“Compassion in bronze” is what this Busto di Madre Teresa di Calcutta represents. Here, in Milan, stands a tribute to a woman who embodied love and service. This statue immortalizes Mother Teresa. It serves as a constant reminder of her selfless dedication to the poorest of the poor.
The Busto di Madre Teresa di Calcutta, sculpted by Silvio Romano, was inaugurated on May 13, 2006. It commemorates a figure whose impact resonated globally. Mother Teresa, an Albanian-Indian Roman Catholic nun and missionary, founded the Missionaries of Charity. This congregation grew to include over 4,500 nuns active in 133 countries by 2012.
Mother Teresa’s journey began in Skopje. At 18, she joined the Sisters of Loreto in Ireland. Soon after, she moved to India. There, she took her vows and established her order. The Missionaries of Charity ran schools, homes, and hospitals for the impoverished. They served people regardless of their religion.
In 1973, she received the Templeton Prize. This award recognized her progress toward research and discoveries about spiritual realities. In 1979, she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Mother Teresa dedicated her life to serving the impoverished and suffering. She carried out her mission for over 50 years.
Her order provided care for those dying of HIV/AIDS, leprosy, and tuberculosis. They operated soup kitchens and mobile clinics. They offered counseling programs for children and families. Additionally, they established orphanages and schools.
The Busto di Madre Teresa di Calcutta reminds us of her visits to Milan. In October 1973, she came at the invitation of PIME missionaries. She spoke to thousands of young people. She shared that serving the poor was a great privilege. In April 1977, she spoke at San Siro stadium. She defended the lives of the unborn. She emphasized caring for every life abandoned on the streets. In May 1983, she attended the National Eucharistic Congress. She highlighted the link between the Eucharist and charity.
Mother Teresa was canonized as Saint Teresa of Calcutta on September 4, 2016. Her feast day is celebrated on September 5, the anniversary of her death. The statue before us captures her spirit. It immortalizes her devotion. It inspires us to embrace compassion.
Consider the simple sari she wore. Recall her unwavering gaze. Feel the weight of her life’s work. The Busto di Madre Teresa di Calcutta invites reflection. It urges action. It calls for each of us to find our own way to serve. Let us carry her message of love. Let us bring hope to those in need.
The monument serves as a reminder that even a single life dedicated to compassion can transform the world. It is a testament to her enduring legacy. This legacy continues to inspire millions across the globe. As we stand before this bust, let us remember the words and actions of Mother Teresa. Let us strive to embody her spirit of selfless service in our own lives.