FABC Urges Church in Asia to Become ‘Bridge-Builders’ in Final Assembly Message

Jakarta, Indonesia, July 26, 2026: The Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) has called on the Church in Asia to become a missionary synodal Church that builds bridges of dialogue, peace and hope in response to the region’s growing social, cultural and ecological challenges.

In its final message at the conclusion of the 12th FABC Plenary Assembly, held in Jakarta from July 20–26, the bishops said their days of prayer, listening, silence and Conversations in the Spirit reaffirmed that synodality is not merely a method of working together but a path of conversion that renews hearts, relationships and mission.

Reflecting on the Assembly’s theme, “You will see greater things…” (Jn 1:50), the bishops said the Church in Asia is called to embrace its cultural and religious diversity while strengthening communion and participation.

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The message identified key challenges facing the region, including polarisation, migration, rapid technological change, ecological degradation, shrinking democratic spaces, and widening social and economic inequalities. Rather than viewing them as obstacles, the bishops described them as opportunities for renewed missionary witness through education, interreligious dialogue, hospitality, care for the common home, and a deeper commitment to human dignity and solidarity.

The Assembly also acknowledged the continuing challenge of clericalism, calling for ongoing pastoral and synodal conversion that promotes listening, shared discernment and servant leadership.

Describing Christ as the living bridge between God and humanity, among peoples, and between humanity and the common home, the bishops urged Christians to become bridges and bridge-builders in their own communities.

The message called for bridges of trust where suspicion exists, bridges of peace where conflict divides communities, bridges of compassion for the poor, vulnerable and excluded, and bridges of hope for young people seeking meaning amid rapid social and technological change.

The bishops highlighted their visit to Jakarta’s Tunnel of Friendship, linking the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption and the Istiqlal Mosque, as a powerful symbol of the Church’s vocation to build bridges rather than barriers.

Recalling Pope Leo XIV’s address to the Assembly, the message emphasised that stronger communion among the local Churches is essential for the Church in Asia to fulfil its mission in culturally and religiously diverse societies.

The Assembly concluded by renewing its commitment to walk together in an ecumenical spirit, embrace ecological conversion, listen to the wisdom of Asia’s peoples and cultures, and accompany all people with humility and hope, expressing confidence in “seeing greater things.”

By Catholic Connect Reporter