The Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) recently held an important three-day meeting in Bangkok, Thailand, from August 5-8. The main focus of this meeting was to prepare for the second session of the General Assembly of the Synod, which is set to take place in October 2024. The bishops gathered to discuss how to make the Church more united and focused on its mission in Asia.
Cardinal Stephen Chow, the Bishop of Hong Kong, emphasized the importance of harmony and unity, values deeply rooted in Asian cultures. He believes these values are essential for the Church’s journey together, known as the synodal path. Cardinal Chow explained that the meeting aimed to inspire new ways of thinking about unity and how the Churches in Asia can contribute to the global Church.
During the meeting, the bishops listened to stories from young priests working in Japan, the Philippines, India, and Myanmar. These priests shared their experiences from the front lines, highlighting the need for the Church to listen more closely to those serving in challenging situations. These stories were collected during a previous gathering in Rome, where parish priests met to discuss their work for the Synod.
The discussions in Bangkok also focused on the Instrumentum Laboris, a working document that guides the Synod’s efforts. The bishops explored how the Church in Asia can live out its mission by being more inclusive, encouraging participation from everyone, and strengthening unity under the Pope’s leadership.
Vanessa Cheng Siu-wai, representing Hong Kong at the Synod, expressed her gratitude for the process of discernment. She appreciated how different Asian dioceses have worked together to promote synodality, which is about walking together in faith. Despite their different backgrounds, the participants felt a strong sense of connection and shared purpose.
The meeting concluded on a hopeful note, with delegates feeling a renewed sense of fellowship. They are optimistic that the strong bonds formed during the meeting will inspire the upcoming Synod session and the Church’s mission in the future.
Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop of Bombay, India, highlighted the importance of the friendships and unity that developed during the meeting. He believes these relationships will be valuable for the broader discussions at the Synod of Bishops.
In total, 38 delegates, including coordinators from 17 different Asian countries, attended the meeting, which was inaugurated by Cardinal Charles Maung Bo of Yangon, the President of the FABC.
Adapted from LiCAS News
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