Order of St Clare-Poor Clares

The Order of St Clare - Poor Clares is a contemplative monastic community rooted in the tradition of St Clare, situated at Upper Faughart near Dundalk, Co Louth. The sisters devote their lives to prayer, silence and hospitality, welcoming visitors to experience the monastery's peaceful atmosphere during set hours on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 2.30 pm to 4.30 pm, and offering evening prayer on Sundays at 4.30 pm. The community observes a monthly retreat, during which the monastery is closed to the public.

In addition to its regular prayer schedule, the Poor Clares organise special events that support women discerning a vocation to religious life. A notable example is the "Rise of the Roses" summer tour, an afternoon of conversation, prayer and music designed for women across Ireland who wish to explore consecrated life. The order also maintains a sister community in Waverley, New South Wales, extending its spiritual outreach beyond Ireland.

Through open doors, prayerful gatherings and vocation-focused programmes, the Poor Clares provide a welcoming space for spiritual reflection, community support and the sharing of their rich monastic heritage.