Sancta Clara Monastery

The Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration at Sancta Clara Monastery in Canton, Ohio, are cloistered, contemplative nuns dedicated to Franciscan spirituality and Eucharistic adoration. Founded in 1946, they live a life of prayer, penance, and community, offering daily Mass at 9 AM and public adoration from 7:15 AM to 5:30 PM. Known for their peaceful atmosphere and homemade bread and soup sales, they welcome visitors for reflection and spiritual renewal.

The Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration (PCPA) at Sancta Clara Monastery are a community of cloistered, contemplative nuns rooted in Franciscan spirituality and dedicated to Eucharistic adoration. Founded in 1946 by Reverend Mother Mary Agnes, the monastery was established in Canton, Ohio, on a 15-acre estate donated by the O’Dea family. The nuns live a life of prayer, penance, and community, guided by the teachings of St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi. Their mission centers on perpetual adoration of the Eucharist, offering daily Mass at 9 AM and public adoration from 7:15 AM to 5:30 PM.

The Poor Clares follow a rule of enclosure, physically separating themselves from the world to focus on prayer and contemplation. They support the Church through their intercessory prayers and spiritual sacrifices. Their daily schedule includes the celebration of the liturgy, meditation, and communal prayer. Visitors are welcome to attend Mass, participate in adoration, or simply enjoy the serene environment of the monastery grounds.

The community is known for its bread and soup sales, annual events like the Nun Run and Family Picnic, and gift shop featuring handmade rosaries and spiritual items. The Poor Clares also rely on the generosity of donors and supporters to sustain their mission. As one visitor noted, the monastery is a 'beautiful and peaceful' place where 'He is present there in the Eucharist' [Review 3].

Newcomers are warmly welcomed to visit and experience the quiet beauty of the monastery. As one visitor described, 'It’s like a trip back in time' [Review 7], and the sisters are 'always friendly' [Review 10].

Sancta Clara Monastery in Canton, OH, offers a serene, contemplative space rooted in Franciscan spirituality and Eucharistic adoration. Visitors will find a peaceful atmosphere with daily Mass at 9 AM and public adoration from 7:15 AM to 5:30 PM, complemented by the community’s handmade goods and welcoming presence for quiet reflection or spiritual renewal.

Pros

• Daily Mass and public Eucharistic adoration with clear posted times
• Welcoming environment for visitors seeking quiet reflection or spiritual renewal
• Handmade bread, soup, and gift shop items available at events
• Annual events like the Nun Run and Family Picnic foster community engagement
• Historic, peaceful grounds with gardens and a Rosary Walk

Cons

• Limited information on accessibility features for visitors with mobility needs
• Specific details about family or children’s ministries are not provided
• Gift shop and some events have restricted hours requiring advance planning