Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Calcutta (Agenzia Fides) - “Everyone remembers her with affection. Mother Teresa è is still an important figure for the Catholic Church in India, the memory of her example is still vivid she was a person of great significance for the whole of Indian society”, Fides was told by a priest in Calcutta on the occasion of celebrations to commemorate Mother Teresa on the 10th anniversary of her death.
The event is being given much space by the media. Special prayers, Masses, novenas and pilgrimages and commemoration ceremonies have been held since 26 August the date of her birth. From 27 August, the date of her baptism, until 4 September Masses have been celebrated by different bishops and priests at her tomb with the participation of extraordinary crowds of people including many non Christians.
Today 5 September 2007 the 10th anniversary of her death the Mass and commemoration was preisded by the Archbishop of Calcutta Lucas Sirkar and processions with candles have continued all day through the poor parts of the city where Mother Teresa worked. The Mass was followed by a prayer for peace with representatives of all the religious minorities present in India who remember the Mother as a promote of peace and reconciliation, solidarity and charity for all without discrimination. Her example and legacy should help to promote harmony in India, where religious minorities, Christians especially experience the impact of ethnic and religious tension and violence.
Until 13 September there will be various cultural and artistic events dedicated to Mother Teresa, seminars, presentation of books, plays, concerts some performed by Catholic school children. There will also be an interreligious prayer service at the House of Mother Teresa with the participation of leading members of the Christian, Hindu, Muslim and Sikh communities. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 5/9/2007 righe 26 parole 269)
