Mother Teresa

September 3, 2007
Mother Teresa was one of the most revered people of the 20th century, so it is no surprise that 10 years after her death people still want to know what impelled this poor, humble Albanian woman to give her life to God so completely. Kolodiejchuk, a Catholic priest and friend of Mother Teresas who is actively promoting her cause for sainthood, assembles a startling and impressive collection of her writings, most of which have never been seen by the public. Two themes especially shine through in Mother Teresas letters, namely, her absolute conviction that she was doing Gods will, and a deep and surprising chasm of darkness within her that some would call the dark night of the soul. It is also apparent that this saintly woman was no pushover. In her quest to found the Missionaries of Charity, she aggressively pursued approval from her bishop, fully confident that God desired this work to be done. Kolodiejchuk is at times a bit presumptive in his interpretations of Teresas letters, as no one can say for certain what was in her mind and heart at all times. What we do know, in part thanks to this volume, is that Mother Teresas vocation to care for the poorest of the poor will continue to inspire people for generations.

October 1, 2007
Mother Teresa was one of the most universally beloved figures of the twentieth century. Although much has been written by and about her, this collection of previously unpublished letters, journal entries, and reflections will both surprise and enlighten her many admirers. Compiled, arranged, and commented upon by her good friend and sainthood champion Father Brian Kolodiejchuk, these personal musings provide an intimate glimpse into the private soul of a public figure. It will come as a shock and, perhaps, a relief to some that Mother Teresa was plagued by doubts and suffered her own version of a crisis of faith. That she was able to continue with her compassionate mission in spite of her torturous dark night of the soul serves as a powerful testament to both her essential humanity and her ultimate spirituality. Demand will be high for this inspirational chronicle.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2007, American Library Association.)