Agnes was a very ordinary young woman with a passion for God. She was born in Macedonia in 1910.

When she was 18 years old she became a Catholic nun and took the name of Teresa.

She became a teacher in a school for rich Catholic girls but saw that, outside the walls, there were thousands who were homeless and starving. Teresa believed that she had to leave her comfortable life and help these people by bringing them food, medical care and love. She learned the local language and trained as a nurse and, in 1950, founded the Missionaries of Charity.

Mother Teresa opened a small school in the slums of Calcutta. She taught the children to: "Meet each day with a smile, for a smile is the beginning of love".

She gave out medicines and food to the sick and hungry. She opened shelters for the poor and homeless and special homes for the sick and dying. Once, after having a meal on a plane, she asked other people for their leftovers so that she could give them to the poor. She started a children's home and a village for those who had leprosy whom others rejected - washing them and showing them love. She said, "We must do what Jesus did. We must reach out, touch them and make them welcome".

There was a time when she encountered opposition from some who were afraid that she would steal dying people away from the Hindu religion but, when she showed the same care to a dying Hindu priest, they were ready to accept her.

In 1997, Mother Teresa was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition for her work for poor people all over the world.

She had a deep belief in God, who always supplies, a willingness to accept unconditionally those whom she met and a life rooted in prayer. She lived a very simple life of devotion, having only two saris, a crucifix, sandals and a small prayer book. When she had nothing to give, she just gave comfort and showed love. "I see God in every human being. When I wash the wounds of one who has leprosy, I feel that I am nursing the Lord himself."

Before Mother Teresa died in 1997, she said, "Don't remember me! Remember the poor!"

If a miracle is confirmed in answer someone's prayer to Mother Teresa, it is possible that she may be made a saint of the Roman Catholic Church, making this one of the fastest sainthoods in history.

Her life is an inspiration to me and has had a great influence on millions of people. We have much to learn from her. Reading a book on Mother Teresa confirmed to me that she was truly a Great Christian.