“Each one of them is Jesus in disguise.”
- August 26, 1910 – September 5, 1997
- Albanian
- Catholic nun and saint
- Founded the Missionaries of Charity in Calcutta, India, and won the Nobel Peace Prize for her work in supporting the poor, sick, and orphans
Quote
“Each one of them is Jesus in disguise.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Mother Teresa’s belief in the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, regardless of their social or economic status. She saw the suffering and marginalized in society not just as poor or needy people but as Christ in human form, deserving of love and respect. In her view, serving the poorest and most desperate was not just an act of charity, but a spiritual calling, a way to serve God directly.
The historical context of this statement is rooted in Mother Teresa’s lifelong work with the poor in Calcutta (now Kolkata), where she founded the Missionaries of Charity. During her time, there was a significant gap between the rich and poor, and many of the poor lived in dire conditions. Her compassion for the downtrodden and her faith in God led her to see the face of Christ in each person she served.
In today’s world, this quote can still inspire acts of compassion, kindness, and empathy. It reminds us that everyone, regardless of their background, deserves our care and attention. For example, in modern society, people working in homeless shelters, orphanages, and hospitals can view their service as an act of love and respect, acknowledging the divinity in the people they help.
