Eulogy of Sr. Maureen D’Souza 12 June 2026, Friday Lord, You have touched my heart and left me speechless; silence alone is enough for me to sing…

Eulogy of Sr. Maureen D’Souza
12 June 2026, Friday
Lord, You have touched my heart and left me speechless; silence alone is enough for me to sing Your praise.”

Today, with hearts filled with gratitude and reverence, we have come around the mortal remains of our beloved Sr. Maureen D’Souza, a faithful religious of our Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Tarbes, whose life quietly yet powerfully reflected the foundresses’ motto: God alone. Born in Mumbai, Maharashtra, and belonging to St. Ann’s Church, Pali Hill, Bandra, Sr. Maureen was nurtured in a loving and faith-filled family by her parents, Mr. Albert Ignatius D’Souza and Mrs. Louisa Margaret D’Souza. She was one among six siblings—three younger brothers, two elder sisters, and one younger sister—and was the second youngest among the girls.

At the age of 24 she responded generously to God’s call, and entered postulancy in 1963, bringing with her a foundation in shorthand, typing, and other academic pursuits. She began her novitiate in 1964, made her First Profession in 1966, and Perpetual Profession in 1972—offering her life fully to the service of God and His people. Her life of consecration was marked by deep prayer, silence, and unwavering commitment. She was a person who spoke little, yet her life spoke volumes. Long hours spent in silent prayer sustained her apostolate. Her strength came from her intimate union with God, and in all things, she sought only to fulfil His will.

Sr. Maureen’s journey of service from 1966 - 2000 included time spent in studies, training and plunging into apostolates. She served the congregation and the communities in different capacities worked mostly in Educational institutions like, St Francis Xavier Girls’ High School, Bangalore, Champion Reefs KGF, St Joseph’s School in Villa Parle, Mumbai as a teacher and Head Mistress. Throughout her teaching ministry, she was known for her patience, clarity, and discipline. Though firm, she was deeply compassionate, especially toward weaker students, fostering in them confidence and hope. From 2000–2022: she rendered her service in SFX School as an Administrator. Whatever she may have carried out in terms of responsibilities she did them all with remarkable dedication and integrity. Whether in the classroom, the office, or the community, she worked with precision and sincerity.

Sr Maureen was meticulous, conscientious, and transparent in all that was entrusted to her. Her work in administration and finance was carried out with great care and accountability. She never compromised on principles and remained steadfast in truth, guided by Gospel values. Her cheerful spirit, gentle humor, and wise counsel touched many lives. No one left her presence without a word of encouragement or insight. Even in challenging situations, she uplifted others with grace and faith. When age and health took a toll on her life she spent most of her time in prayer as a Member of the Prayer Team, Shanthi Nilaya community from 2022–2023. From 2023 till date she spent her life in Infirmary belonging to the same community. In her last days with all the physical, mental and emotional challenges that she was confronted with we noticed that after being anointed, Sr. Maureen seems to have experienced a profound encounter with the Lord.

As she gazed upon the crucifix, she gently raised her hand, clasped it tightly, and held onto it until her last breath. It was a deeply moving testimony of her lifelong love for Christ—clinging to Him to the very end. On this day, as we celebrate the Feast of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, we recognize this as a special grace—a final embrace of the One whom she had loved and served so faithfully. Those who knew her bear witness to her life. A school attender described her as a truly committed sister, while a staff member from SFX School remembered her as a beautiful soul whose dedication, love, and faith inspired all. Though her family could not be physically present, they remain united with us in prayer and thanksgiving. Sr. Maureen lived a life of simplicity, purity, and total dedication. May Jesus, Mary, and Joseph lead her into her heavenly home. May the angels and saints welcome her, and may perpetual light shine upon her.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon her.
May her soul rest in peace. Amen.