Celebrating the life of Mike Asis

Dr Michael Demetrius H Asis or “Dr Love,” as many fondly call him, is a theologian, teacher, and friend who has left a lasting legacy.

As a theologian, Dr Mike has authored several books, chapters, and articles that have uniquely enriched inculturation in Philippine theologizing. These include notable books such as The Filipino Church at the Crossroads (2016), The Shape of the Filipino Church to Come: A Vision of Renewal in Filipino Sacramental Worship (2020), and Filipino Christ and the Historical Jesus (2021). His prolific writing was recognized at the 40th National Book Awards/Manila Critics Circle in 2023 where he became a finalist. He also engaged the public to share his faith and foster a transformative social consciousness through various talks, especially with the Discovery Weekend Preparation Program and Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs), and through TV/radio interviews with ABS-CBN Teleradyo. 

Dr Mike brought his discoveries and experience into his teaching. As a faculty member of the Department of Theology, Ateneo de Manila University, since 1987, he passionately taught various courses, such as “A Theology of Marriage, Family Life, and Vocation,” as well as “Teaching Worship and Spirituality” in the Department’s Formation Institute for Religion Educators (FIRE) Program. For over 30 years, he tirelessly challenged students to reflect on the Christian faith and the situation of the local Church. When reflecting on his teaching, Dr. Mike expressed that he valued cura personalis towards his students. He also mentored graduate students and young faculty with humor and discipline. From 2013 to 2017, he served as department chair, and in 2024, he retired while embodying gravitas and with the rank of full professor.

Amidst Dr Mike’s many projects and accomplishments, he always made time for his friends and family. He seamlessly upgraded professional relationships with colleagues into friendships. He was often the life of the party and the host of the party. In quiet moments, he was the confidant friends counted on for wisdom and advice. He modelled how it was to live a meaningful life surrounded by loved ones. He was a loving husband to his wife, TinTin; and a very proud father to his son, Miguel. 

It is with deep sorrow that we think of his passing, yet it is also with profound gratitude that we thank God for letting Dr Mike be a part of our lives. He is among the giants on whose shoulders younger theologians in the Philippines can stand on. As we await the final fulfillment of God’s Kingdom, where all our efforts will bear fruit and all our tears will be wiped away (Rev. 21:4), we continue facing the challenge Dr Mike also took on during his life.

All Christians—whether Catholic, Protestant, etc.—continue to be challenged by a faith that expresses itself in hope and in love. This is true especially for the many who find themselves in the peripheries. We are challenged today to identify the structural roots of poverty, corruption, and injustice, and to finally address the culture of violence and death that continues to haunt modern-day Filipino society. Faith in Christ calls for such a timely commitment.¹

Dr Mike’s wake was held in the College Chapel from 29 to 31 October. He was interred on 5 November at the Garden of the Divine Word in the Christ the King Mission Seminary Compound along E Rodriguez Ave, Quezon City. We pray that he may rest in peace with perpetual light shining upon him knowing that he lived his life of service with love and faith.

¹Michael Demetrius Asis, The Shape of the Filipino Church to Come: A Vision of Renewal in Filipino Sacramental Worship (Claretian Communications Foundation, Inc., 2020), 96.