The Servite Order, officially known as the Order of Servants of Mary, is one of the five original mendicant orders in the Catholic Church. Started by the Seven Holy Founders in 1233, it includes several branches of friars, contemplative nuns, a congregation of religious sisters, and lay groups. The order's objectives are the sanctification of its members, the preaching of the Gospel, and the propagation of devotion to the Mother of God, with special reference to her sorrows.