Mother Teresa
Mother Teresa, known as Saint Teresa of Calcutta, is a global symbol of selfless service and compassion. Born Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu on August 26, 1910, in Skopje, Macedonia, she dedicated her life to serving the poorest of the poor. Her extraordinary journey from a young girl in a devout Catholic family to an internationally revered humanitarian is a story of unwavering faith, boundless love, and tireless dedication. From an early age, Mother Teresa felt a deep calling to religious life. At 18, she joined the Sisters of Loreto in Ireland, where she received the name Sister Mary Teresa after Saint Thérèse of Lisieux. In 1929, she was sent to India, where she began her novitiate in Darjeeling. It was during her time in Calcutta (now Kolkata) that she witnessed the abject poverty and suffering that would shape her future mission. In 1946, Mother Teresa experienced what she later described as “the call within the call.” She felt a divine inspiration to leave the convent and live among the poor, dedicating herself to serving “the poorest of the poor.” With permission from the Vatican, she founded the Missionaries of Charity in 1950. This congregation grew exponentially, spreading across the globe, and its members committed to vows of poverty, chastity, obedience, and free service to the most destitute. Mother Teresa’s work was characterized by her hands-on approach. She established hospices, soup kitchens, orphanages, and schools for the underprivileged. Her deep empathy and relentless efforts provided care for the sick, dying, orphaned, and marginalized, offering them dignity and hope in the darkest times. Her commitment and compassion earned her numerous accolades, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. Mother Teresa’s legacy transcends her lifetime. After her passing on September 5, 1997, her work continued through the Missionaries of Charity, which remains active worldwide. In 2016, she was canonized as Saint Teresa of Calcutta by Pope Francis, recognizing her sanctity and her unwavering dedication to humanity. Mother Teresa’s teachings continue to inspire millions. Her famous words, “Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love,” encapsulate her philosophy of compassionate service. Her life is a testament to the impact of love, humility, and selflessness, encouraging others to contribute positively to society, regardless of the scale of their actions. Mother Teresa’s life story is a powerful narrative of love, faith, and unwavering commitment to serving humanity. Her work and legacy offer valuable lessons in compassion, humility, and the profound impact of small acts of kindness. As we reflect on her contributions, we are reminded of the enduring power of selfless service and the profound difference one individual can make in the lives of many. For those seeking inspiration from Mother Teresa’s life and teachings, her journey serves as a guiding light, encouraging each of us to find ways to serve others with love and compassion.