The Missionaries of Charity, the congregation founded by St Teresa of Kolkata, has threatened to take legal action against those misusing its founder’s name, image, words and persona for fundraising and publicity. Source: UCA News.
“We have come to know that numerous organisations have been using Mother Teresa’s name and image without permission and engaging in fundraising activities,” Sr Michael Joseph, the current successor of St Teresa, said in a public statement on March 19.
The Missionaries of Charity in India and the saint’s followers are deeply pained by this abuse by individuals and groups who employ these methods to gain money and recognition on websites and social media platforms, the statement noted.
“Since this abuse has gone on so long and so far and in spite of many communications and warnings … we, as an organisation, have finally decided to take legal action against some organisations,” Sr Joseph said.
The misuse of St Teresa’s name or likeness in promotional or appeals for donations misleads the public and violates the principles the saintly nun embraced, it said.
Some organisations are staging lavish, media-covered ceremonies and functions in luxurious settings at which awards in St Teresa’s name are conferred on individuals and groups.
“Such extravagance runs totally counter to the spirit of poverty, humility, and simplicity as lived by Mother Teresa,” Sr Joseph’s statement said without naming any organisations.
The statement also quoted St Teresa’s will, which designates her successors, who lead the congregation, as the owners of her name and images. It also wanted those wanting to use them to seek the congregation’s permission.
It further clarified that the congregation itself does not go for any sort of fundraising, “as it was against her [St Teresa’s] principles and conviction.”
“It is a fact that Mother never did any fundraising and never wanted anyone to use her name or image for such a purpose, which is made very clear in her will,” retired Archbishop Thomas D’Souza of Kolkata said.
The statement does not address the situation that compelled the congregation to issue a letter threatening legal action. The 76-year-old congregation is not known to have taken legal action against anyone.
However, India has at least about 40 organisations and over 20 schools named after St Teresa.
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Congregation warns against misuse of St. Teresa’s name, persona (UCA News)
