New leadership for Asian Catholic Bishops
On January 1, 2025, Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão assumed the presidency of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC), a significant development in the Catholic Church’s Asian landscape. This marks a new chapter for the organization, representing a vast and diverse region.
Cardinal Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India, succeeds Cardinal Charles Maung Bo, SDB, who served two three-year terms. The transition signifies a shift in leadership for the FABC, an organization encompassing a significant portion of the global Catholic population.
A Diverse and Expanding Network
The FABC’s influence extends across South, Southeast, East, and Central Asia, uniting 15 Asian Catholic Bishops’ Conferences. This includes nations such as Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, Indonesia, Timor-Leste, the Philippines, Korea, and Japan. Moreover, the Federation also includes associate members from Macau, Hong Kong, Mongolia, Nepal, and Novosibirsk, highlighting its broad reach and commitment to inclusivity.
The sheer number of bishops involved is impressive. The FABC includes all 277 bishops of india, representing the Latin, Syro-Malabar, and Syro-Malankara Churches. This demonstrates the significant role of India within the broader Asian Catholic community.
New Leadership Team
Cardinal Ferrão’s election as FABC President followed the Central committee Meeting in Bangkok on February 22,2024. He is joined by Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David of the Philippines, who serves as Vice President, and Cardinal Tarcisio Kikuchi of Tokyo, who continues as Secretary General. This leadership team brings a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives to guide the FABC into the future.
the appointment of Cardinal Ferrão and the new leadership team is expected to shape the future direction of the FABC, influencing the pastoral care and social engagement of millions of catholics across Asia. The organization’s role in addressing contemporary challenges facing the Church and society in the region will be closely watched by observers worldwide.
The FABC’s work resonates with the concerns of the global Catholic community, particularly in areas such as interfaith dialog, social justice, and environmental stewardship. the new leadership’s vision and initiatives will be crucial in navigating these complex issues within the unique context of Asia.
the change in leadership marks a significant moment for the Catholic Church in Asia,setting the stage for new initiatives and collaborations in the years to come.
