Missionaries of Charity Celebrate Life and Legacy of St. Mother Teresa with 25-Year Anniversary Mass and Festival

St. Mother Teresa holds a special place in the heart of San Francisco. During her life, she visited the city many times, often without fanfare, to encourage her isters and assist them in their work. Continuing the mission of their foundress, the Missionaries of Charity serve Christ in the poorest of the poor areas of the Archdiocese, providing a glimpse of the tender love of Christ toward humanity.

This year marks 25 years since the death of Mother Teresa. To celebrate her life and legacy, the Missionaries of Charity gathered at Immaculate Conception Chapel on September 5 with Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone and many of their co-workers and supporters. The celebration included Mass and a festival reception with cultural dancing, live music and lunch.

In his homily, Archbishop Cordileone encouraged those in attendance to follow the example of Mother Teresa, performing corporal works of mercy to bring the light of Christ to the world. “The result is light shining in the darkness. It’s healing, giving glory to God. There is so much darkness in the world today. This is how we bring light…even amidst our own struggles and our own darkness.”

Following Mass, the faithful joined the sisters for a festival and lunch. The entertainment included Korean and Argentinian dancing, a remarkable rendition of Panis Angelicus and Bossa Nova jazz music played by two young musicians.

The Archbishop also thanked the Missionaries of Charity for their example and work in the Archdiocese, “Thank you for continuing to be [a] light in the world…Mother always spoke about love…and that is why it’s always such a joy to be with you, beloved daughters, in our Archdiocese because your community is always a place of love. One finds happiness, and peace, and great joy. I cannot express to you enough my thanks for what you do and who you are in our Archdiocese.”