POOR CLARE NUNS. — The Institute arose from the union of the independent Communities of Clarisses existing in Newry, Cavan, Keady and Ballyjamesduff in Ireland, recognized by the Sacred Congregation of Religious with the decree of 24 January 1944. It follows the Rule of St Clare approved in 1253 and reformed in 1858.
The purpose of the Institute is the education of youth, especially the poor.
The generalate is at Newry, in the diocese of Dromore, where the novitiate is also located. The professed sisters number 150; there are 5 formed houses and 4 vicariates.
BIBL.: Arch. S. Congr. dei Rel., D. 21. Agostino Pugliese