Nepal: Apostolic Nuncio highlights Indigenous wisdom for Synodal living

Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal, highlighted the profound wisdom and enduring values of Indigenous communities, calling them exemplary models for contemporary societies.

Speaking at the Asian Forum on Celebrating Synodality and Indigenous Living Traditions in the Asian Church, held at the National Conference & Resource Center in Kathmandu, Nepal, from November 10 to 16, 2024, Archbishop Girelli underscored the relevance of Indigenous traditions in fostering harmony, sustainability, and spiritual depth in today’s rapidly evolving world.

The forum, organized by the Circle of Sacred Rice in Nepal, highlighted the significance of tribal traditions in shaping a more inclusive, sustainable, and spiritually enriched world.

The forum included 45 participants from 13 countries, including Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, South Korea, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, Timor Leste, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Speaking on the final day of the forum, Archbishop Girelli highlighted how tribal solidarity offers profound lessons for today’s fragmented and individualistic societies. “In an era of fragmentation and erosion of community, tribal solidarity has a message for the present-day individualistic society,” he said.

He described tribal life as naturally synodal, emphasizing their collective decision-making processes rooted in mutual belonging.

“The community thinks together, searches together, and arrives at conclusions together,” he explained, underscoring how tribal decisions carry a binding force respected by all.

Archbishop Girelli also noted that tribal communities uphold democratic principles, where every individual’s dignity is recognized, regardless of their social or physical status.

Women are respected as equals, and children are guided by love and persuasion rather than strict discipline. “A tribe is truly a large human family,” he remarked.

The Archbishop emphasized the deep spiritual connection Indigenous communities share with nature, presenting it as an ally to be nurtured rather than exploited.

“They see the world as alive and vibrant in the presence of the Spirit,” he said, adding that their respect for nature offers modern societies a sustainable framework for environmental management.

He further highlighted the cultural and spiritual wealth of Asia’s Indigenous communities, lamenting the limited attention given to their contributions.

“Dialogue with primal cultures will prove educative for every society that has long lost touch with its tribal roots,” he noted, stressing the need to preserve their traditions, including songs, stories, and values that align closely with Gospel teachings.

Archbishop Girelli concluded by reaffirming the Church’s missionary role in fostering a deeper connection between the tribal spirit and Christ, ensuring that Gospel values become an integral part of Indigenous life.

Imelda Soidi, Program Coordinator of the Institute of Formation Fondacio Asia (IFFAsia) from Malaysia, participated in the forum and presented on The Experience of Formation of Indigenous Youth and Emerging Ministries.

She shared, "I am reminded not to be afraid and to move forward in my mission with the conviction that God is always with me. This program has helped me embrace the evolving identity of our Church in Asia. I realize that I can contribute my talents and gifts to building this mission through the formation work I do."

Coming from an Indigenous background, she added, "I feel called to make the living and vibrant presence of Christ known through our culture and voices."