Cardinal Ferrão Takes Helm of Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences
Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, Archbishop of goa and president of the Conference of Catholic bishops of India, has assumed the crucial role of President of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC). His tenure began on January 1,2025,marking a new chapter for the influential association. Cardinal Ferrão succeeds Cardinal Charles Muang Bo, SDB, who served two consecutive three-year terms.
New Leadership for Asia’s Catholic Bishops
Cardinal ferrão’s election took place during the FABC’s Central Commitee Meeting in Bangkok on February 22, 2024. Cardinal Pablo virgilio David of Kalookan, Philippines, was elected Vice President, while Cardinal Tarcisio kikuchi of Tokyo continues his service as secretary General. This experienced leadership team is poised to guide the FABC through the evolving challenges and opportunities facing the Church in Asia.
A Vast and Diverse Network
The FABC unites Bishops from across South, Southeast, East, and Central Asia, representing a vast and diverse Catholic community. Its primary mission is to foster collaboration,dialog,and unity among the Churches in the region. The FABC also plays a vital role in addressing the complex social, cultural, and religious issues affecting Asian societies.
Priorities for the New President
cardinal Ferrão brings a wealth of experience and deep understanding of the Asian context to his new role. In a recent interview,he shared his vision for the FABC,emphasizing the importance of unity,dialogue,and accompaniment. He highlighted the need to address the challenges facing the Church in asia, including poverty, inequality, and religious persecution.Cardinal Ferrão stressed the crucial role of lay involvement and interfaith collaboration in building a more just and humane society.
“We must continue to build bridges of understanding and cooperation with other religions and cultures. ” – Cardinal Filipe Neri ferrão
Cardinal Ferrão’s leadership comes at a time of both promise and uncertainty for the Catholic church in Asia. His vision for unity, dialogue, and social justice offers a hopeful path forward for the FABC and the communities it serves.
Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão: Leading Asian Catholicism Towards Unity and Growth
The Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) is a vital force unifying Catholic communities across the vast and diverse continent. Representing 15 asian Catholic Bishops’ Conferences, the FABC stretches from Sri Lanka in the south to Japan in the north, encompassing countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Additional members include the Bishops’ Conference of Central Asia and the Chinese Regional Bishops’ Conference. Notably, the Federation also includes all 277 bishops of India, representing the Latin, Syro-Malabar, and Syro-Malankara Churches.
“The Federation includes all the bishops of India, numbering 277 in total, belonging also to the Latin, Syro-Malabar and Syro-Malankara Churches.”
Associate members further expand the FABC’s reach,including bishops from Macau,Hong kong,Mongolia,Nepal,and Novosibirsk.
A New era for the FABC
Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India, recently assumed the esteemed role of FABC President. In an exclusive interview, Cardinal Ferrão shared his vision for the organization and outlined the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Priorities and Collaborations
Archyde: Cardinal Ferrão, congratulations on your new role as FABC President. What does this position mean to you,and what are your immediate priorities?
Cardinal Ferrão: Thank you. This role is both a grate honor and a profound obligation.The FABC represents a vast and diverse network of Catholic communities across Asia, each with its unique challenges and strengths. My immediate priority is to listen—to the bishops, clergy, and lay faithful—to understand their needs and aspirations. Unity and collaboration will be key as we work together to address issues like evangelization, social justice, and interfaith dialogue.
Navigating Diversity
Archyde: The FABC encompasses bishops from 15 countries, each with distinct cultural and religious contexts. How do you plan to navigate this diversity to foster a sense of unity?
A Beacon of Hope: cardinal Ferrão’s Vision for the Catholic Church in asia
Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, newly appointed President of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC), brings a wealth of experience and a hopeful vision for the Catholic Church’s future in Asia. In a recent interview with Archyde, Cardinal ferrão articulated his priorities and aspirations for the FABC, emphasizing diversity, interfaith dialogue, and the crucial role of the laity.
Celebrating Diversity: A Mosaic of Faiths
Recognizing the rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions prevalent in Asia, Cardinal Ferrão affirmed, “Diversity is one of our greatest strengths.” He envisions the Church in Asia as a vibrant mosaic, reflecting this diversity while finding common ground in their shared faith. He believes that regular interaction,regional meetings,and collaborative initiatives are crucial for building bridges and strengthening the Church’s collective mission.
Facing Challenges with Bold Action and Pastoral Sensitivity:
Cardinal Ferrão acknowledged the pressing challenges facing the Church in Asia. The rise of secularism and materialism, he noted, pose a threat to spiritual values. Moreover,persecution and restrictions on religious freedom in certain regions demand a strong response. He emphasized the need to address the needs of marginalized communities, including migrants, refugees, and the poor, urging both pastoral sensitivity and bold action.
Interfaith Dialogue: A Gift and a Necessity
In a region characterized by religious pluralism, Cardinal Ferrão underscored the importance of interfaith dialogue. “interfaith dialogue is not just a necessity but a gift,” he stated.He sees the FABC playing a vital role in promoting mutual respect and understanding among followers of different faiths, fostering a culture of peace and solidarity inspired by the Gospel’s message of love and reconciliation.
Empowering the Laity: The Backbone of the Church
Recognizing the indispensable role of the laity in the Church’s mission, Cardinal Ferrão expressed his commitment to empowering lay Catholics in Asia. He envisions their active participation in the FABC’s activities, particularly in areas like education, social outreach, and evangelization. “The laity is the backbone of the Church,” he emphasized. He believes that providing them with formation and opportunities for leadership will equip them to be effective ambassadors of Christ.
A Vision for the Future:
Renewal, Hope, and Synodal Communion
Cardinal Ferrão’s vision for the FABC is that of a dynamic and forward-looking body, deeply rooted in the Gospel and responsive to the signs of the times. He envisions embracing new technologies for evangelization, strengthening the Church’s commitment to social justice, and fostering a culture of synodality where every voice is heard and valued. He aspires for the FABC to be a beacon of hope and renewal for the Church in Asia, inspiring other regions to embrace diversity as a source of strength.
A Call to Action: Embracing Diversity as a Source of Strength
Cardinal Ferrão posed a thought-provoking question for readers: “In a world frequently enough divided by differences, how can the Church in Asia inspire other regions to embrace diversity as a source of strength?”
Cardinal Ferrão: Championing Unity and Dialogue in Asia’s Catholic Church
Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, the newly elected President of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC), has outlined a compelling vision for the Catholic Church in Asia. His leadership arrives at a crucial juncture for the region’s Catholic community, navigating a landscape of both challenges and opportunities.
A Focus on Unity in Diversity
Cardinal Ferrão emphasizes the importance of unity amidst diversity.He believes the Church in Asia can serve as a powerful model, showcasing how differences can be bridges rather than barriers. “I believe the Church in Asia can serve as a model of unity in diversity by demonstrating that our differences are not obstacles but opportunities for growth and enrichment,” he stated.
His vision centers around the Gospel’s call for love and service.Cardinal Ferrão envisions a church where shared values and a commitment to christ transcend cultural and societal divides.
Building Bridges Through Dialogue
Cardinal Ferrão advocates for open and honest dialogue as a vital tool for fostering understanding and cooperation. He sees dialogue as a path towards addressing the complex issues facing the Church in Asia.
“By living out the Gospel’s call to love and serve one another,we can show the world that true unity is possible when we focus on what unites us rather than what divides us,” he said.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
Cardinal ferrão’s leadership comes at a pivotal time. His focus on unity, dialogue, and collaboration offers a hopeful vision for the Catholic Church in Asia. As he begins his tenure, the faithful across the continent eagerly await the impact of his leadership, hoping it will inspire and guide the Church in addressing the challenges and opportunities of our time.
