Our Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce delegation is now holding meetings in Kolkata, the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. Beyond our discussions about foreign-direct investment and retention strategies, today was an opportunity for me to experience something very profound.
As I have previously written, Mississauga enjoys not only an economic connection to India but also a very enriching cultural connection as well. While in Kolkata, I had the opportunity to visit the Missionaries of Charity’s Mother House, a religious congregation established in 1950 by Mother Teresa, celebrated today as, Saint Mother Teresa of Kolkata (Calcutta).
The religious sisters, belonging to the Missionaries of Charity, care for: both abandoned and sick children; refugees; people living with AIDS; and the most vulnerable suffering from diseases and life conditions beyond their control.
As I walked through the Mother House, the heart and soul of this globally-respected congregation, I couldn’t help think about Mississauga and our compassionate, thoughtful residents and a recent visit I had to Merciful Redeemer Church last November. I gathered with the parishioners for a special mass in memory of Saint Mother Teresa.
Although, she has since departed this world for her place in heaven, the life and works of Saint Mother Teresa continues to inspire people in communities from around the world – from Mississauga to Kolkata – to be compassionate towards those in need.