Saint Teresa of Calcutta, widely known as Mother Teresa, was a Catholic nun and missionary who dedicated her life to serving the poorest of the poor. Born in present-day North Macedonia, she later moved to India, where she founded the Missionaries of Charity. Through this community, she cared for the sick, the dying, the homeless, and those who were often forgotten by society.
Mother Teresa believed that every person possessed inherent dignity because they were created and loved by God. Her ministry was marked by compassion, humility, and a profound commitment to seeing Christ in those who suffered. Despite experiencing periods of spiritual dryness, she remained faithful to her vocation and continued serving others with remarkable perseverance.
Her witness inspired people throughout the world to practice charity and mercy. She was canonized in 2016 and is remembered as a powerful example of selfless love and service.
Life of Saint Teresa of Calcutta (1910–1997)
Founder of the Missionaries of Charity and servant of the poor.
Canonization (2016) Canonized by Pope Francis.
Patron of:
Missionaries of Charity, the Poor, the Sick, the Dying, Humanitarian Workers, and Those Serving the Marginalized
Feast Day:
September 5
Illustration by: Colton Rompala