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While many people know Mother Teresa, for her work in the streets of Kolkata not everyone is aware that her journey started at a convent school. Before establishing the Missionaries of Charity she served as a teacher at St. Mary’s School for Girls in Kolkata, which was managed by the Sisters of Loreto. For twenty years she taught geography and catechism to girls there and witnessed the severe poverty in the vicinity.
The pivotal moment that set the foundation for the Missionaries of Charity happened during a train trip to the Loreto Convent in Darjeeling in 1946 often described as her "call within a call". It was during this journey that Mother Teresa felt compelled to depart from the convent and commit herself to aiding the inhabitants of Kolkatas slums. Nonetheless this transition was not immediate; it took two years for her to receive approval from her superiors and the Vatican to depart from the Loreto order and commence her mission.
The iconic white sari with borders worn by members of Missionaries of Charity is more than attire; it holds profound symbolic significance. The choice of white symbolizes simplicity and purity principles for their community. However it is, within the border where symbolism takes on meaning.
The color blue holds a significance, in the faith as it is often linked to the Virgin Mary, known for her compassion and nurturing nature. When the sari worn by the Missionaries of Charity incorporates this color it symbolizes their commitment to service towards those in need.
Additionally Mother Teresa opted for the sari for reasons when she started her mission work. She chose this attire to blend in with the community she served. The simplicity and commonality of the sari among women allowed her to connect deeply with the impoverished individuals she helped. This choice also reflected the vow of poverty taken by members of Missionaries of Charity highlighting their dedication to living alongside those they serve.
While many are familiar with Missionaries of Charity and their distinct habits and humanitarian efforts fewer are aware of "Co Workers of Mother Teresa " a network comprising laypeople who support the organizations mission. Formally established in 1969 by Cecil Mahoney from Britain this group coordinates efforts, among volunteers who assist Mother Teresas work.
Unlike members of orders Co Workers do not take vows but contribute to the cause through their time, skills and resources.
Volunteers play a role, in supporting the Missionaries of Charity by helping with fundraising organizing supplies and assisting those in need. Their involvement has been essential for the organization to grow globally and reach people beyond what the sisters could achieve on their own.
Although Mother Teresas work with the Missionaries of Charity is often seen as separate from politics there is a connection between the organization and the Indian government that is not widely known. In the 1970s when Indira Gandhi was Indias Prime Minister her government quietly backed the expansion efforts of the Missionaries of Charity. Despite Indias stance Gandhi acknowledged the importance of Mother Teresas humanitarian work, especially in areas where government services were lacking.
This support from the government took forms, such as helping properties for new facilities like homes and clinics. The assistance provided by the government was crucial in enabling the Missionaries of Charity to broaden their activities across India during a time of social changes. It is noteworthy that Mother Teresa chose to remain politically neutral allowing her to maintain relationships with authorities while focusing on her mission of serving those, in need.
In 1979 Mother Teresa received the Nobel Peace Prize, which brought attention to her efforts, with the Missionaries of Charity. What many may not realize is that she accepted the award with her humility and used the platform to highlight the struggles of the impoverished. Of attending a banquet typically held for such occasions Mother Teresa chose to have the $192,000 set aside for the event donated to aid the needy in India. This decision reflected her dedication to helping those fortunate and her belief in utilizing all resources for their well being.
Furthermore Mother Teresa utilized the $175,000 Nobel Prize money to support expanding the Missionaries of Charitys initiatives in establishing shelters for individuals affected by leprosy and AIDS. By turning acclaim into assistance for marginalized communities she solidified her reputation as a symbol of altruistic service.
Although Mother Teresa was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 2016 her journey to sainthood was not without controversy. Some critics have raised concerns about her approach towards suffering opposition to contraception and abortion and standards of care, in her facilities. Despite these criticisms two miracles reportedly linked to her intervention were acknowledged by the Vatican as contributing factors toward her canonization.
The canonization process, for Mother Teresa was sped up which is uncommon in the Catholic Church. Normally there is a five year waiting period after a candidates death. Pope John Paul II waived this requirement due to his bond with Mother Teresa and his appreciation of her efforts. The discussions, about her canonization bring attention to the legacy of Mother Teresa and the Missionaries of Charity showcasing both admiration and criticism towards the impact of her lifes work.
