A concern about 'saving souls' might seem a bit strange to modern ears, especially coming from a woman who was a teacher and founder of schools for country girls. Putting Blessed Theresa and her words in context, however, we can see that there is a sentiment here that very timely or, perhaps, timeless.
The word 'salvation' comes from the Latin word salus, which means 'wellbeing.' The root meaning of salvation is to improve one's condition, to make whole and well. An educational movement in the European Catholic Church had begun a century before Theresa which was concerned about the salvation of poor children on all levels. These new schools introduced poor and working class children to faith in Jesus, yes, but also equipped them with knowledge and skills to succeed in a society that otherwise excluded them. Learning how to read, write, do basic math, and behave well in public were game-changing tools for kids from both innercity slums and country towns. Their adult chances at wellbeing had been increased exponentially.
If the social situation I described sounds oddly reminiscent of our time, it shouldn't surprise you that such Catholic schools (and many other schools modeled after them) still exist all over the world. This work continues, and School Sisters of Notre Dame continue to educate in the spirit of Blessed Theresa. Many other SSNDs work for the wellbeing of others in other settings, too - in ESL centers for adults, as dentists and lawyers, as social workers, and even at the UN! Their work is filled with everyday miracles of salvation.
