Missionaries of Charity Warn Against Misuse of Mother Teresa’s Name, Announce Legal Action

Kolkata, March 20, 2026: The Missionaries of Charity have issued a strong appeal expressing concern over the unauthorised use of the name and image of Mother Teresa by various organisations for fundraising and promotional purposes.

In a circular addressed “to whomsoever this may concern,” the Superior General of the congregation stated that it had come to their attention that numerous groups were using Mother Teresa’s identity without permission while soliciting funds. The letter underscored that such practices are contrary to the principles and convictions upheld by the saint.

Reaffirming its identity, the congregation noted that the Missionaries of Charity is the only religious order founded by Mother Teresa, who dedicated her life to serving the poorest of the poor. It emphasised that she relied solely on Divine Providence and had explicitly forbidden the use of her name or image for fundraising activities, considering it inconsistent with her spiritual values. In keeping with this legacy, the congregation clarified that it does not conduct fundraising drives, but depends on voluntary offerings.

The circular further pointed out that, according to her last Will and Testament and public declarations, Mother Teresa entrusted all rights concerning her name, image and writings to her successors as Superior General. Any use of her identity without explicit permission, it stressed, is a violation of her expressed wishes.

Quoting a public statement made on October 14, 1984, the letter recalled her concern that even charitable initiatives carried out in her name could conflict with her religious beliefs and those of her Order. She had consistently maintained that the authority to permit or deny such use should remain exclusively with her successors.

The congregation also warned that the misuse of her name in promotional campaigns, donation appeals and public events risks misleading the faithful and the wider public. It expressed particular concern over instances where organisations host lavish, media-driven events and confer awards in her name—practices described as incompatible with the spirit of poverty, humility and simplicity that defined her life.

Expressing deep anguish, the Missionaries of Charity said that both the sisters and genuine admirers of Mother Teresa are pained by the continued misuse of her identity, especially through websites and social media platforms. Despite repeated warnings, the letter noted, such practices have persisted.

In response, the congregation has decided to initiate legal proceedings against certain organisations. It has called on all entities using Mother Teresa’s name in their titles without written authorisation, or employing her name and that of the Missionaries of Charity for promotional or fundraising purposes, to “immediately cease and desist” and, where necessary, rename their organisations.

The appeal concluded with a hope that these measures would honour the saint’s wishes and safeguard the integrity of her legacy, so that her life and message may continue to inspire humble and loving service.

Endorsing the appeal, the Archbishop of Kolkata urged wider dissemination of the circular and called on authorities and the faithful to respect the expressed will of St. Teresa of Calcutta, highlighting the importance of preserving the authenticity of her mission.