Former New York City Mayor Ed Koch passed away at age 88 on February 1, 2013. Over the years, we welcomed him to our stage fifteen times. Koch never refused an invitation to appear at 92Y and truly loved all that we stand for. He brought an unforgettable and fierce humor and honesty to our stage. He will be missed.

In this clip from 2008, Koch tells Budd Mishkin the story of an unexpected visitor after his stroke—Mother Teresa.

Sitting outside Gracie Mansion, Koch was told, “Mayor, a car just drove up and there are four nuns in the car…and one of them says she’s Mother Teresa.”

Shocked to see her, Koch asked, “Mother, what are you doing here?”

“Ed, I know you’re ill and you’re in my prayers. I came to see how you’re doing.”

Koch replied,”Mother, your prayers worked and I’m well. And now that you’re here, stay awhile with me.”

Koch told us, “She got out of the car, and I took her by the hand and we skipped up the path to the porch, three nuns behind us…it was just like a movie.”

Mother Teresa had only one request: “I need two parking permits.”