Inspired by a Child

Since 1999, Mother Joan Clare has cared for abandoned, abused, and severely disabled children at Queen of Peace Orphanage in the Philippines—and her work was all inspired by a tiny, starving child she found in Jamaica.

Just as Mother Joan was preparing to retire from 50 years of teaching, the Lord intervened. While making a home visit to a family in Jamaica, Mother Joan discovered a small child cowering underneath a bush. He was alone, with no parents or siblings, and so hungry that he had literally chewed away his own fingers.

At that moment, Mother Joan thought, “I think I’m retiring, but the Lord is showing me he still has work for me to do.”

On September 5, 1997, Mother Joan Clare arrived in the Philippines to begin her service in Naga City with the Compassionate Franciscan Sisters of the Poor (once the Missionaries of the Poor—Sisters).

As she stepped off the plane, she was informed that Mother Teresa had passed away that very day. Mother Joan bowed her head and promised the Lord that the important work of caring for the poor would continue through her.

Indeed, Mother Joan has carried on a legacy of service. Thanks to support from generous Catholics through Cross International Catholic Outreach, she and the Compassionate Franciscan Sisters of the Poor are making a huge difference, especially among the children at Queen of Peace.

With every child she feeds, clothes, and shares the message of Christ with, Mother Joan is answering God’s call to serve, love, and minister to the poorest among us.

“Queen of Peace gives these children a future, gives them hope,” she said. “It allows them to live in peace and in the light of God.”

Please pray for Mother Joan and the precious children at Queen of Peace Orphanage. To learn more about Queen of Peace and see how can help the children there, please click here.