Rome – In Memoriam: Fala Valery Ngong Ekem, SJ
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved companion, Fala Valery Ngong Ekem, SJ. who passed away in San Francisco, United States, on the night of April 26 to 27, 2024 after a brief illness. We share with you a text based on the testimonies of his collaborators during his time in our office.
Valery’s sudden departure at his young age (33) has left a significant void in our lives. His radiant smile and infectious laughter were a source of joy and vitality to all who knew him. His two-year tenure (June 2020 – June 2022) at the Secretariat as communication Coordinator was marked by abundant blessings. His simplicity, diligence, and commitment to justice, peace, and environmental stewardship were truly inspiring.
Valery’s journey to priesthood began in the seminary, where he first felt God’s call. He later found his true path with the Society of Jesus, which led him on a new journey that included improving his French, as he hailed from the English-speaking part of Cameroon. Despite his diocesan friends already being ordained, Valery continued his formation as a Jesuit with great willingness and a remarkable capacity for learning and reflection.
Valery was a simple, companionable, hard-working, intelligent, and committed individual. He felt challenged by the realities of his continent and was driven to provide a more creative and efficient response. His interest in ecology grew stronger with his work in the Secretariat and after his summer stay at Ecosummer Camp in Switzerland, which he thoroughly enjoyed.
Valery arrived in Rome during the pandemic and had to spend fifteen days in quarantine in his room, without contact with anyone, before joining the Secretariat. Despite the frustrating situation, he responded with calmness and a good sense of humor. His life was short but undoubtedly intense and full, until God decided to call him to Himself. In heaven, he surely met Fr Stan Swamy, whose commitment and life he admired so much.
Valery’s presence in our Secretariat was a blessing. In addition to being a great worker, intelligent, good, and open-minded, he wanted to do something concrete for his country, Cameroon, by furthering his studies in environmental management and care of the common home, following the call of Pope Francis and the fourth Universal Apostolic Preference.
We pray for our companion, brother, and friend Fala Valery, who passed away suddenly and was called up to heaven by our Lord. We pray for his family, his friends, and all those who knew him because his death leaves a great void. May the Lord keep him in His bosom as we keep his presence in our lives and in our hearts.
Valery, you were a precious gift, and we will always cherish and think of you with joy. May the Lord walk beside you and accompany you into the Kingdom of Heaven. You will always remain in our hearts.
We will be celebrating Valery's life with a Mass of thanksgiving at the General Curia on Saturday 1 June, 4 pm, with the possibility of joining in online.
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