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The Franciscans arrived in England 800 years ago this month, landing in Dover, Kent, on 10 September 1224. Angellus of Pisa - who had been sent to England by St Francis of Assisi - led the group, with the first Franciscan community comprised of five friars, established in Canterbury.

St Francis has often been described as the most Christ-like figure to ever live. He took the Gospel literally, lived it deeply and had a love for God that flowed through every aspect of his life and being. In sixteen short years, the Franciscans spread through the whole of Britain, recruiting 1,200 men to the Order - including a community near St Paul's Cathedral in London, and Oxford. Today, the Franciscan charism continues to attract people from across the world through a charism of radical Gospel living, care for the poor, care for creation and the pursuit of justice and peace. 

Commemorating the anniversary, Franciscans of all ages journeyed to Dover on 10 September to give thanks for, and remember, their brothers who arrived 800 years ago. Reflecting on the day, a representative said:

"We stood on the beach and we celebrated Mass as Catholic and Anglican Franciscan brothers and sisters, side by side.

"We remembered the profound courage of SS Francis and Clare and gave thanks for the first friars in England - and the Franciscan men and women who served these isles before us. Then we walked the same journey to Canterbury to celebrate in thanksgiving and prayer at Canterbury Cathedral. It was a joy to be together as a Franciscan family, living the radical Gospel in the footsteps of Francis and Clare as we journey to God."

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You can find out more on the Franciscan 800th Anniversary website. With thanks to The Franciscan Centre, Godalming, for the story.