Servite Order

The Order of Servants of Mary (Servite Friars) is a religious Order of men dating back almost 800 years.  Founded in 1233 in the culturally and materially rich Italian city of Florence, its origins were seven merchants (traditionally called the Seven Holy Founders).  Their devotion to Mary the Mother of Jesus and their desire to live a life dedicated to God led them, like St. Francis of Assisi, to abandon their wealth and trade.  In mutual respect they formed a tight-knit community, living not far from the present Duomo in the centre of Florence. 

Later their spiritual journey led them to the heights of Monte Senario.  There others, inspired by their example, joined them and the Order grew and expanded.  Today Servites are in almost every corner of the world, even though relatively few in number (about 1,000 men and 10,000 women).

The inspiration drawn from these seven men is characterised at Servite College by a threefold charism: a strong sense of community, a commitment to service of others and a devotion to the Mother of Jesus that recognizes in her a prime example of Christian living.