Lubich Chiara

Chiara Lubich (1920-2008) was founder of the Focolare Movement (The Work of Mary). Born in Trent, Italy, her baptismal name was Silvia. In 1943, when she entered the Third Franciscan Order, she took the name Chiara because she was attracted by St. Clare of Assisi’s radical choice of God. 1943 also marks the year that Chiara Lubich made a vow of chastity, and it has become the year associated with the birth of the Focolare. In the course of her life, she saw the spirituality of the Focolare – the spirituality of unity – grow around the world. She was awarded 15 honorary doctoral degrees, numerous civic awards, the Templeton Prize for Progress of Religion, and the UNESCO Peace Prize. She has published more than 50 books in 29 languages.
For more information about Chiara Lubich you can visit centrochiaralubich.org.