Two Asian leaders elected to Synod Council: Cardinal Ferrão and Bishop David

During the 15th General Congregation of the Synod of Bishops, two prominent figures from Asia—His Eminence Cardinal Filipe Neri António Sebastião do Rosário Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and Damão (India), and His Excellency Msgr. Pablo Virgilio S. David, Bishop of Kalookan (Philippines)—were elected to the Ordinary Council of the General Secretariat of the Synod. Their selection highlights Asia's growing role in the global Church's synodal journey.

This election is part of Pope Francis's efforts to enhance diversity within the Synod's leadership by increasing the council members to 17.

Of these, 12 were elected by the Synod assembly, representing bishops from around the world, while the remaining members will be appointed by the Holy Father, including the head of a Vatican dicastery aligned with the Synod's theme.

Cardinal Ferrão and Bishop David will play crucial roles in guiding the next phase of the synodal process, which focuses on preparing and implementing the Ordinary General Assembly. The council, under the direction of the Holy Father, aims to strengthen the Church’s mission by promoting greater participation and dialogue across all levels of the global Catholic community.

The Ordinary Council’s mandate, as outlined in the Apostolic Constitution Episcopalis Communio, includes overseeing the preparation and implementation of the Synod’s Ordinary General Assembly. Members will serve until the conclusion of the next assembly, ensuring continuity in the synodal process.

Cardinal Ferrão and Bishop David’s election not only emphasizes Asia’s significant representation but also reflects the broader efforts to create a more consultative and inclusive Church. They will join bishops from various regions, including North America, Latin America, Africa, Europe, and Oceania, in this important mission.

This Synod assembly has introduced several groundbreaking measures, including the involvement of lay delegates—comprising about a quarter of the attendees—and granting women the right to vote, marking a pivotal moment in the Church's history.

The process, which began in 2021, has involved consultations at parish, diocesan, national, and continental levels, making this Synod one of the most inclusive to date.

As the Synod draws to a close, the final session will conclude with a vote on a document containing key recommendations, which Pope Francis will consider for a possible post-synodal apostolic exhortation.

The election of Bishop David and Cardinal Ferrão underscores the growing influence of Asian leaders in shaping the Church’s future as it continues its journey toward a more synodal, participatory structure.

Their leadership will ensure that the voices of the faithful from their regions are well-represented in this ongoing global dialogue, marking a significant step for the Church in Asia and the universal Church alike.