2017 marks the 70th anniversary of the Lithuanian Franciscan friars coming to live in Kennebunk, Maine. After suffering great losses to the repressions of the Soviet Union, Lithuanian Franciscans were scattered throughout the world. They eventually reassembled in the monastery at Kennebunk to continue their service to God and their people, as well as to boost the spirit of Lithuanians, both in the diaspora and those who remained in their homeland. During these seven decades, St. Anthony Franciscan Monastery, together with its friars, have become an integral part of the local community. For the full history of the Franciscans in Lithuania and Kennebunk click here.