Lecture Notes: Mother Teresa's Life and Work

Overview

• Focus on Mother Teresa’s journey, work, and the challenges she faced in Calcutta.

Key Themes

• Service to the Poor

  • Mother Teresa emphasizes living among the poorest and serving them directly.
  • Her dedication to helping the needy, regardless of their background (Hindu, Muslim, etc.).
  • Founding of Missionaries of Charity to further her mission.

• Challenges Faced

  • Struggles with institutional support and recognition from the Church.
  • Tensions between different religious communities in India (Hindus vs. Muslims).
  • Criticism from various intellectuals about her approach and the portrayal of Calcutta.

• Vows and Commitments

  • Mother Teresa takes vows of Chastity, Poverty, and Obedience, with a personal vow to give hope.
  • Emphasizes the importance of faith and charity in her mission.

Important Events

• Return to Calcutta

  • Mother Teresa returns to Calcutta after a period away, feeling a strong call to serve directly in the streets.
  • Her commitment to living simply and serving the poor.

• Founding of Missionaries of Charity

  • Establishment process marked by difficulties but driven by her unwavering faith.
  • The organization grows to serve thousands, opening various centers.

• Collaborations and Fundraising

  • Interaction with donors and fundraising methods, including controversial figures like Mr. Logan.
  • Issues surrounding financial transparency and funding sources.*

Key Quotes

• "Everything we do is just a drop in the ocean, but if we don't do it, that drop will be missing forever."
• "It is in giving that we receive."

Conclusion

• Mother Teresa's legacy is characterized by her profound commitment to serving the most marginalized.
• Her approach to faith and charity emphasizes action over bureaucracy, often challenging institutional norms.
• Continues to inspire global humanitarian efforts.