Mother Teresa: ‘She was the living example of a saint’

Fr.  Paul Anyidoho is a Roman Catholic chaplain with the Multi-faith and Spirituality Centre at Concordia.
 

The contemporary world has witnessed the colossal work of women in various communities across local and global landscapes. What often begins as a drop of rain, over time adds up to be as huge as the ocean.

So were the contributions of Mother Teresa, popularly known as "the living example of a saint" during her lifetime. She was officially declared blessed in 2003, and will be canonized this Sunday, September 4.

Born in 1910, Mother Teresa was a Roman Catholic nun who lived according to three modest tenets: good works, the principle of life and community. She was part of the Sisters of Loreto in Ireland. Later, she established the Missionaries of Charity to promote her way of life.

Mother Teresa was convinced that each human is called upon to do something for the common good of all. For her, this meant feeding the poor, providing care for the sick and finding shelter for the homeless.

Her work in Calcutta beamed like a lighthouse worldwide. She felt that it was as part of a community that people could best serve the common good, both as individuals and collectively. Mother Teresa knew the value of living her life as a beacon, but she was also devoted to silent meditation, reflection and evaluation prior to and after her daily commitments.

Mother Teresa’s way of life earned her the world's recognition. She was a living saint and model for all, no matter their faith.

As one of the outstanding examples of women in the world and in faith communities, like the Catholic Church, she illustrated how to work for the common good. Mother Teresa showed us that there are so many modest ways that all people can contribute toward the good of the world. 

Many Canadians will remember her visit to Montreal 30 years ago, which inaugurated our spatial link with her. All in Canada can be in communion with Mother Teresa to celebrate this recognition and that of all great women of our time.

Find out more about Concordia's Multi-faith and Spirituality Centre.