Never heard of us before? Let us explain…

It all began with Saints Francis and Clare in the 13th century in Assisi, Italy, with the birth of the Franciscan Orders. Fast forward to France in 1854. Mother Marie Claire Bouillevaux, in response to her call to contemplation and adoration of the Eucharist in a spirit of praise and thanksgiving, founded our order which was first known as the Franciscan Nuns of the Blessed Sacrament. It was and still is dedicated to the contemplative way of life with the privilege of Eucharistic adoration with the focus on reparation and thanksgiving to God for all graces received. In 1921, the first American foundation was established in Cleveland, Ohio, from which our monastery was started in 1945 when Mr. and Mrs. John O’Dea offered their mansion for a foundation. A year later, six pioneer Sisters were sent on their way to Canton, Ohio, to officially found Sancta Clara Monastery in 1946. We currently number 14 and hail from all parts of the globe including the United States, the Philippines, Japan, Tanzania, and South Korea.

Devotion to Christ in the Eucharist is and always has been the central element in the Franciscan family. For the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration (PCPA), this devotion is expressed in a particular way through adoration of the exposed Eucharist. This is a special aspect of our effort to live out our call to offer praise and thanksgiving to God with and through Jesus on behalf of all people throughout the world.

Due to the age of our Monastery, we are in need of help for its general upkeep and for several upgrades and repairs to better serve our Community as it continues to grow. With your help and support, you will make that possible and for us to continue to thank and praise God in our adoration for you and the world in all its needs.