The apostolate of the community is always to be seen as part of the work of the Church and in agreement with the local ordinary, according to Canon 678 and 681.  The apostolic mission of the community, carried on in accord with Canon 675 § 1, is twofold:

First, our mission is to serve the materially poor, most especially the destitute and homeless.  Friaries not primarily focused on formation should have one or more facilities to provide for the needs of the poor, for example, a shelter, soup kitchen, food pantry and/or clothing room.  Each of these works must be directed by a friar to preserve the Catholic and Franciscan character.  Every member of the community is to be personally and directly involved in “hands on” work with the poor.  All service to the poor is given completely free of charge.

Second, our mission of evangelization in the Church is through preaching and teaching the Holy Gospel, and by sharing the rich treasures of our Catholic faith with all.  This can take many forms so that every friar may assist in his own way.  Some expressions of this apostolate are:  providing missionary centers for the poor, street evangelization, parish missions, retreats, days of recollection, pilgrimages, spiritual direction, pastoral counseling, religious education and sacramental ministry (CFR Constitutions, #107).