Mother Teresa presents the incrediblestory of a woman whose unwavering faithbecame the motivation for her commit-ment to service and her ultimately lifelongmission. In this critically acclaimedpictorial biography, Golden Globe winnerOlivia Hussey illuminates the life story ofMother Teresa, who brought hope, love,and salvation to the poorest of the poor.A shrewd diplomat and an indomitableforce, this selfless missionary wasunwilling to accept what others deemedimpossible, fearlessly fighting for theunloved and the forgotten. Her goodworks transcended hardships andultimately earned her internationalacclaim, including the Nobel Peace prize.Filmed on location in Sri Lanka andRome, the humble triumphs of MotherTeresa portrayed in this poignant film,are an inspiration today. Mother Teresahas been praised and approved by theMissionaries of Charity – led by SisterNirmala, Mother Teresa’s successor.

The Discussion Guide draws out thethemes in the film, touching on importanttopics such as God’s call, faith in action,the Lord’s providence to accomplish Hispurpose, the power of prayer, and theimportance of humility. Each topic iscomplete with thought-provokingquestions, related scriptures, and helpfullessons. To supplement the lessons, clipsfrom the movie have been offered as avisual aid. These clips are available fordownload at www.foxfaith.com or maybe shown through a specially made DVDthat you can request at the same website.These clips and the guide, used in Sundayschool classes, other small groups, orby parents will provide you with anopportunity to initiate discussion.

For more information and additionalchurch resource material, go towww.foxfaith.com .

© TCFHE. All rights reserved.© 2005 Lux Vide S.p.A

Mother Teresa presents the incrediblestory of a woman whose unwavering faithbecame the motivation for her commit-ment to service and her ultimately lifelongmission. In this critically acclaimedpictorial biography, Golden Globe winnerOlivia Hussey illuminates the life story ofMother Teresa, who brought hope, loveand salvation to the poorest of the poor.A shrewd diplomat and an indomitableforce, this selfless missionary was unwillingto accept what others deemed impossible,fearlessly fighting for the unloved and theforgotten. Her good works transcendedhardships and ultimately earned herinternational acclaim, including the NobelPeace prize. The humble triumphs ofMother Teresa portrayed in this poignantfilm are an inspiration today.

Filmed on location in Sri Lanka and Rome,this inspiring and intriguing tale offers anemotional look at a strong-willed womanwhose selfless acts made her a modernday saint, recognized worldwide as asymbol of charity and goodwill. MotherTeresa has been praised and approved bythe Missionaries of Charity – led by SisterNirmala, Mother Teresa’s successor.

About the Discussion GuideMother Teresa is a family film for all ages.It provides an opportunity to discuss howmuch God can accomplish when a heartis willing to serve Him. Understanding thethemes of the film – God’s calling, faithin action, the Lord’s providence toaccomplish His purpose, the power ofprayer, and the importance of humility –is the reason these and other topics areaddressed in the movie and why we’vecreated this Discussion Guide. With thisbooklet, you, or any other leader canutilize the messages in Mother Teresaas a group discussion tool.

The lessons are supplemented with movieclips you’ve either received or downloadedonline. These clips were specifically selectedto help you set the tone and furnish thecontext for your discussion or Bible study.There are also suggested scriptures foryour group to study in-depth, and we’veprovided several discussion provokingquestions based on the different scenes.This guide is an easy-to-use way to kick-start interesting discussions within yoursmall group, and it works without any ofyour group having seen the film. However,it is recommended that you announce yourintentions of using the film clips ahead oftime. For example, the week before youintend to have a clip-oriented discussion,you might show the film trailer (includedwith the clips) to your group or congre-gation and let them know that you willincorporate it into your discussion thefollowing week (or the next time you meet).

About the Film

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Mother Teresa felt that her work withthe poor was commanded from God. ReadI John 3:16-17, Matthew 10:42 & 18:5.How do these verses support her belief?

Whatever successes Mother Teresaexperienced, she continued to exemplifyhumbleness. Read Micah 6:8, Matthew23:12, & I Peter 5:5-6. Based on theseverses, how did she follow these com-mands during her ministry? Explain.

Lesson To Learn:Mother Teresa felt that her work with thepoorest of poor was a directive from God.When she breaks her silence after hearingthe Lord’s voice in regards to her ministry,we learn some key elements of her beliefsystem. Her statement, “I am merely God’spencil. It is He who writes,” is key to thehumility that she exudes. Mother Teresais not glorifying in her accomplishments,but giving full credit to the Lord.

Her achievements are many: the develop-ment of an orphanage in the slums ofCalcutta, a center where the dying canreceive care, and the City of Peace, MotherTeresa provided food for thousands andestablished ministries that expandedthroughout India, Rome and other partsof the world. Certainly, she could havetaken pride in the accomplishments andsuccesses, but she did not. In everyinstance, she gave credit to God.

How wonderful it would be if we couldfollow Mother Teresa’s example. Shebelieved that “children belong to everyone”and consequently followed Jesus com-mandment to take care of them. With thepoor, she fed and clothed them, just aswe are instructed to do in the scriptures.

Mother Teresa is gone, but the needcontinues. Now is the time for all of us todo God’s work. Let us reach beyondourselves and search for opportunities tobless others with humility and love. AsMother Teresa said, “Everything we do isjust a drop in the ocean. But if we don’tdo it, that drop will be missing forever.”

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First of all, introduce the discussion bysaying something like this: “We’re goingto talk about several topics – God’s call,faith in action, the Lord’s providence toaccomplish his purpose, the power ofprayer and the importance of humility. Wehave some scenes from the movie MotherTeresa that we are going to watch and thenanalyze to see what we can learn fromthem.”

Next, give a brief overview of the film.Then, play the clip you have selected. Oncethe clip plays, then open the floor fordiscussion, using the questions andscriptures that are provided, or use someof your own. To finish, you can close eachsession by giving the brief “Lesson toLearn” provided at the end of the topic.

This will allow your members theopportunity to view the film themselves(rent or purchase) if they so desire.

Discussions:In an effort to help you reinforce thethemes and messages of Mother Teresa, wehave chosen clips from the film that youcan show to your group. These clips canbe downloaded online at www.foxfaith.comor shown through a specially made DVDthat you can request at the same website.These DVD clips are followed up withquestions and scripture found in theDiscussion Guide. The questions shoulddraw your group members into a conver-sation about what they have just seen. It isnot necessary to tackle these topics in arow, or all in one session. If you wouldprefer just to cover one or two, feel free.It is all up to you.

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As a result of Anna’s circle of prayerwarriors, Sister Amrita comes forwardand confesses her duplicity. Think of atime when you or someone else has prayedfervently and God has answered. Discusshow this affected your faith.

Lesson To Learn:The shocking news that Mother Teresaand the Sisters of Charity are accused ofchild trafficking is disheartening. As theold nun listens to the Archbishop and theofficial from the Indian government, sherealizes that the orphanage, and all ofGod’s work under their direction, willbe stopped if the missing child’s file isnot found.

After a thorough search and the deadlinequickly approaching, Mother Teresarealizes that prayer is her only solution tothe problem. As a result, she enlists thehelp of Anna’s prayer circle that encom-passes people all over the world, askingthem to “storm the gates of heaven.” Onceagain, God is faithful to His promises, “Ifyou believe, you will receive whatever youask in prayer.” (Matthew 21:22 NIV)Within a short time, Sister Amrita stepsforward, admitting that she has falsifiedthe documents and taken the missing file.

Certainly, there is power in prayer. Notonly does it need to be a part of our livesin time of crisis, but on a daily basis, too.The Bible promises that we can move the

heart of God through prayer. The scripturesalso encourage us to “pray withoutceasing.” When we do this, our commun-ication with God becomes as natural asbreathing. And, life becomes exciting aswe see the hand of God in our lives. If youhaven’t experienced this daily walk withHim, try it. You might try keeping a prayerjournal to record your thoughts andrequests. It’s an experience that will bringyou joy . . . and amazing answers.

HumilityClip: God’s ServantFor all that Mother Teresa accomplishedin her lifetime, she remained humbleto the end. At the point where sheinterviews with the Father Serrano andbreaks her vow of silence, her spirit ofhumility is evident.

Questions: From the beginning of Mother Teresa’sministry to the poorest of poor, we sensea spirit of courage blended with humility.Discuss the impact she has had over herlifetime, based on the film Mother Teresa.

In light of all she accomplished thoughher ministry, what statement during herinterview with Father Serrano bestexemplifies her humility and belief thather achievements were through the Lord?

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NOTE: Since some of your group membershave likely not seen the film, it is a goodidea to provide them with the context ofthe clip before watching it. This can befound in the italicized text that precedesthe questions and scripture referencesfor that particular clip.

Please keep in mind that you do not haveto get through all the clips in order tohave a successful discussion. Also, you donot need to sacrifice a good conversationto finish the scenes. As we mentionedabove, discussion times go best when youallow freedom but still provide the frame-work that point to lessons in God’s word.

God’s CallingClip: I ThirstMother Teresa serves as a nun inCalcutta, India where there is strifebetween the Hindus and Muslims. Asviolence escalates outside the convent,she opens the gates to help a woundedman. However, this decision results ina strong reprimand. As she leaves theconvent for a period of time, her truecalling comes into focus.

Questions:At the train station, Mother Teresa

comes face to face with a mass of humanity.What does she observe about the crowdsas she moves along the walkway? Howdoes this contrast with her life insidethe convent?

When the beggar reaches out to herand says, “I thirst,” how does this statementimpact her in regards to poverty and need?How does she respond?

Read John 4:10-14. Discuss what Christmeant about living water and never beingthirsty again? What can we do to help thosewho “thirst” in our community, bothphysically and spiritually?

Each of us is called to serve others insome capacity. Here are some verses thatillustrate God’s command that we reachout and serve those around us: John 13:34-35, Matthew 20:27-28, & Galatians 5:13.

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surely answer and provide the means toaccomplish His plan through you.

Power of PrayerClip: AccusationThroughout Mother Teresa’s ministry,she comes to God in prayer for decisions,needs, and solutions. As a result, thework she does is blessed exceedingly.However, the path is not withoutchallenges. When they occur, MotherTeresa calls to God for help. One suchtime is when the orphanage is falselyaccused of a wrongdoing that could stopher work with the children.

Questions: Father Van Exem and Mother Teresaare called before the Archbishop. Whatterrible accusation does he bring to theirattention? What is Mother Teresa’s reactionto the inspector’s news that a child ismissing? Why does she refuse to castsuspicion on any of her helpers?

After searching for the file of the missingchild, to no avail, what action does MotherTeresa take to help locate the information?What does this demonstrate about her beliefin the power of prayer?

Read the following that God gives usabout prayer: I John 5:14-15, Psalm 86:6-7, & Psalm 6:8-91. Discuss your thoughtsabout moving the heart of God throughprayer.

The director’s offer to provide a free passto anywhere in the world can be seen asGod’s helping hand extended to MotherTeresa. Upon her arrival at the Vatican,God intervenes again. Just when it seemsthat the paperwork for the City of Peacewill be delayed, a sudden phone call fromPope Paul VI ushers Mother Teresa intoa face-to-face meeting where he signs thenecessary papers.

From this true story we can see how ouromnipotent God has a plan and accom-plishes it through individuals who graspHis vision. Mother Teresa did it for thepoorest of poor in Calcutta. But, there isstill much to be done today, whether it isin our own hometown or abroad. Why not

seek out the purpose that God has for you.Is God calling you to serve? What are waysthat we can seek to do his will here in ourhometown? Are we making the most outof every opportunity to be a servant to thepeople around us? If you ask, He will

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Lesson To Learn:Life inside the convent has been sheltered,isolated from the poverty and politicalunrest within the city of Calcutta and Indiaitself. When conflicts arise between oppos-ing religious sects, the Catholic nunsmaintain a degree of separation in orderto preserve the perception of neutrality.

When Mother Teresa opens the gates ofthe convent to help a wounded Hindu, shelistens to her heart rather than convention.This is the first whisper of her calling fromGod to help those in need. Then, whenshe finds herself confronted with povertyat the train station, her whole being ismoved through the encounter.

The very words, “I thirst,” uttered by thedying beggar are symbolic of the mass ofhumanity in desperate need. It also

references the intense spiritual need ofthe people. As a result of this experience,Mother Teresa re-evaluates her work asa nun and asks God for answers. In herheart of hearts, she hears His call to servethose in need.

God has called each of us to serve Him.In our community and the world at large,there are hurting people. They may behungry, abused, or in need of clothing andhousing. It is our responsibility to answerthe call to love these individuals with ourtime and resources. Why not look for anavenue to make a difference in the nameof Jesus? The blessings that come fromreaching out to others cannot beoverestimated.

Faith in ActionClip: Courage Clip: MercyNot everyone is happy that Mother Teresais in the streets of Calcutta. The rich donot like the reputation that her workwith the poor brings to their city, andher actions and beliefs clash with theirculture and traditions. In the slums,those with opposing religious beliefs donot appre-ciate her being in their midst.Still, this determined woman movesforward with God’s work, dependent onHis providence and protection.

Questions:Mother Teresa wants to provide a place

for those who are dying on the streets toreceive care. What is the reaction of thelocals when she chooses a location thathad previously been a temple for agoddess? Why are they troubled by herpresence?

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Once Mother Teresa has exhaustedevery human means possible, whathappens that demonstrates God’sprovidence? Read Psalm 37:4 to seewhat God promises when we are closeto Him. What does it mean for us to“delight ourselves” in the Lord?

The trip to Rome provides a meetingwith a high official who advises MotherTeresa that the process will be slow. Thisprompts her to ask him for a meetingwith Pope Paul VI, which is met withlaughter. When the telephone rings, howis God’s providence illustrated onceagain?

What are some examples in the Biblewhere God provided for his people?Read the following verses and discussthe power and abilities of God:Nehemiah 6:15-16, Joshua 6:20-21,I Chronicles 11:4-5. What does theBible say about times of trouble?Read Psalm 46:1.

Lesson To Learn:Mother Teresa wants to build the City ofPeace for those who have lost everything.The purpose of the ministry is to providehope for the hopeless and to make lifebetter for the poor. It is a project thatcan only be accomplished through God’sblessing and provision.

Even though the project is faced withchallenges, Mother Teresa continues tobelieve that the Lord has given her thisvision of what she and the Sisters of Charitycan do for the needy. However, work stopswhen certain documents have not beenfiled with the City of Calcutta, documentsthat require approval and signatures fromthe Vatican in Rome.

Not being one to move slowly, MotherTeresa plans to travel to Rome, but thetickets are too expensive. She offers towork as an airline hostess; to clean or dowhatever she and the other nuns can doto obtain the tickets. But, to no avail. Allthe while, Mother Teresa behaves as aChristian. She doesn’t become angry withthe ticket agent, or badmouth the airlines.She remains at peace, knowing that if Godwants the City of Peace to be built, it willhappen.

Then, God intervenes with the coincidentalmeeting of her former student from theslums – a student who is now the directorof sales for the airline company.

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so bold in her mission and service forGod? Read Psalm 27:1. How do theseverses apply to your life and your faith?Why should we not fear opposition whenwe are doing God’s will?

Later, as the nuns minister to the dyingin the new center, opposition outside raisesits angry voice again. What does MotherTeresa say and demonstrate about herfaith that turns the opinion of the leader?Look up another promise from the Biblein Proverbs 16:7.

Lesson To Learn:On the streets of Calcutta, it is commonfor many to die alone and unloved whilepassersby remain untouched by thesuffering and loneliness of the poor.Mother Teresa is deeply troubled by theirplight and believes that God has given hera vision to build a center, a place that willprovide care and refuge for those in need.

The place she chooses has religioussignificance for the locals. Because of this,anger and rebellion arises. However,Mother Teresa has such a strong faith inGod’s plan, that she pays cash up front forthe site. In her heart, she believes in theLord’s promise “When a man’s ways arepleasing to the Lord, he makes even hisenemies live at peace with him.”(NIV)

God’s protection is evident when Atule,whom she courageously defended againstleg amputation years earlier, walks on thescene just as Mother Teresa is threatenedwith a knife. His presence scatters herenemies and provides her with safepassage. Certainly, God’s timing is perfect.

Later, when confronted with an angrycitizen who enters the center, MotherTeresa speaks boldly about her faith andpurpose. She sets aside fear and proceedsto demonstrate God’s love as she tends toa dying man. This example of love in actionchanged the heart of her enemy.

Today, we must ask ourselves what ouractions say to those around us andthroughout the world. Are we demonstrat-ing our faith through love? When there isa need are we the first to step up andserve, or do we shrink back because weare afraid of the sacrifice? We only haveto consider the Hurricane Katrina victimsor those in faraway countries who havebeen devastated because of situations outof their control, to realize that we are

Even though an angry crowd hasformed outside the building, Mother Teresabelieves that the Lord wants her to moveforward with the purchase. What actiondoes she take with the landowner thatshows her complete faith in God? Whatwould be your reaction in this samesituation?

As Mother Teresa starts to leave, anirate man pulls out a knife and threatensher. What occurs that provides protectionfor the nun? Discuss God’s promisesto watch over us in times of trouble.Read Psalm 91:3-7, Psalm 56:9 & 2Thessalonians 3:3. Why is Mother Teresa

commanded to make a difference. Thescriptures say, “…I tell you the truth,whatever you did for one of the least ofthese brothers of mine, you did for me.”Let’s obey Jesus Christ’s command to loveothers by putting our faith into actionwithout fear of what it may cost.

God’s ProvidenceClip: Perfect Timing Clip: Signed!Building the City of Peace is anothervision that Mother Teresa has for thepoorest of poor. But, the CalcuttaBuilding Commission stops the projectbecause of documents that haven’t

been filed – documents that will requirethe Pope’s signature without delay. Forthis to happen, it will take an act of Godto hurry the process and provide themeans to fly to Rome.

Questions:In order for the City of Peace building

project to move forward, Mother Teresamust fly to Rome. What is her responsewhen the ticket price is too high? Howdoes she show a servant’s attitudethroughout the process?

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