Every year on 5 September, the world honors Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta. This is because she dedicated her life to helping the poor, sick, and marginalized. She was born Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu in Shkup/Skopje on 26 August 1910. Because of her lifelong commitment, 5 September also marks her passing in 1997.

Her calling led her to become an Albanian-Indian Catholic nun. Then, she founded the Missionaries of Charity in 1950. At first, she worked in the slums of Calcutta. Next, her mission expanded to more than 130 countries. As a result, thousands of sisters and brothers now run orphanages, schools, hospices, and centers for the homeless, people with leprosy, and those living with HIV/AIDS.

Her humility, simplicity, and faith inspired people worldwide. For example, in 1979, she received the Nobel Peace Prize. Because she wanted the poor to benefit, she asked that the banquet funds go directly to them. Later, she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in the United States. In addition, India awarded her the Bharat Ratna, its highest civilian honor.

Then, on 4 September 2016, Pope Francis canonized her as Saint Teresa of Calcutta. Tens of thousands of pilgrims attended the Vatican ceremony. Since that day, 5 September has been her official feast day. Therefore, people celebrate it with prayers, masses, and acts of charity inspired by her example.

In Albania, people honor her as one of the nation’s most admired figures. Consequently, state institutions, the Catholic Church, and citizens unite every 5 September. For instance, ceremonies at Mother Teresa Square in Tirana include laying wreaths at her monument. Meanwhile, special masses take place in cathedrals and churches. In addition, schools and organizations host events that celebrate her Albanian roots and her message of love and service.

Mother Teresa once said: “By blood, I am Albanian. By citizenship, an Indian. By faith, I am a Catholic nun. As to my calling, I belong to the world. As to my heart, I belong entirely to the Heart of Jesus.” Because of this, people remember that true greatness comes from performing even the smallest acts with love. As a result, her canonization ensures that her memory continues to inspire compassion and moral guidance for all humanity.

RTI