Pope John Paul II and Mother Teresa of Calcutta: Spiritual Adoption of Priests

Mother Teresa visited Rome many times, and each time it was possible, she would visit the pope, who showed her particular reverence and affection. Mother would then talk with him about her projects, asking for guidance and approval. One of her projects, at the example of her patron saint, Therese of Lisieux, was the spiritual adoption of every Catholic priest by a convent of contemplative nuns. Mother Teresa believed that this would foster in the convents a deeper motivation for prayer and sacrifice for priests.

Pope John Paul II listened attentively and said with a smile, "I am a priest, too, Mother, will you have someone adopt me?" Very quick in her response, said and done, Mother Teresa turned to Sr. Nirmala, M.C., ... and asked her to adopt the pope!

~ Excerpt from Thirsting For God , Compiled by Fr. Angelo Scolozzi, M.C.III.O. ~

For more information about the Corpus Christi Movement founded by Blessed Teresa, and for priests who want to be spiritually adopted by religious sisters, click here.