...to the home of the Penitient Brothers of Saint Francis

Historically, its origins can be traced to the original penitents of Assisi. They were members of an Order of Penance, a form of life approved by the Church many centuries before Saint Francis began his order, the Franciscans. Its purpose was to invite people to do penance; that is, to turn away from sin in order to develop a closer union with God. The members wore a habit as a sign of their commitment. In 1207, Francis began a life of penance and wore the penitent habit. He spent two years as a penitent and was recognized by Bishop Guido of Assisi as such. In 1221 he wrote the First Letter to the Penitents, in which he presents guidelines for the Brothers and Sisters of Penance who wished to share in his Gospel way of life. From the early beginnings of Francis' order, the Third Order Regular grew out of the Order of Penance. There are many different expressions within the Franciscan Family, especially the third order communities.

The twenty-first century - the "New Millenium" - has brought about new problems for the church. The need for penance is required today as it was when St. Francis began a spiritual revolution. The moral and spiritual fiber of our Western Culture is being decimated by self-indulgence, instant gratification, and the trappings of the secular world. Francis was told to "rebuild His church", that command has been the cornerstone of Franciscan charism and communites for over 800 years. Bringing souls to Christ one soul at a time, through prayer, sacrifice and action.