Mother Teresa's memory resides with prisoners in Rome

The Roman Penitentiary Institute held a seminar from the Regina Coeli prison that was once a Catholic church built in the mid-1600s. Today, this high-security prison complex that usually houses up 900 detainees has transformed into a place of peace, as Mother Teresa's message of acceptance and sharing are some of the themes discussed in this unique meeting.

SISTER CYRENNE
Missionaries of Charity 
'Mother Teresa has to be understood in a historical context. God calls, God called us all so that we can be present with the gift of His love. Mother Teresa was called by Him to do his will.�

Sister
Cyrenne and Sister Patrick from the Missionaries of Charity were among those in attendance. Their purpose is simple; to enliven the spirit of Mother Teresa to those in need. The initiative represents an opportunity for solidarity, participation, and sharing among the prisoners and the guests alike. 

SISTER PATRICK
Missionaries of Charity
'Today was a very beautiful day. We were really happy to come here today to be present to our brothers because we know very well that Mother (Teresa) is just now smiling upon each one of them. Mother would love to be here if she were alive; this would be her favorite place, to be here close, to those who suffer.â? 

During the seminar, several guest speakers and inmates shared some motivational gestures in the form of poetry, art, and music. Afterwards, a documentary on major aspects of the life of Mother Teresa of Calcutta and in-depth reflections on the universal values of solidarity and participation was shown. 

SISTER PATRICK
Missionaries of Charity
'God has touched humanity through her and the touch is a touch of love, which every heart is aching for and created for, to be loved. So it's just an opportunity to justify the reason for our existence.�

Mother Teresa of Calcutta extended that touch of compassion to all of the humanity, especially with the poorest of poor and the those serving time in prison. This is just one of the many events leading up to the canonization of  Mother Teresa on September 4.

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