Rare, very early ALS signed “M. Teresa mc,” one page both sides, 5.5 x 8.5, Missionaries of Charity letterhead, December 11, 1954. Letter to Mrs. Winfree. In full: “Many thanks for your kind letter. It is such a beautiful way of teaching the children to love God’s poor. He must be well pleased with you all. Nicholas & little Amar are the two children: both suffering with the T.B. Of the spine…I don’t think their birthdays [Nicholas and Amar] come on Christmas day, but maybe they will not see another Christmas on earth - so I would be very grateful if your dear children would make this one a very happy one.” In fine condition, with a horizontal mailing fold just touching the top of the signature, and a few creases and wrinkles.
In 1950, Mother Teresa founded the Missionaries of Charity in Calcutta, India. In 1954 she opened Nirmal Hriday, a house for terminally ill patients. Among those in her care were Nicholas and Amar, whose battles with tuberculosis neared an unpleasant end as the religious leader tried to give them a final, enjoyable Christmas. Handwritten letters from Mother Teresa—particularly such a poignant example from so early in her ministry—are virtually nonexistent! RRAuction COA.
