Mother Teresa’s biography
Mother Teresa, originally named Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu, came into the world on August 26, 1910, in Skopje, which is now the capital of North Macedonia. She was a Roman Catholic nun and missionary who devoted her life to helping the poor, sick, and those in need. She’s one of the most recognized and respected figures of the 20th century, famous for her selfless work and strong dedication to humanitarian causes.
Mother Teresa came from an Albanian family. Her dad, Nikola Bojaxhiu, ran a business, while her mom, Dranafile Bojaxhiu, was really into her faith. When Anjezë was just eight, her father passed away unexpectedly, which put the family in a tough spot financially. However, her mother’s unwavering faith and kindness had a profound impact on her as she grew up.
When she was just 12 years old, she felt a strong pull towards religious life and made the decision to become a missionary. At 18, she packed her bags and headed off to join the Sisters of Loreto in Ireland. There, she picked up English and got ready for her mission work in India.
Doing missionary work in India
– She made her way to India in 1929 and started her novitiate in Darjeeling. In 1931, she took her first religious vows and chose the name Sister Mary Teresa, inspired by St. Thérèse of Lisieux.
She spent almost 20 years teaching at St. Mary’s School for girls in Kolkata (formerly Calcutta), and eventually took on the role of principal there. She was really touched by the poverty and suffering she saw beyond the convent walls.
– Back in 1946, while taking a train ride to Darjeeling, she felt what she called a “call within a call” from God, urging her to help the poorest of the poor. She got the green light to leave the convent and started her mission in the slums of Kolkata.
In 1950, Mother Teresa started the Missionaries of Charity, a religious group focused on helping “the hungry, the naked, the homeless, the crippled, the blind, the lepers, all those people who feel unwanted, unloved, uncared for throughout society.”
It all began with just 13 members, but they quickly expanded, setting up homes, schools, and clinics to help those in need. When she passed away, the Missionaries of Charity had grown to more than 4,000 sisters and were active in 123 countries.
Work and Legacy – Mother Teresa dedicated her efforts to caring for those who were dying, the sick, and the abandoned. She started Nirmal Hriday (“Pure Heart”), a place for the dying, where folks could leave this world with dignity. She set up orphanages, leper colonies, and places for people with disabilities.
– Her philosophy was pretty straightforward but really meaningful: “Not all of us can do great things. “We can make a big difference with little acts of kindness.”
She turned into a worldwide symbol of kindness and giving, picking up a bunch of awards along the way, including the Nobel Peace Prize back in 1979. She accepted the award on behalf of the poor and decided to use the prize money to support her charitable efforts.
Criticism and Controversy – Even though many people admire her, Mother Teresa did face some criticism for her strong stance against abortion and contraception, along with the conditions in a few of her facilities. Some people said she was paying more attention to spiritual care instead of medical treatment. But, you know, her supporters say that what she was really trying to do was bring love and dignity to people who felt left behind by society, instead of just focusing on high-tech medical care.
In her later years, Mother Teresa faced some health challenges, particularly with her heart. She left her role as head of the Missionaries of Charity in 1997 and sadly passed away on September 5, 1997, in Kolkata, at the age of 87.
People all around the globe felt her loss, and India held a state funeral to honor her memory.
Canonization and Sainthood – Mother Teresa was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 2003, only six years after she passed away, and she was canonized as Saint Teresa of Calcutta by Pope Francis on September 4, 2016.
– They celebrate her feast day on September 5, which marks the anniversary of her death.
Key Quotes by Mother Teresa – “Spread love everywhere you go.” Make sure that everyone who crosses your path leaves feeling a bit happier.
– “When you spend your time judging others, you miss out on the chance to love them.”
– “I can do things you can’t, and you can do things I can’t; together, we can achieve amazing things.”
– “A smile is where peace starts.”
Mother Teresa’s life and work still inspire millions of people all over the globe. Her legacy of compassion, humility, and service to humanity shines brightly, inspiring everyone, no matter their faith or background, to take action and spread hope.
Last modified: February 4, 2025
