As Asia’s bishops prepare for the 12th FABC Plenary Assembly in Bali, the focus remains on translating synodal principles into concrete actions
Newsroom (26/09/2025, Gaudium Press ) More than 50 bishops and Church leaders from the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) convened at the Baan Phu Waan Pastoral Training Center in Samphran, a western suburb of Bangkok, from September 22 to 26, 2025, to deepen their commitment to synodality. The seminar focused on implementing the Final Document of the Synod on Synodality (2024) and reviewing the Bangkok Document (2022), a pivotal text marking the FABC’s 50th anniversary and rooted in the global synodal process.
The four-day gathering, a preparatory step for the FABC’s 12th Plenary Assembly in Bali in June 2026, emphasized practical ways to integrate synodality into Asia’s diverse ecclesial contexts. “The goal was to study the Synod’s Final Document, reflect on our dioceses, and explore how the Church in Asia can embody its vision,” said Archbishop Anthony Weradet Chaiseri, vice president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Thailand, in an interview with Licas News.
A Synodal Church in Action
The seminar featured lectures, prayerful reflections, and small-group discussions centered on three key themes: the reception of the synodal process in Asia, transparency and accountability in Church governance, and fostering a contemplative approach to discernment. Nine group discussions allowed participants to explore these themes in depth, drawing on the Synod’s Final Document and the Bangkok Document.
Fr. Clarence Devadass, a Malaysian priest and executive secretary of the FABC’s Office for Theological Affairs, delivered a compelling address on “Transparency and Accountability for a Synodal Church in Asia.” He underscored Pope Francis’ call for accountability to the community as a cornerstone of synodal reform. “The Church has consistently urged governments and institutions to uphold integrity, transparency, and accountability,” Devadass noted, while candidly acknowledging that “many people have questioned the transparency and accountability of the Catholic Church due to historical, structural, and ethical concerns.”
Speaking against the backdrop of widespread corruption in Asia, Devadass emphasized that accountability is “not optional but a demand of authentic discipleship.” He urged dioceses and parishes to foster a culture of vulnerability, which he described as a strength that builds trust and promotes human connection. “Transparency and accountability must shape pastoral planning, leadership appointments, and evangelization methods,” he said, calling for practices that extend beyond addressing abuse cases to all facets of Church life.
Local Churches and Communion
The seminar also highlighted the critical role of local Churches in advancing synodality. Fr. Vimal Tirimanna, a Sinhalese Redemptorist, called for a “conversion of bonds” within and beyond the Church. “These bonds, grounded in communion and synodality, require local Churches to shift from a static, hierarchical model to a more inclusive vision of the People of God,” he said. This vision embraces solidarity with the poor, collaboration with lay movements, and ecumenical partnerships with other faiths. “We need to plant the seeds of synodality in Asia today,” Tirimanna urged.
Philippine Cardinal Pablo S. David, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, spoke of the “providential” convergence between the Bangkok Document and the Synod’s Final Document. “The Bangkok Document is deeply embedded in the spirit of synodality,” he said, outlining four key paths for Asia: embracing diversity as a gift, recognizing other faiths as neighbors rather than “others,” promoting a Church that journeys with the poor, and prioritizing environmental conversion as a pastoral imperative.
A Call for Humility and Discernment
In his homily during a Mass on September 24, Cardinal Stephen Chow of Hong Kong emphasized humility, patience, and trust in God as hallmarks of the synodal journey. “Cultural changes don’t happen overnight,” he said, encouraging the faithful to walk humbly together despite challenges. Chow highlighted discernment as central to synodality, noting that an overemphasis on being “good Catholics” can stifle honest questioning. “Synodality is not about accomplishment and moving on, but about staying and building relationships. Trust requires time and respect,” he said.
Looking Ahead to Bali
The Samphran seminar marks a significant step in the Catholic Church’s ongoing synodal process, which continues until 2028 following the conclusion of the Synod on Synodality in 2024. As Asia’s bishops prepare for the 12th FABC Plenary Assembly in Bali, the focus remains on translating synodal principles into concrete actions that resonate with the region’s diverse cultures, faiths, and social realities.
The FABC’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and communion with the marginalized and other faiths signals a transformative vision for the Church in Asia—one that seeks to embody the synodal call to listen, discern, and walk together.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Asianews.IT and UCA News
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