Franciscan Missions

Franciscan Missions refer to a series of religious missions established by the Franciscan Order, a branch of the Catholic Church founded by St. Francis of Assisi in the early 13th century. These missions aimed to spread Christianity, provide education, and support indigenous communities primarily in the Americas during the colonial period. Franciscans focused on living simply and promoting peace, often emphasizing social justice and community service. The missions played a significant role in cultural exchanges, sometimes leading to conflicts, as they influenced both local customs and the spread of European traditions.