Early biographies extol the piety and generosity Clare exhibited in her youngest years. While such praise was common in telling the stories of saints, the evidence of her early behavior contrasts sharply with that of Francis.

Clare’s spiritual path calls for active love and only one who has entered into union with the crucified Spouse can become like the Spouse, crucified in love. The church, in Clare’s view, lives and grows when its members are active lovers not passive listeners.

“O most noble Queen, gaze upon Him, consider Him, contemplate Him, as you desire to imitate Him.” —Second letter to Agnes of Prague

Marianne Cope listened only to God, accepting and caring for people others feared or found distasteful and putting her own health at risk.