Where do I start?

I am 58 years of age and have just been asked by some friends to join them playing chess one night per week.  I have never really played chess before and only know how to move the pieces.  How does a person begin to learn to play this game?  Should I sign up to chess mentor and start learning?  I know that if I offered someone a game it would be over in a few minutes I should think. Any help would be appreciated.

Antonio.

Wrong advice.

Learn endgame theory and tactics first. Then look at general opening principles. Leave learning openings until much later.

Here is a good place to start:

http://www.chess.com/article/view/study-plan-directory

Not all the contenet is free, but much of the beginner stuff is, and membership rates are low (months membership for about the cost of movie or bottle of inexpensive wine).