The church is an integral part of any nation, writes vancouveranka. This is true regardless of its form—whether secular or religious. Both types signify the presence of a significant number of believers who feel the need to visit sacred places and participate in divine liturgies.
Moreover, it is undeniable that the dominance of the church’s role in a nation’s life is evident in many historical examples. There have been instances where spiritual leaders significantly influenced the course of state and political events.
But let’s return to modern realities.
Canada is no exception. It is home to numerous churches, temples, and other sacred sites frequented by members of various faiths. Among them, monasteries hold a special place. These structures, with their remarkable histories, are truly guardians of the spiritual heritage of their regions. This is hard to dispute. Visiting one of these unique places often evokes an incredible sense of connection to something supreme, luminous, and incomprehensible.
The “Saint Clare” Monastery is a renowned shrine in British Columbia. All the nuns residing there belong to the Order of the Poor Clares, a contemplative women’s community under the patronage of Saint Clare of Assisi.
This shrine has a fascinating history. Its founders made every effort to carefully preserve and pass on the monastery’s traditions to future generations of nuns.
Despite the fact that the nuns of this Canadian shrine had to change their place of residence several times, all dogmas, traditions, and most importantly, the pious intentions and secluded way of life, have been preserved.
In our material, based on poorclares.ca, we introduce readers to this extraordinary monastery in British Columbia.
How It All Began
In 1912, three nuns arrived in British Columbia. They eventually established the first English-speaking monastery in Canada. However, due to the unsuitable local climate for most of the nuns, many chose to relocate to New Orleans.
Only three nuns made the final decision to stay. They spent years adapting to their chosen location.
Relocation
Over time, they gained many new disciples, which led to the formation of another community. However, growing urbanization and the challenges of maintaining such a large monastery prompted a relocation to Duncan in 1973.
Further Changes
By 2010, the community comprised only eight members. However, the new living conditions allowed for much more efficient and developed operations.
In 2012, the community celebrated its 100th anniversary of service in the Diocese of British Columbia.
In September 2018, the five remaining sisters in Duncan relocated to a residence previously occupied by Franciscan monks.
A Living Tradition
It is fair to say that this monastery, in addition to its primary purpose, plays an active role in the region’s life. It fosters spirituality among the local population and shares its experience with those aspiring to join the monastic life.
The longstanding traditions and rituals have made “Saint Clare” one of the most respected and renowned shrines in British Columbia. The piety and wisdom of the nuns allow this place to be described as a true “cradle” of spirituality. Such a term is no exaggeration, as the monastery annually attracts many believers seeking answers to their most profound questions in God.