FABC establishes Commission for Synodality to strengthen Asian Church collaboration

The Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences (FABC) has established a Commission for Synodality, marking a significant step in strengthening the Church’s commitment to synodal governance across Asia. 

The decision was made during the FABC Central Committee’s annual meeting from March 12-13, 2025, at the Camillian Centre in Bangkok, Thailand.

According to the FABC statement dated March 14, the commission will "foster the ongoing formation of Bishops in the area of Synodality" while also facilitating resource-sharing among Episcopal Conferences across Asia.

It will also work closely with FABC Offices and other Continental Episcopal Organizations to implement the synodal way in local Churches. The commission aims to provide structured guidance on Synodality while ensuring greater participation and dialogue among clergy and laypeople.

The FABC emphasized that this initiative is "a crucial step in strengthening unity and mutual support within the Asian Church" and will focus on "encouraging open dialogue and shared decision-making, ensuring that the Church remains engaged with the realities of the faithful across Asia."

One of its first major initiatives will be organizing a comprehensive seminar for Bishops from different countries, fostering discussions on leadership, inclusivity, and the practical implementation of Synodality in diverse cultural contexts.

The commission will be chaired by Cardinal Pablo David of the Philippines, who brings extensive experience in the synodal process, and Rev. Fr. Clarence Devadass from Malaysia has been appointed as the Executive Secretary. 

The commission’s members include Rev. Fr. William LaRousse, MM (FABC Central Secretariat), Dr. Christina Kheng (Singapore), Rev. Fr. Vimal Tirimana, CSsR (Sri Lanka), Ms. Estella Padilla (Philippines), Ms. Momoko Nishimura, SEMD (Japan), Rev. Fr. Enrico Ayo (Philippines), and Sr. Lalitha Thomas, SJT (India).

All members of the commission actively participated in both sessions of the Synod on Synodality, equipping them with valuable insights into the process and its practical applications. Their diverse cultural backgrounds and experiences will contribute to ensuring that synodality is integrated into the Church in Asia in a meaningful and effective way.

FABC officials highlighted the critical role of this commission in responding to Pope Francis' vision of a synodal Church. The statement stressed that "the formation of this commission is a testament to the FABC’s commitment to ongoing renewal and adaptation in response to the evolving needs of the Church and society." 

This initiative reflects the growing importance of collaboration, shared leadership, and active participation among the clergy and laity in shaping the future of the Church in Asia.

The establishment of the Commission for Synodality underscores the FABC's role in leading the way towards a more participatory and responsive Church. With a strong leadership team and a clear mission, this commission is expected to play a pivotal role in guiding the Asian Church towards a future deeply rooted in the principles of Synodality: participation, communion, and mission.