A friar is a member of a religious order in the Christian tradition, particularly within the Roman Catholic Church. Unlike monks, who typically live in monasteries and lead a cloistered life, friars often engage with the community, providing services such as preaching, teaching, and helping the poor. They follow a rule of life that emphasizes poverty, chastity, and obedience. Friars belong to various orders, such as the Franciscans, founded by Saint Francis of Assisi, and the Dominicans, established by Saint Dominic. Each order has its own specific mission and way of life, but all friars share a commitment to serving God and their communities.