Commission for Synodality Established to Strengthen Church Unity in Asia

Bangkok, March 14, 2025 – The Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences (FABC) launched a Commission for Synodality during the FABC Central Committee’s annual meeting held from March 12-13, 2025, at the Camillian Centre in Bangkok, Thailand. This newly formed commission aims to deepen the ongoing formation of bishops from Asia in the spirit of synodality. It also aims to facilitate resource-sharing among member conferences and collaborate with other FABC offices and continental Episcopal organisations to promote the synodal way in Asia.

During the meeting, the FABC Central Committee appointed Cardinal Pablo David of the Philippines as chairman of the commission. Rev. Fr. Clarence Devadass from Malaysia, who served for many years in the FABC Office of Theological Concerns, will serve as Executive Secretary of the commission.

The newly formed commission will lead various initiatives to promote synodality across Asia, including organising a seminar for bishops to encourage dialogue, inclusion, and collaboration within the Catholic Church. By fostering engagement among bishops, clergy, and laypeople, the commission seeks to strengthen Church unity and reinforce the mission of synodality throughout the continent.

Notable members of the Commission for Synodality 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).

Each member of the commission has actively participated in the Synod on Synodality, equipping themselves with invaluable insights and practical knowledge, which they now bring to the commission. Their collective expertise will guide efforts to deepen synodality across Asia in alignment with the broader objectives of the FABC.

The establishment of the Commission for Synodality marks a significant milestone in the FABC’s ongoing efforts to renew the Church and adapt to contemporary challenges. It reaffirms the organisation's dedication to embracing synodality to strengthen unity among the faithful and foster greater engagement within the Church in Asia.

By Rev. Fr. William LaRousse MM,

Assistant Secretary General,

Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences