August 17

Italian. 1275-1308

Claimed by both the Franciscans and Augustinians. Pious from childhood, and devoted to Christ's Passion and the Cross. Franciscan tertiary. Joined with her blood sisters and some friends to form a new Franciscan house, Holy Cross Convent in Montefalco, Italy, with Clare's sister Joan as its first abbess. Reluctant abbess of the community at Santa Croce in 1255 following the death of her sister; the house eventually adapted the Rule of Saint Augustine. Upon her death, a cross was found emblazoned on the flesh above her heart.

Prayer and sacrifice distinguished her life. She was especially devoted to the passion of Christ. The cross symbolizes this. Her own heart is shown, recalling her words to her sisters; "If you seek the cross of Christ, take my heart; there you will find the suffering Lord."