Saint Mother Teresa — Modern Missionary and Servant of the Poor | Life and Legacy
September 5
modernos Saint Mother Teresa
Mother Teresa of Calcutta, born Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu in 1910 in Skopje, was a Catholic missionary and nun. She founded the Missionaries of Charity to care for the marginalized, especially the destitute and dying. Her unwavering commitment to humility and service earned her the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. She is venerated as a saint for her extraordinary charity and deep faith exemplified through her work with the poorest of the poor.
The name 'Teresa' is of Greek origin, derived from 'Theresa,' meaning 'harvester' or 'reaper,' symbolizing abundance and nurturing. 'Mother' signifies her role as a nurturing spiritual mother to many. The name has cultural significance in Christian tradition as a symbol of compassion and service, especially associated with Saint Teresa of Ávila. Her name reflects her mission to gather those in spiritual and material need and to serve them with love.
Feast Day
September 5
Related Bible Verses
Matthew 25:40
Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for Me.
This verse underscores Mother Teresa’s devotion to serving those in greatest need, viewing each act of kindness as directed to Christ Himself.
Galatians 6:9
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
Her perseverance in relentless charity exemplifies this verse, inspiring countless to continue acts of service despite hardships.
James 2:17
Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
Mother Teresa’s life embodied active faith, demonstrating that true belief calls for compassionate action.
Martyrdom and Canonization
Mother Teresa was canonized as a saint in 2016 by Pope Francis, after a thorough investigation into her life of heroic virtue and miracles attributed to her intercession. She was known for her self-sacrifice and unwavering trust in God amid suffering. The Church recognized her of two verified miracles: healing of a tumour and the spontaneous healing of a man with a brain abscess. Her cause was opened shortly after her death in 1997, and she was beatified in 2003, praised for her humility and dedication to the poorest of the poor, ultimately leading to her canonization. Her exemplary life continues to inspire devout activism and faith-based charity worldwide.
Miracles and Apparitions
Among her most famous miracles is the healing of a dying woman in Calcutta, which was thoroughly investigated and documented by the Vatican. Numerous reports of miraculous healings attributed to her intercession have been validated by church authorities. Apparitions and visions of Mother Teresa have been reported by devotees seeking her intercession, often depicted with a halo or holding a crozier and cross. The Church officially recognizes her miracles as signs of her sanctity, and her relics, including her personal belongings, are venerated in shrines globally.
Prayer and Devotion
Devotees often pray to Saint Mother Teresa for aid in performing acts of charity and compassion. Novenas and prayer cards are widely used to invoke her intercession for healing and comfort to the suffering. Many wear medals or scapulars bearing her image as a reminder to serve others humbly. Pilgrimages to her shrines in Calcutta and around the world foster deep devotion, inspiring the faithful to emulate her example of Christ-like love and selfless service.
Saint Mother Teresa is often depicted holding a cross and a globe symbolizing her universal service. Her relics, including her blood-stained sari, are displayed in various shrines and attract pilgrims from around the world. Her image has become an icon of compassionate service, inspiring countless artworks, documentaries, and charity organizations globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Saint Mother Teresa considered a modern saint?
She was canonized recently and exemplifies contemporary Christian virtues of charity and humility, serving as a model for modern-day service inspired by her deep faith and compassion.
What is the significance of her feast day?
Celebrated on September 5, her feast day marks the anniversary of her death in 1997, honoring her lifelong dedication to serving the poorest and most vulnerable.
Are there miracles attributed to her today?
Yes, many claim miraculous healings through her intercession, which continue to be scrutinized and verified by the Church as signs of her sanctity and ongoing divine support.
Por Laura Jara 
