Cardinal Roche: Mother Teresa’s ‘Beacon of hope’ in Roman Calendar

The Humble Example of Mother Teresa: A New Feast Day in the Roman Calendar

Exciting news has emerged from the Dicastery for Divine Worship, as St. Teresa of Calcutta is officially inscribed in the General Roman Calendar. This decree, released by Cardinal Prefect Arthur Roche, outlines the liturgical texts for her feast day on September 5 and praises the humble example of service set by the woman known in life as Mother Teresa.

On December 24, 2024, Pope Francis initiated the Jubilee Year of Hope by opening the door in the Vatican Basilica. In response, the Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments issued a Decree on behalf of the Holy Father inscribing the celebration of Saint Teresa of Calcutta in the Roman Rite calendar on September 5 as an optional memorial.

This inclusion was a response to the requests of bishops, religious, and faithful associations, acknowledging the global impact of Saint Teresa of Calcutta’s spirituality. She is recognized as an exceptional witness to hope for those marginalized in society.

Accompanying the Decree are elements in Latin to be added to all liturgical Calendars and books for Mass and the Liturgy of the Hours. The Roman Martyrology also includes her feast day.

Pope Francis, during the Rite of Canonization of Saint Teresa of Calcutta on September 4, 2016, highlighted her as a conduit of divine mercy and a beacon of light and salt in the world. Her mission to the marginalized remains a powerful testament to God’s presence among the poorest of the poor.

The liturgical texts for her celebration emphasize her spirituality, urging us to minister to Christ through our service to the needy. The readings reflect on pleasing God through acts of mercy, echoing Mother Teresa’s life devoted to serving the least of these.

As we contemplate this new feast day for Mother Teresa, may we be inspired by her example of humble service and unwavering love for all humanity. Let us emulate her compassion and dedication to defending the dignity of every life, especially those who are marginalized and abandoned.

Cardinal Arthur Roche, Prefect of the Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, invites us to honor Mother Teresa’s legacy and strive for a world where love and service reign supreme.

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