Known as a kind and jolly fellow, Fr. Jean-Marie Adubangho Chuvi, passed away last May 20 in Manila, Philippines due to a sudden illness. He is one of the founding members of the Philippine Mission, esteemed and cherished by his Assumption brothers and those whom he had befriended, worked and lived with.

Having served as a pastor in Africa for many years, he brought to the Philippine Mission a very pastoral spirit. Chuvi has showed enthusiasm in collaborating with the local parish and ministering to basic ecclesial communities. He quickly learned the Filipino language and in a year’s time, he was already saying Masses in Filipino. He is well-loved by people from Daang Tubo, Marytown and Escopa, three impoverished areas where the Assumptionists have done pastoral and social ministries.

Chuvi has served also as a formator of young Assumptionists in the Philippines. He is one of the founding members of Pavel House, a formation community named after the youngest Assumptionist martyr. He was director of its residency program when it was a house for candidates and its local superior when it became a house for postulants and student-brothers.

Chuvi brought joy and camaraderie in community. He was a person who likes to joke and share stories. His laughter was highly contagious. He is known to have remarked that "a feast is not a feast if it is not celebrated with good beer."

Most people will agree that Chuvi was someone who had listening ears and brotherly concern. People find it easy to confide in him and share with him their joys and sorrows.

All of good things that Chuvi has done for the Philippine Mission may be summed up in one word and that is: generosity.
He has committed himself to the establishment and growth of the Assumptionist mission and has done so with an ever joyful service.

“Maraming, maraming salamat, Chuvi. Mahal ka namin.”

(Filipino for: “Thank you very much, Chuvi. We love you.”)