Mother Teresa Birth Anniversary 2026 is observed on 26 August 2026, marking the 116th birth anniversary of the globally recognised humanitarian and founder of the Missionaries of Charity.
The occasion commemorates her lifelong dedication towards serving people affected by poverty, illness, homelessness and social exclusion. Through her work in Kolkata and the global expansion of the Missionaries of Charity, Mother Teresa became one of the most influential humanitarian figures of the 20th century.
Mother Teresa passed away on 5 September 1997 in Kolkata at the age of 87. She was canonised as a saint by Pope Francis on 4 September 2016.
Who Was Mother Teresa?
Mother Teresa was a Catholic nun and humanitarian who devoted her life to caring for the poor, sick and vulnerable sections of society.
Born as Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu on 26 August 1910 in Skopje, she belonged to an Albanian family. From a young age, she developed an interest in religious service and helping people in need.
At the age of 18, she joined the Sisters of Loreto, an Irish religious congregation working in India. After completing her training, she arrived in India in 1929 and began her journey of service.
Initially, she worked as a teacher and later became the principal of St. Mary’s High School in Calcutta. However, her close interaction with the poverty and suffering outside the convent deeply influenced her future mission.
Mother Teresa’s Journey of Service in India
Mother Teresa’s experiences in Kolkata’s poor neighbourhoods motivated her to dedicate her life to serving the underprivileged.
In 1948, she received permission to leave the convent school and work directly among people living in extreme poverty. She started by teaching children in slum areas through an open-air school and providing basic support to those who lacked access to essential services.
Her work gradually expanded from education to healthcare, care for abandoned people and support for those suffering from serious illnesses.
Her approach was centred around compassion, dignity and providing care to individuals who were often ignored by society.
Establishment of Missionaries of Charity
Mother Teresa founded the Missionaries of Charity in 1950 after receiving approval from the Vatican.
The organisation was established with the objective of serving:
- Poor and homeless individuals.
- Abandoned children.
- People suffering from serious illnesses.
- Terminally ill patients.
- Individuals affected by leprosy.
The organisation started in Kolkata and later expanded its activities across India and several countries worldwide.
Through homes, shelters and healthcare facilities, the Missionaries of Charity provided support to thousands of people facing difficult circumstances.
Major Areas of Humanitarian Work
Mother Teresa’s humanitarian activities focused on people who were often neglected by mainstream society.
Care for the Poor
She worked among economically disadvantaged communities and provided food, shelter and basic assistance.
Healthcare Support
The Missionaries of Charity established facilities to care for people suffering from serious diseases and those without access to medical support.
Support for Abandoned Children
The organisation created homes for orphaned and abandoned children, providing them care and protection.
Care for the Dying
In 1952, Mother Teresa established a hospice in Kolkata where terminally ill people could receive care and live their final days with dignity.
Leprosy Care
She also worked towards improving the lives of people affected by leprosy by establishing support centres and rehabilitation facilities.
Relief Activities
The Missionaries of Charity participated in humanitarian assistance during disasters, epidemics and refugee crises.
Mother Teresa and the Nobel Peace Prize
Mother Teresa was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 for her humanitarian work.
The Nobel Committee recognised her efforts in supporting people suffering from poverty, illness and social neglect. Her work was particularly acknowledged for promoting the dignity and value of every human being.
By this time, the Missionaries of Charity had expanded its activities beyond India and established a global presence.
Significance of Mother Teresa Birth Anniversary 2026
The 116th birth anniversary of Mother Teresa provides an opportunity to remember her contribution to humanitarian service and social welfare.
Her life highlights the importance of:
- Compassion towards vulnerable communities.
- Service without discrimination.
- Respect for human dignity.
- Support for people facing hardship.
Mother Teresa’s work brought global attention to issues such as poverty, homelessness and social exclusion. Her legacy continues through the Missionaries of Charity and various humanitarian initiatives inspired by her values.
The observance serves as a reminder that individual efforts rooted in compassion and service can create meaningful social change.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Mother Teresa’s birth anniversary
When is Mother Teresa’s birth anniversary observed?
Mother Teresa’s birth anniversary is observed on 26 August every year. In 2026, it marks her 116th birth anniversary.
Who was Mother Teresa?
Mother Teresa was a Catholic nun and humanitarian who devoted her life to serving the poor, sick, homeless and socially marginalised people.
When did Mother Teresa establish the Missionaries of Charity?
Mother Teresa founded the Missionaries of Charity in 1950 in Kolkata to serve people facing poverty, illness, homelessness and social exclusion.
When did Mother Teresa receive the Nobel Peace Prize?
Mother Teresa was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 for her humanitarian work and efforts to support vulnerable people.
When was Mother Teresa canonised?
Mother Teresa was canonised as a saint by Pope Francis on 4 September 2016 in Vatican City.
