Mother Teresa presents the incredible The Discussion Guide draws out the story of a woman whose unwavering faith themes in the film, touching on important became the motivation for her commit- topics such as God’s call, faith in action, ment to service and her ultimately lifelong the Lord’s providence to accomplish His mission. In this critically acclaimed purpose, the power of prayer, and the pictorial biography, Golden Globe winner importance of humility. Each topic is illuminates the life story of complete with thought-provoking Mother Teresa, who brought hope, , questions, related scriptures, and helpful and salvation to the poorest of the poor. lessons. To supplement the lessons, clips A shrewd diplomat and an indomitable from the movie have been offered as a force, this selfless was visual aid. These clips are available for unwilling to accept what others deemed download at www.foxfaith.com or may impossible, fearlessly fighting for the be shown through a specially made DVD unloved and the forgotten. Her good that you can request at the same website. works transcended hardships and These clips and the guide, used in Sunday ultimately earned her international school classes, other small groups, or acclaim, including the . by parents will provide you with an Filmed on location in Sri Lanka and opportunity to initiate discussion. Rome, the humble triumphs of Mother Teresa portrayed in this poignant film, For more information and additional are an inspiration today. Mother Teresa church resource material, go to has been praised and approved by the www.foxfaith.com . of Charity – led by Sister Nirmala, Mother Teresa’s successor.

© TCFHE. All rights reserved. © 2005 Lux Vide S.p.A About the Discussion Guide Mother Teresa felt that her work with About the Film Mother Teresa is a family film for all ages. the poor was commanded from God. Read It provides an opportunity to discuss how I John 3:16-17, Matthew 10:42 & 18:5. Mother Teresa presents the incredible much God can accomplish when a heart How do these verses support her belief? story of a woman whose unwavering faith is willing to serve Him. Understanding the became the motivation for her commit- themes of the film – God’s calling, faith Whatever successes Mother Teresa ment to service and her ultimately lifelong in action, the Lord’s providence to experienced, she continued to exemplify mission. In this critically acclaimed accomplish His purpose, the power of humbleness. Read 6:8, Matthew pictorial biography, Golden Globe winner prayer, and the importance of humility – 23:12, & I Peter 5:5-6. Based on these Olivia Hussey illuminates the life story of is the reason these and other topics are verses, how did she follow these com- Mother Teresa, who brought hope, love addressed in the movie and why we’ve mands during her ministry? Explain. and salvation to the poorest of the poor. created this Discussion Guide. With this A shrewd diplomat and an indomitable booklet, you, or any other leader can force, this selfless missionary was unwilling Lesson To Learn: utilize the messages in Mother Teresa Mother Teresa felt that her work with the to accept what others deemed impossible, as a group discussion tool. poorest of poor was a directive from God. fearlessly fighting for the unloved and the When she breaks her silence after hearing forgotten. Her good works transcended The lessons are supplemented with movie the Lord’s voice in regards to her ministry, hardships and ultimately earned her clips you’ve either received or downloaded we learn some key elements of her belief international acclaim, including the Nobel online. These clips were specifically selected system. Her statement, “I am merely God’s Peace prize. The humble triumphs of to help you set the tone and furnish the pencil. It is He who writes,” is key to the Mother Teresa portrayed in this poignant context for your discussion or Bible study. humility that she exudes. Mother Teresa How wonderful it would be if we could film are an inspiration today. There are also suggested scriptures for is not glorifying in her accomplishments, follow Mother Teresa’s example. She your group to study in-depth, and we’ve but giving full credit to the Lord. believed that “children belong to everyone” Filmed on location in Sri Lanka and Rome, provided several discussion provoking and consequently followed Jesus com- this inspiring and intriguing tale offers an questions based on the different scenes. Her achievements are many: the develop- mandment to take care of them. With the emotional look at a strong-willed woman This guide is an easy-to-use way to kick- ment of an in the slums of poor, she fed and clothed them, just as whose selfless acts made her a modern start interesting discussions within your Calcutta, a center where the dying can we are instructed to do in the scriptures. day , recognized worldwide as a small group, and it works without any of receive care, and the City of Peace, Mother symbol of charity and goodwill. Mother your group having seen the film. However, Teresa provided food for thousands and Mother Teresa is gone, but the need Teresa has been praised and approved by it is recommended that you announce your established ministries that expanded continues. Now is the time for all of us to the – led by Sister intentions of using the film clips ahead of throughout , Rome and other parts do God’s work. Let us reach beyond Nirmala, Mother Teresa’s successor. time. For example, the week before you of the world. Certainly, she could have ourselves and search for opportunities to intend to have a clip-oriented discussion, taken pride in the accomplishments and bless others with humility and love. As you might show the film trailer (included successes, but she did not. In every Mother Teresa said, “Everything we do is with the clips) to your group or congre- instance, she gave credit to God. just a drop in the ocean. But if we don’t gation and let them know that you will do it, that drop will be missing forever.” incorporate it into your discussion the following week (or the next time you meet).

1 10 As a result of Anna’s circle of prayer heart of God through prayer. The scriptures This will allow your members the First of all, introduce the discussion by warriors, Sister Amrita comes forward also encourage us to “pray without opportunity to view the film themselves saying something like this: “We’re going and confesses her duplicity. Think of a ceasing.” When we do this, our commun- (rent or purchase) if they so desire. to talk about several topics – God’s call, time when you or someone else has prayed ication with God becomes as natural as faith in action, the Lord’s providence to fervently and God has answered. Discuss breathing. And, life becomes exciting as Discussions: accomplish his purpose, the power of how this affected your faith. we see the hand of God in our lives. If you In an effort to help you reinforce the prayer and the importance of humility. We haven’t experienced this daily walk with themes and messages of Mother Teresa, we have some scenes from the movie Mother Lesson To Learn: Him, try it. You might try keeping a prayer have chosen clips from the film that you Teresa that we are going to watch and then The shocking news that Mother Teresa journal to record your thoughts and can show to your group. These clips can analyze to see what we can learn from and the Sisters of Charity are accused of requests. It’s an experience that will bring be downloaded online at www.foxfaith.com them.” child trafficking is disheartening. As the you joy . . . and amazing answers. or shown through a specially made DVD old listens to the Archbishop and the that you can request at the same website. Next, give a brief overview of the film. official from the Indian government, she These DVD clips are followed up with Then, play the clip you have selected. Once realizes that the orphanage, and all of Humility questions and scripture found in the the clip plays, then open the floor for God’s work under their direction, will Discussion Guide. The questions should discussion, using the questions and be stopped if the missing child’s file is Clip: God’s Servant draw your group members into a conver- scriptures that are provided, or use some not found. For all that Mother Teresa accomplished sation about what they have just seen. It is of your own. To finish, you can close each in her lifetime, she remained humble not necessary to tackle these topics in a session by giving the brief “Lesson to After a thorough search and the deadline to the end. At the point where she row, or all in one session. If you would Learn” provided at the end of the topic. quickly approaching, Mother Teresa interviews with the Father Serrano and prefer just to cover one or two, feel free. realizes that prayer is her only solution to breaks her vow of silence, her spirit of It is all up to you. the problem. As a result, she enlists the humility is evident. help of Anna’s prayer circle that encom- passes people all over the world, asking Questions: them to “storm the gates of heaven.” Once From the beginning of Mother Teresa’s again, God is faithful to His promises, “If ministry to the poorest of poor, we sense you believe, you will receive whatever you a spirit of courage blended with humility. ask in prayer.” (Matthew 21:22 NIV) Discuss the impact she has had over her Within a short time, Sister Amrita steps lifetime, based on the film Mother Teresa. forward, admitting that she has falsified the documents and taken the missing file. In light of all she accomplished though her ministry, what statement during her Certainly, there is power in prayer. Not interview with Father Serrano best only does it need to be a part of our lives exemplifies her humility and belief that in time of crisis, but on a daily basis, too. her achievements were through the Lord? The Bible promises that we can move the

9 2 The director’s offer to provide a free pass surely answer and provide the means to God’s Calling to anywhere in the world can be seen as accomplish His plan through you. God’s helping hand extended to Mother Clip: I Thirst Mother Teresa serves as a nun in Teresa. Upon her arrival at the Vatican, Calcutta, India where there is strife God intervenes again. Just when it seems Power of Prayer between the Hindus and Muslims. As that the paperwork for the City of Peace violence escalates outside the convent, will be delayed, a sudden phone call from Clip: Accusation Throughout Mother Teresa’s ministry, she opens the gates to help a wounded Paul VI ushers Mother Teresa into she comes to God in prayer for decisions, man. However, this decision results in a face-to-face meeting where he signs the needs, and solutions. As a result, the a strong reprimand. As she leaves the necessary papers. work she does is blessed exceedingly. convent for a period of time, her true However, the path is not without calling comes into focus. From this true story we can see how our omnipotent God has a plan and accom- challenges. When they occur, Mother plishes it through individuals who grasp Teresa calls to God for help. One such Questions: At the train station, Mother Teresa His vision. Mother Teresa did it for the time is when the orphanage is falsely comes face to face with a mass of humanity. poorest of poor in Calcutta. But, there is accused of a wrongdoing that could stop What does she observe about the crowds still much to be done today, whether it is her work with the children. as she moves along the walkway? How in our own hometown or abroad. Why not NOTE: Since some of your group members does this contrast with her life inside Questions: Father Van Exem and Mother Teresa have likely not seen the film, it is a good the convent? idea to provide them with the context of are called before the Archbishop. What terrible accusation does he bring to their the clip before watching it. This can be When the beggar reaches out to her attention? What is Mother Teresa’s reaction found in the italicized text that precedes and says, “I thirst,” how does this statement to the inspector’s news that a child is the questions and scripture references impact her in regards to poverty and need? missing? Why does she refuse to cast for that particular clip. How does she respond? suspicion on any of her helpers? Please keep in mind that you do not have Read John 4:10-14. Discuss what Christ to get through all the clips in order to After searching for the file of the missing meant about living water and never being have a successful discussion. Also, you do child, to no avail, what action does Mother thirsty again? What can we do to help those not need to sacrifice a good conversation Teresa take to help locate the information? who “thirst” in our community, both to finish the scenes. As we mentioned What does this demonstrate about her belief physically and spiritually? above, discussion times go best when you seek out the purpose that God has for you. in the power of prayer? allow freedom but still provide the frame- Each of us is called to serve others in Is God calling you to serve? What are ways work that point to lessons in God’s word. Read the following that God gives us some capacity. Here are some verses that that we can seek to do his will here in our about prayer: illustrate God’s command that we reach hometown? Are we making the most out I John 5:14-15, Psalm 86:6- 7, & Psalm 6:8-91. Discuss your thoughts out and serve those around us: John 13:34- of every opportunity to be a servant to the about moving the heart of God through 35, Matthew 20:27-28, & Galatians 5:13. people around us? If you ask, He will prayer.

3 8 Once Mother Teresa has exhausted Even though the project is faced with Lesson To Learn: God has called each of us to serve Him. every human means possible, what challenges, Mother Teresa continues to Life inside the convent has been sheltered, In our community and the world at large, happens that demonstrates God’s believe that the Lord has given her this isolated from the poverty and political there are hurting people. They may be providence? Read Psalm 37:4 to see vision of what she and the Sisters of Charity unrest within the city of Calcutta and India hungry, abused, or in need of clothing and what God promises when we are close can do for the needy. However, work stops itself. When conflicts arise between oppos- housing. It is our responsibility to answer to Him. What does it mean for us to when certain documents have not been ing religious sects, the Catholic the call to love these individuals with our “delight ourselves” in the Lord? filed with the City of Calcutta, documents maintain a degree of separation in order time and resources. Why not look for an that require approval and signatures from to preserve the perception of neutrality. avenue to make a difference in the name The trip to Rome provides a meeting the Vatican in Rome. of Jesus? The blessings that come from with a high official who advises Mother When Mother Teresa opens the gates of reaching out to others cannot be Teresa that the process will be slow. This the convent to help a wounded Hindu, she overestimated. prompts her to ask him for a meeting listens to her heart rather than convention. with Pope Paul VI, which is met with This is the first whisper of her calling from laughter. When the telephone rings, how God to help those in need. Then, when Faith in Action is God’s providence illustrated once she finds herself confronted with poverty again? at the train station, her whole being is Clip: Courage Clip: Mercy moved through the encounter. Not everyone is happy that Mother Teresa What are some examples in the Bible is in the streets of Calcutta. The rich do where God provided for his people? The very words, “I thirst,” uttered by the not like the reputation that her work Read the following verses and discuss dying beggar are symbolic of the mass of with the poor brings to their city, and the power and abilities of God: humanity in desperate need. It also her actions and beliefs clash with their Nehemiah 6:15-16, Joshua 6:20-21, Not being one to move slowly, Mother culture and traditions. In the slums, I Chronicles 11:4-5. What does the Teresa plans to travel to Rome, but the those with opposing religious beliefs do Bible say about times of trouble? tickets are too expensive. She offers to not appre-ciate her being in their midst. Read Psalm 46:1. work as an airline hostess; to clean or do Still, this determined woman moves whatever she and the other nuns can do forward with God’s work, dependent on Lesson To Learn: to obtain the tickets. But, to no avail. All His providence and protection. Mother Teresa wants to build the City of the while, Mother Teresa behaves as a Peace for those who have lost everything. Christian. She doesn’t become angry with Questions: The purpose of the ministry is to provide the ticket agent, or badmouth the airlines. Mother Teresa wants to provide a place hope for the hopeless and to make life She remains at peace, knowing that if God references the intense spiritual need of for those who are dying on the streets to better for the poor. It is a project that wants the City of Peace to be built, it will the people. As a result of this experience, receive care. What is the reaction of the can only be accomplished through God’s happen. Mother Teresa re-evaluates her work as locals when she chooses a location that blessing and provision. a nun and asks God for answers. In her had previously been a temple for a Then, God intervenes with the coincidental heart of hearts, she hears His call to serve goddess? Why are they troubled by her meeting of her former student from the those in need. presence? slums – a student who is now the director of sales for the airline company.

7 4 so bold in her mission and service for The place she chooses has religious commanded to make a difference. The God? Read Psalm 27:1. How do these significance for the locals. Because of this, scriptures say, “…I tell you the truth, verses apply to your life and your faith? anger and rebellion arises. However, whatever you did for one of the least of Why should we not fear opposition when Mother Teresa has such a strong faith in these brothers of mine, you did for me.” we are doing God’s will? God’s plan, that she pays cash up front for Let’s obey Jesus Christ’s command to love the site. In her heart, she believes in the others by putting our faith into action Later, as the nuns minister to the dying Lord’s promise “When a man’s ways are without fear of what it may cost. in the new center, opposition outside raises pleasing to the Lord, he makes even his its angry voice again. What does Mother enemies live at peace with him.”(NIV) Even though an angry crowd has Teresa say and demonstrate about her God’s Providence formed outside the building, Mother Teresa faith that turns the opinion of the leader? God’s protection is evident when Atule, believes that the Lord wants her to move Look up another promise from the Bible whom she courageously defended against Clip: Perfect Timing Clip: Signed! forward with the purchase. What action in Proverbs 16:7. leg amputation years earlier, walks on the Building the City of Peace is another does she take with the landowner that scene just as Mother Teresa is threatened vision that Mother Teresa has for the shows her complete faith in God? What Lesson To Learn: with a knife. His presence scatters her poorest of poor. But, the Calcutta would be your reaction in this same On the streets of Calcutta, it is common enemies and provides her with safe Building Commission stops the project situation? for many to die alone and unloved while passage. Certainly, God’s timing is perfect. because of documents that haven’t passersby remain untouched by the As Mother Teresa starts to leave, an suffering and loneliness of the poor. Later, when confronted with an angry irate man pulls out a knife and threatens Mother Teresa is deeply troubled by their citizen who enters the center, Mother her. What occurs that provides protection plight and believes that God has given her Teresa speaks boldly about her faith and for the nun? Discuss God’s promises a vision to build a center, a place that will purpose. She sets aside fear and proceeds to watch over us in times of trouble. provide care and refuge for those in need. to demonstrate God’s love as she tends to Read Psalm 91:3-7, Psalm 56:9 & 2 a dying man. This example of love in action Thessalonians 3:3. Why is Mother Teresa changed the heart of her enemy.

Today, we must ask ourselves what our been filed – documents that will require actions say to those around us and the Pope’s signature without delay. For throughout the world. Are we demonstrat- this to happen, it will take an act of God ing our faith through love? When there is to hurry the process and provide the a need are we the first to step up and means to fly to Rome. serve, or do we shrink back because we are afraid of the sacrifice? We only have Questions: to consider the Hurricane Katrina victims In order for the City of Peace building or those in faraway countries who have project to move forward, Mother Teresa been devastated because of situations out must fly to Rome. What is her response of their control, to realize that we are when the ticket price is too high? How does she show a servant’s attitude throughout the process? 5 6