(Sept.07,2010) A Mother Teresa postal stamp went on sale this week in the United
States, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of her birthday. On Sunday, the 13th
anniversary of the death of Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, the stamp was unveiled in
the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.
Although groups such as the Freedom From Religion Foundation tried to oppose the initiative,
over 146,000 people signed a petition organized by CatholicVote.org Civic Action,
in favour of honouring the nun. Brian Burch, president of the action group, stated,
"We thank the United States Postal Service for honouring the 100th anniversary of
Mother Teresa's birth with this beautiful stamp." He said "Our petition in support
of the stamp struck a chord because Mother Teresa continues to serve as an inspiration
for people today." We call on Americans to honour the life of this saintly and heroic
woman by purchasing Mother Teresa stamps this week," he added. The stamp features
a portrait of Mother Teresa painted by Thomas Blackshear II of Colorado Springs, Colorado.
It can be bought in blocks of 4, 10 and 20.