Sister Thérèse Marcil

“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus.”  Col. 3, 17

March 10, 2012, Sister Thérèse Marcil,
in religion Marie-Raymond-du-Rosaire,
                      went home to God                            

 She was 89 years old and had been professed for 65 years.

Born in Chambly, Quebec, she was the 2nd of 5 children of Rosario Marcil and Lucrèce Raymond.

After having completed her studies at Pensionnat Ste-Émélie, Thérèse remained at home for 3 years, helping her mother and participating in a variety of activities: Jeunesse Indépendante Catholique (Young Independent Catholics), study and sewing circles. Her vocation had matured, she was now ready to follow the movement of the Spirit, and so at the age of 21 she entered the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary.

Sister Raymond–du-Rosaire made a career of teaching. She dedicated 42 years to young people: 23 years in the public sector and 18 years in the private sector.

“After having taught almost every subject, I became a specialist in Latin for more than 30 years. I loved the young people and I loved teaching.”
“Sister Thérèse gave her students a wonderful formation:  refinement and education with regards to values and culture. She treated them with respect and straightforwardness.”

At 65, Sister Thérèse answered a need to serve her community as local superior, first on the South Shore; then in our infirmary at the Motherhouse. Seven years later, she assisted at the switchboard. Even-tempered, always gracious, she was a good listener. Prayer was her source of energy.

“In difficult times, I gained the necessary courage from faith and trust in the Blessed Virgin. My capacity to bounce back helped me, in spite of obstacles, to find the solution which would restore life, peace, and serenity. I endeavoured to follow Christ ever more closely, relying on him as a solid rock. The book of our Constitutions was often my best book for meditation.”

Sister Thérèse was admitted to the infirmary at the age of 80.  Her life of prayer, including her prolonged suffering, prepared her to meet God who had chosen her.