A well known figure in 20th century charity is now officially a Saint.
Mother Teresa was confirmed as a Saint this morning by Pope Francis at the end of a homily delivered in St Peter’s Square.
The Pope said in all aspects of her life, Mother Teresa was a generous dispenser of divine mercy, who made herself available for everyone through her welcome and defence of human life.
Teresa founded the Missionaries of Charity in 1950, which cares for many of those in need including refugees, former prostitutes, sick and abandoned children, and people with AIDS.
Teresa was not universally lauded, and was subject to significant criticism regarding the secret baptism of dying patients without regard for the individual’s religion and her anti abortion views.
Among the other honours she received, was a Nobel Peace Prize in 1979.
Teresa died in 1997 at the age of 87 in Calcutta, India.
Let us imitate Mother Teresa who made works of mercy the guide of her life and the path towards holiness.
— Pope Francis (@Pontifex) September 3, 2016
Let us carry Mother Teresa’s smile in our hearts and give it to those whom we meet along our journey. pic.twitter.com/YNGkhd9Z6m
— Pope Francis (@Pontifex) September 4, 2016
