Teresa, Mother, Saint, 1910-1997
Niagara University
Niagara Falls (N.Y.)
On May 30, 1982, Mother Teresa of Calcutta delivered a message of love and support for the poor and the sick to graduates of Niagara University. She was granted an honorary doctorate before speaking to the graduating class. Thousands of people attended the graduation ceremonies conducted at the Niagara Falls Convention and Civic Center. In this WIVB-TV piece by reporter Emil Jablonski, Mother Teresa says, "The poor are a gift of God to us. They are great people. They are really lovable people." She said no one should ever feel unwanted. At a news conference she decried the fact that there are children dying of hunger while superpowers pour money into the arms race. She also spoke out against abortion. In a surprise introduction, Mother Teresa met Elizabeth Collins, a child adopted from her Calcutta mission. Elizabeth, now living in Tonawanda, got a warm embrace and told Mother Teresa she loved her. Her wish was that the founder of Missionaries of Charity could live forever. Thirty four years after her visit to Niagara University, Mother Teresa was canonized by the Catholic Church. On September 4, 2016, nineteen years after her death, she became known as Saint Teresa of Calcutta.
Jablonski, Emil (Reporter)
Mombrea, Sr., Mike (Photographer, Editor)
Buffalo & Erie County Public Library (publisher of digital)
WIVB (Television Station : Buffalo, N.Y.)
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