Sr. Lucy D’Souza MSI, 14.12.1963 – 01.03.2026

Early Life and Vocation:

Sr. Lucy was born on 14 December 1963 in Nandanwadi, in the Diocese of Bombay, India,

to Francis and Santan D’Souza. Baptized on 29 December 1963, she was raised in a loving

Christian family with four brothers and one sister. From her early years, she nurtured a deep

faith that gradually matured into a generous response to God’s call.

After completing her Bachelor of Arts degree, she entered the Missionary Sisters of the

Immaculate on 22 August 1986 in Mumbai. She received her formation in Andhra Pradesh

and made her First Profession on 16 July 1990 in Vijayawada.

During her juniorate, she earned a Master’s degree in Social Work from Andhra Loyola

College, Vijayawada, and later pursued theological studies in Goa. She served in various

communities in India, including Goa, Suryapet, Sahibabad, and Dornakal. On 9 June 1996,

she made her Perpetual Vows in Vasai, Bombay, offering her life completely to God and to

the mission of the Church.

Mission in Papua New Guinea

On 19 April 2001, Sr. Lucy began her missionary journey in Papua New Guinea — a

country that became her second home. For 25 years, she faithfully served the Church and the people of this nation with love and dedication.

From 2001 to 2010, she ministered in Vanimo as Local Superior and served for ten years as

Diocesan Family Life Coordinator. With patience, wisdom, and compassion, she

accompanied couples, families, and young people, firmly believing in the sacredness and

dignity of family life. Her gentle presence, counselling ministry, and gift for music drew

many closers to the Lord.

In 2011, she was appointed Administrator of the PNG Delegation of the Congregation, a

responsibility she carried until 2020. She guided the sisters with prayerful discernment,

simplicity, and strength. During this time, she also cared for hostel girls in Port Moresby,

offering them motherly support and guidance.

From 1 May 2020, Sr. Lucy served as National Family Life Coordinator at the Catholic

Bishops Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands in Port Moresby. Through

this role, her ministry extended across the nation, supporting clergy, religious, and lay

faithful. Her tireless efforts to promote the dignity of marriage and family life remain a

lasting contribution to the Church in Papua New Guinea.

A Heart for Mission:

Sr. Lucy was known for her warmth, hospitality, and motherly care. She made everyone feel

welcomed and valued. Her missionary zeal was vibrant and steadfast, and she gave herself

wholeheartedly to the people she served.

Even while living with diabetes and declining health, she continued her ministry with

remarkable strength and trust in God. She would often reassure others, saying, “Pray, and

God will take care of us.” Her joy, resilience, and unwavering faith inspired many.

She had a special love for the poor, the sick, and those in need. Always available and always smiling, she lived the Gospel not only in words but through generous action.

During her illness, she chose to remain in Papua New Guinea rather than return to India for

advanced medical care, a decision that reflected her deep attachment to her mission and the people she loved.

A Lasting Legacy:

Sr. Lucy’s sudden passing leaves a profound sense of loss. Yet we remain grateful for the

gift of her vocation and for her 25 years of faithful missionary service in Papua New Guinea.

Her life was a testament to selfless love, courageous commitment, and joyful surrender to

God’s will. For her, mission was not merely an assignment — it was her identity.

As we commend her soul to the loving mercy of the Father, we trust in the promise of Christ:

“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Master.”

We give thanks for her witness, leadership, compassion, and unwavering love for God and

His people. May she continue to intercede for the Church in Papua New Guinea, for the

Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate, and for all the families and communities she served so faithfully.