare's Response Roused from her sickbed, St. Clare, despite her weakness, took the Blessed Sacrament (often depicted as a monstrance or a pyx, a small box for the host).
The Miracle. She held the Eucharist aloft, praying for protection for her sisters and the city of Assisi. The Saracens, upon seeing the consecrated Host, were reportedly struck with fear and retreated.
Significance. This event is considered a Eucharistic miracle, highlighting the power of the Eucharist and St. Clare's faith. It is also a key moment in her iconography, often portrayed in art.
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