After having validated the principle of renaming the Place de l’Abbé Pierre, Jean-Paul Fournier, mayor of Nîmes, will propose to name, at the next municipal council, this public space in homage to Mother Teresa.
Born in the Ottoman Empire at the beginning of the 20th century, this Albanian nun gave her life to others. By creating the Missionaries of Charity, she came to the aid of the excluded around the world. Hygiene, education, assistance to orphans, support for the sick… in many areas, she was able to give a little hope to those who were in the deepest poverty.
Until her death in 1997, she gave her life for those most in need. Her commitment earned her the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 and being beatified by Pope John Paul II, to whom she was close. Pope Francis made her a saint, canonizing her in 2016. The square located between Place aux Herbes and Place du Chapter, to the right of Notre Dame Saint Castor Cathedral, will now bear her name.
“Having received requests to pay tribute to this global figure of charitable work, I wanted to consult Monseigneur Brouwet, Bishop of Nîmes on this proposal, who validated the principle. The celebration of this new name could take place during the unveiling of the renovated facade of the cathedral, in conjunction with state services. Mother Teresa is universal. His action for the poorest is remarkable”declares Jean-Paul Fournier, mayor of Nîmes.
