The Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) has appointed Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David of the Philippines as the Chairperson of the newly formed Commission for Synodality.
FABC said the move underscored his extensive experience and dedication to fostering a synodal Church across Asia.
The decision was made during the FABC Central Committee’s annual meeting held from March 12-13, 2025, at the Camillian Centre in Bangkok.
The commission aims to promote the ongoing formation of bishops in synodality, facilitate resource-sharing among episcopal conferences, and collaborate with both FABC Offices and other Continental Episcopal Organizations in implementing the synodal way.
Commitment to Synodality
The newly formed commission is dedicated to advancing the principles of synodality, emphasizing inclusivity, shared leadership, and open dialogue within the Church.
A key initiative under its mandate is the organization of a seminar for bishops from across Asia, providing a platform for sharing experiences, best practices, and insights to strengthen the sense of unity and participation within the Church.
By bringing together church leaders, the FABC said the commission hopes to cultivate an environment of collaboration and engagement, ensuring that both clergy and laypeople actively contribute to shaping the future of the Church in Asia.
Joining Cardinal David in leading the commission is Rev. Fr. Clarence Devadass from Malaysia, who has been appointed Executive Secretary.
Fr. Devadass has extensive experience, having served for years in the FABC Office of Theological Concerns.
The commission also includes a diverse group of members, all of whom have actively participated in both sessions of the Synod on Synodality:
- 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
- Sr. Lalitha Thomas SJT – India
