Kolkata (AsiaNews) – The canonisation of Mother Teresa is one step closer. Kolkata Catholics feel it and starting today, for two weeks, will pray and conduct celebrations that the Blessed may become a saint.

The Catholic Association of Bengal (CAB), the largest lay Catholic organisation in the archdiocese of Kolkata, has decided to make the year 2007 the “Year for the Canonisation of Mother Teresa.”

Celebrations will begin with the triduum and the novena leading up to September 5, tenth anniversary of Mother Teresa’s death, and will continue till September 23. The Blessed’s birthday on August 26 will also be celebrated.

“More than three years have passed since the title of ‘Blessed’ was conferred on our beloved Mother Teresa.  During her life Mother was a living saint to many.  There is no doubt that she is already a ‘saint’ to many more around the world,” CAB Chairman Eugene Gonsalves told AsiaNews

“Sainthood for Mother Teresa in a real sense may not be far away as many miracles are happening by her intercession. However, the time has come to identify and list these miracles so that the process of canonisation is completed as soon as possible,” he added.

“Starting with today’s Eucharistic function, the year for Mother Teresa’s canonisation begins. The entire year will include special prayer services and celebrations of the Holy Eucharist in different churches and institutions in the coming months.”

According to the organisers, this year’s events will included reflecting upon the Blessed’s simple but joyful life.

“We shall welcome everyone, poor and rich alike, as she did, without distinctions of faith, nationality or caste,” the CAB chairman said.

What is more, he expects the initiative to “bring thousands of people together” as “a sign of harmony, unity and devotion to Mother Teresa.”

On the margins of Japanese PM Shinzo Abe’s state visit to India, his  wife Akie today visited Mother Teresa's Home in Kolkata.

Photo: our correspondent in pilgrimage on Mother Teresa’s tomb.