Bishop Olmsted blesses future home of Poor Clares

TONOPAH, Ariz. — In the desert lands just an hour west of Phoenix lies the future home and monastery of the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration. Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted joined the Poor Clare nuns, along with a dozen or so friends and supporters of the religious order’s efforts, for a prayer service and land blessing.

The March 2 event began with a stroll through the expansive desert land, singing, a reading from the book of Deuteronomy, and a reflection from Bishop Olmsted about the mission of the Poor Clare sisters and the important role they provide through prayer and adoration. The bishop blessed the 40 acres of land that will be home to a monastery and chapel.

“May the spirit of St. Francis and St. Clare so permeate this land that all will know that truly this is holy land, a place set apart for perpetual adoration, ardent supplication, and unending thanksgiving,” the bishop prayed.

The land was gifted to the Poor Clares last October and they are currently in the fundraising phase of the project.

For more information about the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration, visit www.desertnuns.org.