The archdiocese of Kolkata and Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity organized an interfaith prayer program on Sept.6, as part of her continuing centenary celebrations.

A succession of speakers from several religions and walks of life addressed the gathering at the Missionaries of Charity Sisubhavan (Children’s Home), Kolkata, with tributes to her.

“Just as a tree is known by its fruit, Mother Teresa’s work speaks to the world about her,” said Abdul Aziz, a Muslim.

Film Producer Biswambhar Newar, a Hindu, said that Mother Teresa inspires us to dispel darkness. “Even if we are but tiny candles, if all are lit it will be bright,” he said.

Diocesan Father Sunil Rosario, one of the program organizers, said Mother Teresa helped poor people irrespective of their caste, creed, color and race.

Debendra Kumar Jain, a lawyer who worked frequently with her, spoke about the way she loved all people and her philosophy of “live and let live.”

Newspaper editor Khawaja Hussain said that since the country’s independence in 1947, two people have made Indians hold their heads up high: Mahatma Gandhi and Mother Teresa.

Rita Das, an impoverished woman, recalled that she saw Mother Teresa when she was aged 10 or 12 but did not ask her for anything. Had she met the nun now, she would “certainly ask for her blessings.”

The program also featured a packed lunch for around 500 poor people and a musical tribute to Mother Teresa.

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