"Embrace participatory and Synodal Approach": Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão

Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) and the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) has urged the Church to adopt a participatory and synodal approach to its mission.

Addressing a workshop for CCBI Secretaries and Regional Deputy Secretaries, the Cardinal emphasized the need for collective discernment, active participation, and shared responsibility among all the members of the Church.

He highlighted that the synodal approach strengthens communion and enhances the Church’s capacity to address contemporary challenges.

"The Church must walk together, ensuring every voice is heard and valued," Cardinal Ferrão said, calling on clergy, religious, and laity to collaborate in harmony.

The cardinal also stressed the importance of openness to the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

He reminded participants that the Church’s mission is rooted in Christ’s example of humility and service. This call aligns with Pope Francis’ vision of a Synodal Church—one that listens, dialogues, and journeys together as a community.

The two-day workshop, held at Jesuit-run Xavier Institute of Management University, Bhubaneswar, eastern Indian state of India, on January 26-27, 2025, was organized in preparation for the 36th CCBI Plenary Assembly, scheduled from January 28 to February 4, 2025.

During the workshop, secretaries of the CCBI Commissions and Regional Deputy Secretaries were trained in the spiritual conversation methodology. This approach aims to help them animate the bishops during the assembly, fostering deeper engagement and dialogue.

The upcoming assembly will focus on “Discerning Synodal Pathways for Mission.” This theme, to be deepened through spiritual conversation, seeks to promote meaningful dialogue and collaboration, encouraging participants to embrace a shared vision for the Church and to carry out its mission in its truly synodal spirit. -Stephen Alathara