A band of penitents from the town of Assisi became the Franciscan Order in the 13^th century when the Pope gave Francis and his companions the mandate to preach the Gospel. Ever since then Franciscans have sought to walk in the footsteps of Jesus by proclaiming the Good News by word and deed. Francis counseled his brothers: "Preach the Gospel -- if necessary, use words." We best serve the Word of God by our life together. We also do this in a variety of ministries: missions, retreats, days of recollection (for lay people, priests, and religious), workshops, publishing, and many other areas for personal and spiritual growth.