Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu (Mother Teresa)
- Born:
- August 26, 1910, Skopje, Ottoman Empire (present-day North Macedonia)
- Died:
- September 5, 1997, Kolkata, India
- Nationality:
- Indian (naturalized)
- Profession(s):
- Roman Catholic Religious Sister, Missionary
Early Life and Education
- Born to Albanian parents, Nikollë and Dranafile Bojaxhiu.
- Early interest in missionary work and charity.
- At age 18, left home to join the Sisters of Loreto in Ireland.
- Received initial religious training at the Loreto Abbey in Rathfarnham, Ireland.
Career and Major Achievements
- 1929: Arrived in India and began her novitiate in Darjeeling.
- 1931: Took her first religious vows as a Loreto sister.
- 1937: Took her final vows, becoming Mother Teresa.
- 1948: Received permission to leave the Loreto convent and dedicate herself to working with the poor in Kolkata.
- 1950: Founded the Missionaries of Charity, a Roman Catholic religious congregation.
- Expanded the Missionaries of Charity to numerous countries, serving the poor, sick, and dying.
- 1979: Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her humanitarian work.
Notable Works
- Establishment of numerous homes for the dying, orphanages, and leper colonies.
- Advocacy for the poor and marginalized.
- Guidance and expansion of the Missionaries of Charity worldwide.
Legacy and Impact
Mother Teresa is remembered for her unwavering commitment to serving the poorest of the poor. Her establishment of the Missionaries of Charity and tireless work made her a globally recognized figure of compassion and charity. Many have sought to document her life and work. Numerous books analyze and compile 'quotes mother teresa biography in english', reflecting her profound impact.
Awards and Recognition
Award | Year |
---|---|
Ramon Magsaysay Peace Prize | 1962 |
Pope John XXIII Peace Prize | 1971 |
Nobel Peace Prize | 1979 |
Bharat Ratna (India's highest civilian award) | 1980 |