St. Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa)

Born: August 26, 1910
Died: September 5, 1997
Canonized: September 4, 2016

Early Life

Born Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu in Skopje (now North Macedonia), she felt called to missionary work from a young age. At 18, she joined the Sisters of Loreto and was sent to India, where she taught at a school in Calcutta.

Call Within a Call

In 1946, while traveling by train, Mother Teresa experienced what she described as "a call within a call" to serve the poorest of the poor. She left her teaching position and began working in the slums of Calcutta.

Missionaries of Charity

In 1950, she founded the Missionaries of Charity, which grew to operate hospices, orphanages, and charity centers worldwide. The organization continues her work today in over 130 countries.

Recognition and Awards

Mother Teresa received numerous awards, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. However, she always emphasized that her work was done for Jesus, whom she saw in every person she served.

Legacy

St. Teresa of Calcutta remains an icon of compassionate service to the poor and marginalized. Her example continues to inspire millions around the world to serve those most in need.

"Give, but give until it hurts." - St. Teresa of Calcutta