Ten years after Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu was canonized by Pope Francis, Albanian-language manuscripts were brought into focus in Tirana as evidence of Saint Teresa’s strong connection to her origins and to Albanians.
The anniversary of canonization
On September 4, 2016, Pope Francis declared Mother Teresa a saint, the figure who became a global symbol of dedication to the poorest and most vulnerable.
At the canonization Mass, the Pope described her as a bearer of divine mercy and as testimony to God’s closeness to people in need.
September 5 and religious remembrance
On September 5, the Catholic Church celebrates Saint Mother Teresa, a date that also coincides with the day of her death.
This day is marked by the Missionaries of Charity with fasting and prayer, in the spirit of the mission she left behind.
Albanian-language manuscripts displayed in Tirana
As part of this anniversary, Saint Teresa’s manuscripts in the Albanian language were displayed in Tirana.
The documents were presented as evidence of her close emotional relationship with Albania and Albanians, an element that brings back into focus not only her religious figure, but also her national dimension.
The event at the Archives and the presence of missionaries
The event was organized at the General Directorate of Archives, with missionaries of the Mother Teresa Order also taking part.
According to information made public at the event, the order extends its activity to around 100 countries.
Remembering her figure in public life
The event also included representatives of politics and academic life, who remembered Saint Teresa through her sayings and the miracles recognized by the Church.
Beyond the commemorative ceremonies, the focus remained on the figure of the woman identified with service to the poor, the sick, and anyone in need of support and love.
The display of the Albanian-language manuscripts draws attention to a less ceremonial side of Saint Teresa: her personal connection to her language and her origins.
On an anniversary of symbolic weight, the documents made public serve as a concrete reminder of that connection.