Rome, April 2026: An International Commission had gathered in Rome to work on revising the General Constitutions of the Sisters of the Order of Saint Clare, also known as the Poor Clares.

A Process of Discernment for Our Time

The Constitutions are the text that governs the life, prayer, poverty, and fraternity of Poor Clare communities around the world. Every few decades, the Order undertakes a revision to reexamine the Rule of Saint Clare in light of today’s challenges, while remaining faithful to the 13th-century Franciscan charism.

The Commission brings together sisters from different continents. Their mission is to listen to the communities, assess what helps them live out the Gospel today, and propose a revised text for the Holy See’s approval.

A milestone marked by the papal audience

As part of their work, the members of the Commission were received by the Pope to present the progress of their reflections. The Minister General of the Order of Friars Minor, Brother Massimo Fusarelli, had personally visited the temporary worksite to ensure that the work was proceeding in the spirit of communion and obedience that characterizes the Order.

Between work sessions, the Sisters highlighted the warm welcome they received in Rome: “Excellent company, a magnificent location, and good food,” said one participant. The only minor complaint, shared with a sense of humor, was the heat in the meeting rooms, which made them want to “turn down the thermostat”!!!

Why is this important?

This revision does not change the Rule of St. Clare, but it helps the 11,000 Poor Clares spread across 76 countries to live out this Rule in a vibrant way. Balancing contemplative life, silence, manual labor, and prayer for the Church and the world, the Poor Clares want Constitutions that support their vocation in the heart of the 21st century.

The new version of the Constitutions will be submitted to the general chapters of the various federations before final promulgation.