A former actress from Northern Ireland, once known for her rebellious youth and brief career in television, is now on the path to sainthood nearly nine years after her untimely death. Sister Clare Crockett, who died at 33 in the 2016 earthquake in Ecuador, is being considered for beatification, with the Catholic Church recently opening her case in a ceremony held on January 12, 2025, at the Cathedral of Alcalá de Henares in Madrid, Spain.
Crockett’s story is one of remarkable transformation. Before becoming a nun, she had been involved in the entertainment industry, even starring in the 2002 TV movie Sunday. She also turned down an opportunity to host on Nickelodeon, a career that could have propelled her further into the limelight. But it was a spontaneous decision, made while holding a beer and a cigarette, that led her to leave it all behind. She chose to follow a spiritual path instead, joining the Servant Sisters of the Home of the Mother in 2001.
Born in Londonderry, Northern Ireland, Sister Clare’s decision to leave behind fame for faith shocked those around her. Her sister, Shauna Gill, spoke about the unexpected nature of Clare’s calling. “Never in a million years did we think she was going to be a nun, never mind make her way to sainthood,” Gill told BBC News Northern Ireland.
Sister Clare’s journey toward sainthood began when she took her first religious vows in 2006, followed by her perpetual vows in 2010. Throughout her life as a nun, she served in various countries, including Spain, the U.S., and Ecuador. It was in Ecuador, while teaching music in Playa Prieta, that she lost her life in the earthquake that struck the region on April 16, 2016.
Her death was a devastating loss, but her legacy has only grown in significance. Many believe her intercession has led to miracles, particularly in the area of fertility, which has fueled the momentum of her beatification process. In November 2024, the Catholic Church declared Sister Clare a “Servant of God,” the first step in the process toward sainthood. The next stages involve an investigation into her life and miracles, which could eventually lead to her being declared venerable, then beatified, and ultimately canonized.
The ceremony on January 12 marked a historic moment in the Crockett family’s journey. More than 100 people traveled from various parts of the world to witness the event in Madrid, with over 1,000 attending in total. “Clare’s life will be investigated before we can move on,” her sister explained. “No one knows how long it will take—10 years, 20 years, or even less. It all depends on how things unfold.”
Sister Clare’s memory is also honored in her hometown of Derry, Northern Ireland, where a mural was recently unveiled in her honor. Painted by the UV Arts company, the mural stands as a testament to her legacy in the Brandywell area, where she grew up.
While the family has never fully grieved her loss, they continue to celebrate Sister Clare’s life every day. “She is talked about every day,” Gill shared, noting that although Clare would have loved the attention, she would have preferred to stay out of the spotlight.
Clare’s earlier life, filled with dreams of fame, contrasts sharply with the quiet, humble life she chose later on. In a 2014 reflection, she admitted to being a “wild child” during her teenage years, when she first ventured into television and acting. However, it was her deepening faith that ultimately led her to a life of service, and now, her legacy as a potential saint is inspiring others to follow a similar path.
