Catholic women have always played and continue to play a significant role in the Catholic Church. Who’s on your list?

The Top 3 Most Influential Catholic Women Since 1900, listed below:

1. ST. TERESA of CALCUTTA

Born Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu in 1910, dedicated her life to serving the poor and sick in Calcutta, India. She founded the Missionaries of Charity, a religious congregation, and through her selfless work, she became a symbol of compassion and humanitarianism. Mother Teresa received numerous awards, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. Her legacy continues to inspire people worldwide, and she was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 2016. Her feast day is September 5.

2. MOTHER ANGELICA

Born Rita Rizzo in 1923, was an American Roman Catholic nun and the founder of the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN). She entered religious life and later established the Our Lady of the Angels Monastery in Alabama. Mother Angelica’s bold and charismatic personality played a crucial role in the success of EWTN, which became a global Catholic media network. Despite health challenges, she continued to contribute to religious broadcasting until her passing in 2016. Mother Angelica is remembered for her devotion to faith and her impact on Catholic media.

3. ST. THERESE OF LISIEUX

Also known as Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face, was a French Carmelite nun born in 1873. She entered the Carmelite convent at a young age, embracing a life of simplicity, humility, and devotion. Commonly referred to as the “Little Flower”, she practiced the “Little Way,” emphasizing small acts of love and faithfulness in everyday life. Her autobiography, “The Story of a Soul,” became a spiritual classic. Thérèse’s approach to spirituality had a profound impact, and she was canonized a saint in 1925. Her life and teachings continue to inspire many in their spiritual journey. Pope Pius X called her “the greatest saint of modern times”. Her feast day is October 1.