Church called to be ‘Pilgrim of Hope’ in troubled world, says Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão

PANAJI

Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, President of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) and the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), said the Church is called to be a “Pilgrim of Hope” in a troubled world.  

He was addressing the 20th Plenary Assembly of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), held in Kigali, Rwanda.  

Cardinal Filipe Neri expressed his deep gratitude to His Eminence Fridolin Cardinal Ambongo, President of SECAM, for the invitation and warm welcome. Speaking on behalf of the Church in Asia, he conveyed greetings and solidarity to the Church in Africa.  

The FABC, he noted, includes 17 Episcopal Conferences, two Synods of Oriental Churches, and three Associate Members, spread across South, Southeast, East, and Central Asia.   

Cardinal Ferrão highlighted the global significance of the Synod on Synodality initiated by Pope Francis in 2021.  

He said this synodal journey calls the Church to walk together in communion, participation, and mission. He also drew attention to the ongoing Jubilee Year of Hope, reminding all that the Church is called to be a “Pilgrim of Hope” in a troubled world.  

He praised the theme of the Assembly- “Christ, Source of Hope, Reconciliation and Peace” as both timely and meaningful. He acknowledged Africa’s struggles with conflict, displacement, and economic injustice, and commended the Church in Africa for its bold vision for the next 25 years, a vision of unity, healing, and Gospel-rooted action.  

Cardinal Ferrão also spoke of similar challenges in Asia: poverty, forced migration, environmental degradation, the suffering of women and indigenous peoples, and rising extremism. He emphasised the need for both continents to walk together in faith and action.  

“Our shared journey strengthens the Church’s witness in today’s world,” he said. “Together, we can build a more inclusive, peaceful, and hopeful future.”  

The FABC president further expressed solidarity and shared vision at SECAM 20th Plenary Assembly.