May 1 – Saint Teresa of Calcutta: Inspired Missionary and Protector of the Poor

Title: May 1 — Saint Teresa of Calcutta
Life of Saint Teresa of Calcutta
Saint Teresa of Calcutta, born Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu on August 26, 1910, in Skopje, Macedonia, dedicated her life to the service of the poorest of the poor. At the age of 18, she joined the Sisters of Loreto in Ireland, embarking on a journey that would lead her to India. In 1948, she received permission to establish the Missionaries of Charity, a congregation devoted to serving those in dire need. Her unwavering faith, compassion, and humility transformed the lives of countless individuals, and her legacy continues to inspire the faithful around the world. Saint Teresa, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, was canonized by Pope Francis in 2016 and remains a beacon of hope for all who seek to serve others.

Saint Teresa’s life was marked by her profound connection to God and relentless commitment to love in action. She cared for the sick, the dying, and the abandoned in the slums of Calcutta, embodying Christ’s love through her selfless service. Her simple yet profound teachings on serving the needy and her demonstration of joy in sacrifice became vital tenets of the Missionaries of Charity. Teresa advocated for social justice and worked tirelessly to alleviate suffering, earning her the affection and respect of millions. Her writings and reflections, rich in spiritual wisdom, encourage all to heed the call of the Gospel and serve their neighbors in love. Saint Teresa of Calcutta’s enduring legacy is not merely in the work achieved but in the love she radiated, compelling others to accept God’s call to love and serve without condition.

Prayers
Prayer for Compassion
O God, who inspired Saint Teresa of Calcutta to devote her life to the service of the poorest, grant us, through her intercession, the grace to show compassion to those in need. May we embody her spirit of love and service in our daily lives. Amen.

Prayer for the Dying
Heavenly Father, during her life, Saint Teresa embraced the suffering of the dying with tenderness and love. Help us to cherish each life and care for those whom society often forgets. May we follow her example and embrace the gift of mercy and care for all. Amen.

Sacramentals

• Holy water
• Rosary
• Medals of Saint Teresa

Medals
Devotional medals often depict Saint Teresa in her traditional white sari with blue borders, frequently shown holding a cross or serving the poor. These symbols highlight her mission of love and service.

Relics
Saint Teresa of Calcutta’s tomb is located at the Mother House of the Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata, India, which remains a site of pilgrimage and prayer for those seeking inspiration from her life and intercession.

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