Embracing Darkness: A Theological and Psychological Case Study of Mother Teresa

Abstract

Considering the worldwide discussion of Mother Teresa's life that has arisen since the 2007 publication of her private writings in Come by My Light , this essay addresses the question of whether the writings reveal that she was clinically depressed or endured a spiritual dark night. Both psychological and theological analyses are presented. The impact of her father's poisoning on her early childhood, as well as on her last years, are discussed. Theological themes surrounding the meaning of the dark night as applied to Mother Teresa are offered for further nuance of her life and assessing her spiritual journey.