The presence of Franciscan friars in China dates back to the 13th century and has undergone various phases and forms of interaction with the local population. Over the centuries, this presence evolved, culminating in the 20th century, when it became increasingly focused on the gradual process of indigenization of the Catholic Church. The first half of the 20th century was a transformative period for both Chinese history and the Catholic Church in China. During this time, the Franciscans played a significant role, and notable changes can be observed in several aspects of their mission. This paper examines the role of Franciscan missionaries in China between 1900 and 1949, emphasizing their contributions to the indigenization of the Catholic Church amidst political upheaval and persecution. The year 1900 marked a pivotal moment with the martyrdom of numerous Catholics during the Boxer Rebellion, including many Franciscans, both European and Chinese. After these events, there was a significant increase in foreign missionary activity in China and this led to new initiatives such as establishing institutes for training local priests, publishing periodicals in Chinese and other languages on religious and secular topics, and undertaking a big Bible translation project into Chinese. The subsequent growth in native vocations highlights the Franciscans' commitment to fostering a local church and adapting their approach to align with cultural and societal contexts. Through this analysis, the paper contributes to a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between missionary activity, cultural adaptation, and political change, as well as its impact on the indigenization of the Catholic Church in modern China.