Mother Teresa is ‘teacher of love’ Kolkata archbishop said on the commemoration of saint’s death.

Pilgrims from Varied Backgrounds Pilgrims hailing from various regions of India, as well as non-Christian admirers of Mother Teresa, came together in a touching display of devotion. They brought flowers and bouquets, seeking the saint’s blessing, and many bowed their heads in reverence beneath the bronze statue of Mother Teresa.

Interfaith Devotion Mohammad Farooque, a martial arts professional, led a group of Muslim friends to pay their respects at Mother Teresa’s tomb in Kolkata. He expressed their happiness at being there to show their love and respect for the beloved saint. Farooque emphasized that the invaluable lesson of love imparted by Mother Teresa remains etched in their hearts, and they seek her blessings for success.

A Special Peace Rally Farooque revealed that their karate team, preparing for a global competition in Thailand in September, visits Mother Teresa’s tomb to seek her blessings for their success. He mentioned that their karate association’s founder organizes a peace rally every year on Mother Teresa’s death anniversary, underlining the enduring impact of her teachings.

Archbishop’s Homage The celebration continued at the archbishop’s house, located a short distance from the motherhouse. Archbishop Thomas D’Souza placed a garland around a life-sized bronze statue of Mother Teresa, recognizing her as the patroness of the archdiocese.

Public Tribute The Catholic Association Bengal organized a public event, a tradition followed for years, allowing people to pay homage to Mother Teresa. Dignitaries representing various faiths, politicians, and artists joined Catholics in offering rose petals before a portrait of the saint, positioned beneath a permanent statue of Mother Teresa at the Allen Park gate junction.

Night of Devotion The remainder of the evening saw a crowded chapel, originally a refectory at the motherhouse, where Mother Teresa was laid to rest in 1997. Devotees, including Missionaries of Charity nuns and novices, gathered in prayer, honoring the memory of the beloved saint.

Anto Akkara, a journalist based in Bangalore, India, regularly contributes to the National Catholic Register.

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