FABC launched the logo for "Asia Mission Congress 2025" and a book on Synodality and Indigenous Traditions

The Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) Central Committee meeting, held in Bangkok from March 10 to 15, 2025, marked significant milestones for the Church in Asia with the unveiling of the AMC 2025 logo and the launch of a book on Synodality and Indigenous Traditions.

The Asian Mission Congress (AMC) 2025, themed "The Great Pilgrimage of Hope," is set to take place in Penang, Malaysia, in November 2025.

Expected to gather over 1,000 participants, the event aims to inspire and mobilize mission-driven initiatives across Asia.

In a parallel development, a network of faith-based organizations and Indigenous rights advocates has launched a new book exploring the intersection of Synodality and Indigenous traditions in Asia.

The book, Synodality and Indigenous Living Traditions in Asia, was introduced by Salesian Bishop George Pallipparambil of Miao and officially released by Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, President of FABC, during the Bangkok meeting on March 12.

This volume is a compilation of papers, reflections, pastoral experiences, and proposals aimed at amplifying Indigenous voices within the universal Church. It originates from a seminar held in Kathmandu, Nepal, from November 10 to 16, 2024, where bishops, scholars, pastors, youth, and women leaders—many from or working with Indigenous communities—engaged in discussions on faith and Indigenous identity.  

Led by ROOTS: Catholic Network Among Indigenous Peoples of Asia, this initiative seeks to deepen the Church’s engagement with Indigenous perspectives through the Synodal process.

The book is structured into two broad sections: the first delves into theological and pastoral reflections, while the second presents contextual stories and testimonies from Indigenous communities.

According to the book’s editor, Fr. George Plathottam, SDB, the volume highlights the lived realities of Indigenous peoples, their wisdom, communal values, and their relationship with the Divine, the environment, and one another. It also addresses pressing issues such as urbanization, migration, climate change, and struggles for land and cultural preservation.

“The ideas shared by the authors are the fruit of their study, reflection, and experience, and hence, while editing them, efforts have been made to present them without diluting the original flavor of their contribution,” said Fr. Plathottam, as cited in Vatican News.

The book serves as a call for greater recognition of Indigenous theologies, liturgical inculturation, and reconciliation efforts. It aligns with the themes of the Synod on Synodality and Laudato Si, emphasizing the importance of the full participation of Indigenous communities in shaping the church’s future.

Cardinal Michael Czerny, Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, emphasized the importance of engaging with Indigenous communities as “principal dialogue partners” and learning from their “civilizational wisdom” while sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Bishop Paul Tighe, Secretary of the Dicastery for Culture and Education, underscored the value of listening and intercultural dialogue, stating, “The Church and the Indigenous communities have much to learn from, and much to give to, each other.” He reiterated Pope Francis’ vision of a Church that is outward-looking and engaged in genuine conversations with different cultures.

Meanwhile, Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal, highlighted the richness of Indigenous traditions and their relevance to modern society, stating that tribal cultures have much to teach the world about maintaining a healthy relationship with nature.

The authors hope that the insights shared in Synodality and Indigenous Living Traditions in Asia will foster deeper theological engagement and concrete actions in support of Indigenous communities in Asia.