ON THIS DAY
Mother Teresa, born as Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu on August 26, 1910, in Skopje (now in North Macedonia), is one of the most revered figures of the 20th century. As the world commemorates her birthday, here are ten essential things to know about this remarkable woman:
1. Early Life and Calling
Born into a devout Catholic family, Anjezë was deeply influenced by her mother’s charitable deeds. At the age of 18, she left her home to join the Sisters of Loreto in Ireland, where she took the name Teresa after Saint Thérèse of Lisieux.
2. Missionary Work in India
Mother Teresa arrived in India in 1929 and began her novitiate in Darjeeling. She taught at St. Mary’s High School in Kolkata (Calcutta) for nearly two decades, but in 1946, she experienced a “call within a call” that led her to leave the convent and work directly with the poorest of the poor.
3. Founding the Missionaries of Charity
In 1950, Mother Teresa founded the Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata, with a mission to care for “the hungry, the naked, the homeless, the crippled, the blind, the lepers, all those people who feel unwanted, unloved, uncared for throughout society.” The order grew rapidly, eventually spreading across the globe.
4. Nobel Peace Prize Winner
Mother Teresa was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 for her humanitarian work. She accepted the prize on behalf of the “unwanted, unloved, and uncared for,” and used the occasion to highlight the plight of the poor and suffering worldwide.
5. Life of Humility and Service
Despite global recognition, Mother Teresa remained dedicated to her simple life of service. She wore the humble blue-bordered white sari that became synonymous with her and her order, and she continued to live in the same modest quarters as the people she served.
6. Criticism and Controversies
Mother Teresa was not without her critics. Some questioned the quality of medical care provided in her homes, her views on suffering, and her opposition to abortion and contraception. Despite the controversies, she remained steadfast in her mission, believing that her work was a manifestation of God’s love.
7. Beatification and Canonization
Mother Teresa was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 2003, earning the title “Blessed Teresa of Calcutta.” On September 4, 2016, she was canonized by Pope Francis and officially declared a saint of the Roman Catholic Church.
8. Legacy of Compassion
Mother Teresa’s legacy lives on through the continued work of the Missionaries of Charity, which operates homes for the sick, orphanages, and care centers worldwide. Her life and work have inspired countless individuals to dedicate themselves to the service of others.
9. Her Influence on Global Leaders
Throughout her life, Mother Teresa met with numerous global leaders, including Popes, Presidents, and even the Queen of England. Her influence extended far beyond the religious community, as she often advocated for peace, compassion, and the importance of serving the needy.
10. A Symbol of Love and Peace
Mother Teresa’s life is a testament to the power of love and the impact one person can have on the world. Her unwavering commitment to the poor and suffering has made her a symbol of peace and compassion, inspiring people of all faiths and backgrounds.
As we celebrate her birthday, Mother Teresa’s message of love, service, and humility continues to resonate, reminding us all of the importance of caring for one another. Her life serves as a powerful example of how selfless dedication can change the world.
Feature Image: This photo, taken in December 1980, shows Mother Teresa with a group of children who she looked after in Kolkata, India| Courtesy: Getty Images
