MAHANOY CITY -- It was 20 years ago that Mother Teresa came to Schuylkill County.
This weekend the Blessed Teresa Catholic Church in Mahanoy City will remember the visit.
People in Mahanoy City still get goose bumps when they think about Mother Teresa on their streets. The woman who many people believe will become a saint visited on this date in 1995. And some say they can't believe it's been 20 years.
It was June 17, 1995 when Mother Teresa of Calcutta walked the streets in Mahanoy City.
Many people remember standing outside the church and hoping to catch a glimpse of the tiny woman.
"We parked way over and we tangled ourselves among the crowd and I know I started crying when I saw her," recalled Alice Moore.
"She put a medal in our hands and I still have that medal hanging above my bed," added Sylvia Burke.
Others remember the words that Mother Teresa said.
"'God does not ask us to do great things, only some things with great love,'" said Donna Dicasimirro, recalling the words of Mother Teresa.
Since that visit, a lot has changed, including the name of the church. It's now called Blessed Teresa of Calcutta.
"We're fortunate. When you think about it, not many parishes get to say our patron was here!"
It was two decades ago when Mother Teresa came to mass here and sat in the pews. Many members of the parish say they're honored the plaque is still there, but they like to leave the seat empty in memory of her.
"I do not think I am worthy (to sit there.)"
Now the parish will hold a mass this weekend and a celebration to remember Mother Teresa's visit, but many say they don't think it will be the last time they'll celebrate Blessed Teresa there.
"I swear she's going to be a saint real soon. My mouth to God's ear."
Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Church will hold an anniversary mass at noon on Sunday.
The reception will be at 1 p.m. in Mahanoy City.
