Dear Sisters,

“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on. They will rest from their labor, for their deeds follow them.”— Revelation 14:13

With deep faith in the Lord and hope in the Resurrection, we remember with gratitude the life of our beloved Sr. Mary Marcelline, who was called to her eternal reward.

Sr. Mary Marcelline was born on 11th July 1935 in Moodbidri, Mangalore, to her loving parents, Late Basil D’Costa and Late Marceline Britto. She grew up in a large and blessed family with nine brothers and five sisters, among whom one was an adopted brother. Among the members of her family were those who dedicated their lives to God. In this deeply faith-filled family, she was nurtured in strong Christian values such as simplicity, generosity, and a deep love for God.

Responding to God’s call at a young age, she joined the Franciscan Servants of Mary on 6th November 1955. She entered the Postulancy on 7th November 1955, the Novitiate on 7th May 1956, and made her First Profession on 8th May 1958. Later, she consecrated herself fully to the Lord through her Final Profession on 15th May 1963. Her life in the congregation spanned 71 years of faithful and dedicated service.

Sr. Mary Marcelline devoted most of her life to health care and compassionate service. She began her ministry in the dispensary at Mathagondapalli in Tamil Nadu, caring for the sick and the poor with great dedication.

Her missionary spirit led her beyond the borders of India. She generously served in France, working in clinics and caring for the elderly in places such as Blois, Le Mans, and Rouen for fifteen years. Her mission also took her to Madagascar.

Later, she returned to India and continued her service in various ministries, including hospital work at Mathigiri, pharmacy service at Krishnagiri, and leadership responsibilities in the communities. She served as the Superior of Mathagondapalli and Hosur in Tamil Nadu, and Nainadu in Mangalore, guiding the communities with wisdom, responsibility, and commitment.She also had a special love and concern for the domestic workers who served in our institutions.

She always insisted that they be treated with dignity and given a just salary. If anyone spoke against them or treated them unfairly, she would stand by them and support them.

Sr. Mary Marcelline was a woman deeply rooted in prayer and faith. Her spiritual life was the foundation of her entire journey as a religious. Whenever she had to undergo any medical treatment or hospital operation, she always ensured that she was spiritually prepared. She would humbly request the Sacrament of Confession, receive the Anointing of the Sick — which she received nearly eight times — and partake in Holy Communion.

Even during times of illness and weakness, she longed for the presence of the Lord in the Eucharist and ensured that she received Holy Communion whenever possible. Her deep love for the sacraments reflected her unwavering trust in God and her readiness to surrender herself completely to His will. Through her faith and devotion, she gave a powerful witness of a life lived in constant union with the Lord.

Her life remains a beautiful testimony of faith, commitment, and wholehearted dedication to God. Though she lived a very simple and humble life, she had a deep sense of gratitude. Even the smallest act of kindness shown to her was remembered and appreciated. Her life reflected humility, faithfulness, and quiet dedication to God and His people.

On Christmas Eve, she fell ill, and from then on she was confined to her room with the assistance of a home nurse. The sisters lovingly took turns to spend time with her, and she always enjoyed their presence and companionship.

On the morning of April 4th, she experienced difficulty in breathing. Immediately, the sisters gathered around her bed, praying and accompanying her in those final moments. Peacefully and gently, she surrendered her soul to the Lord. It was truly a grace-filled and peaceful passing on Holy Saturday, a blessed moment to meet the Lord whom she had faithfully served throughout her life.

We thank God for the beautiful gift of her life, her vocation, and her long years of service to the Church, the congregation, and society. Her life stands as a witness to faithful commitment, missionary zeal, and compassionate service.

“Death gives us a challenge, to never waste our time. It reminds us to share our love with each other as much as possible” –Leo Buscaglia

United in prayer we remain,

Sisters of Nazareth Convent
Balmatta Mangaluru