Community of St Clare (OSC)

We follow a contemplative tradition that is eight hundred years old with a fresh and informal spirit. In the pattern of St Clare, hierarchy is tempered by mutuality and warm relations within the community. As the Second Order of the international Society of St Francis, we have brothers and sisters in the First and Third Orders, and we enjoy close, though informal, ties with the Roman Catholic Poor Clares.

Our worship and prayer throughout the day are interspersed with domestic tasks in the convent and guest house, and environmentally friendly work in the large garden and grounds where we raise fruit and vegetables to eat, and keep hens who give us eggs. We also engage in our industries (altar breads, printing, cards) which with the guest house help us to earn our living, and where possible to share with others.

Responding to God’s call in our daily lives within the enclosure, we also enjoy visitors, holidays and the use of books, newspapers and the internet for a wider view of daily life.

Women seriously interested in the contemplative life (with or without the intention of joining the community) are welcome to take part for up to a year in our life of Franciscan simplicity and joy.