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Mother Teresa: Service and Legacy

Sep 3, 2024

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.