On Saturday, September 8th, in Castelnaudary, Fr. Antoine Chenu, an emblematic missionary figure and close friend of Charles de Foucauld, fulfilled his lifelong dream by making his permanent commitment to the Society of African Missions (SMA) at the age of 85. The simple and moving ceremony took place in the presence of the Lyon Provincial Council, marking a significant milestone in Fr. Chenu’s spiritual journey and long-standing dedication to missionary work.

Fr. Chenu devoted a large part of his life to Niger, tirelessly working alongside the SMA Fathers. His commitment to the mission left an indelible mark not only on local communities but also on his fellow missionaries. “I am happy to be part of this team, even though I am old,” he humbly shared.

Ordained as a priest for the Archdiocese of Niamey in Niger on September 24th, 1980, Fr. Chenu had been an associate and honorary member of the Society of African Missions for over forty years. His integration as a full member of the SMA is the culmination of many years of collaboration and service. It also symbolizes the bridge he built between the past and the present of the Society, fostering dialogue between generations and encouraging innovation in the pastoral work of the local Church.

A former Christian Brother, Fr. Chenu has been assisting at Saint Michael’s parish in Castelnaudary for the past five years. He is a key figure in the SMA pastoral team in the village where the Society’s founder, Bishop Marion de Brésillac, was baptized. His presence reflects both his deep missionary zeal and his continued dedication to the mission of the SMA.

Modest, open, cultured, humble, and supportive, “Antoine lives like we do. He eats what we eat. He drinks what we drink. He even visits us in our remote villages in the Aïr or Makalondi,” notes one of his former students.

His legacy, especially in Niger, remains unforgettable. Known for his hands-on approach, Fr. Chenu was a driving force behind many mission schools. He traveled across the country delivering food, clothing, and school supplies to the most remote villages. His generosity extended far beyond material goods: he was a spiritual father to many students and families, often forgiving the debts of those unable to repay him. “Antoine was simply the father of all poor students from the depths of Niger,” one of his former students fondly recalls.

Fr. Chenu was not only a missionary but also an ambassador for the poor. Students from rural Niger, struggling financially, knew they could rely on him. He closely followed the academic progress of each student, encouraging them to strive for excellence. His motto was simple: “Impose yourself through hard work. You are the Niger of tomorrow.”

Forced by age and circumstances, Fr. Chenu reluctantly had to leave Niger, a country he loved more than his native France. “I must go die in the land of the whites,” he said, expressing his sadness about his inevitable return to France after decades spent in Africa.

His former students and the various communities he served remember him with deep gratitude. “Antoine, like the other priests and sisters of the Catholic mission in Niger, you have been a help to us poor children, a help we can only repay with prayers,” one of his protégés declared. “One day, we will visit you, Inshallah, to remind you to reschedule our debts once again!”

Humility and solidarity were Fr. Chenu’s trademarks. He lived simply, sharing meals and experiences with those he served, from the most remote corners of Niger to the village of Siloé.

As he continues his mission in Castelnaudary, the legacy of Fr. Antoine Chenu, a humble and devoted servant of the poor, lives on. His contributions to Niger and the SMA remain etched in the hearts of those who knew him.

Long live Fr. Antoine Chenu, the ambassador of the poor.