O blessed poverty

by Clare of Assisi

English version by Regis J. Armstrong, OFM CAP & Ignatius C. Brady, OFM
Original Language Italian

O blessed poverty,
     who bestows eternal riches on those who love and embrace her!
O holy poverty,
     to those who possess and desire you
     God promises the kingdom of heaven
     and offers, indeed, eternal glory and blessed life!
O God-centered poverty,
     whom the Lord Jesus Christ
     Who ruled and now rules heaven and earth,
     Who spoke and things were made,
     condescended to embrace before all else!

-- from Francis and Clare: The Complete Works: The Classics of Western Spirituality, Translated by Regis J. Armstrong, OFM CAP / Translated by Ignatius C. Brady, OFM

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Recommended Books: Clare of Assisi

Francis and Clare: The Complete Works: The Classics of Western Spirituality All Saints: Daily Reflections on Saints, Prophets, and Witnesses for Our Time Sacred Voices: Essential Women's Voices Through the Ages Sacred Companions Sacred Community: Reflections with Clare of Assisi



O blessed poverty