Blessed Maria Teresa of St. Joseph, born Anna Maria Tauscher van den Bosch on June 19, 1855, in Sandow, East Prussia (now Poland), was the eldest daughter of Hermann Tauscher, a Lutheran pastor, and his wife, Pauline. Raised in a deeply religious environment, Anna Maria was profoundly influenced by her mother's charitable works, often accompanying her in aiding the poor, which instilled in her a deep compassion for the less fortunate.

In 1888, after a profound spiritual journey, Anna Maria converted to Roman Catholicism, a decision that led to her dismissal from her position as Director of Nursing at a mental hospital in Cologne and estrangement from her Protestant family. Undeterred, she felt a strong calling to serve the marginalized, particularly neglected children and the poor. This calling culminated in the founding of the Carmelite Sisters of the Divine Heart of Jesus on July 2, 1891, in Berlin, where she adopted the religious name Maria Teresa of St. Joseph. The congregation combined contemplative Carmelite spirituality with active apostolic service, focusing on caring for orphans, the elderly, and the homeless.

Despite numerous challenges, including initial resistance from ecclesiastical authorities and the need to relocate the congregation multiple times, Mother Maria Teresa's unwavering faith and dedication led to the expansion of her order across Europe and into North America. She established numerous homes and institutions dedicated to serving those in need. Her tireless work continued until her death on September 20, 1938, in Sittard, Netherlands.