A three-day seminar on Synodality, hosted at the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Bangladesh Centre, has cast a spotlight on the transformative potential of inclusivity and dialogue within the Asian Catholic Church.
The event, drawing participants from across Bangladesh’s eight dioceses, focused on deepening understanding of synodality as a collaborative and consultative approach to church governance and community engagement.
“Synodality is a dynamic vision of the church, revealed through the process of setting ongoing goals,” said Sister Nathalie Becquart, XMCJ, under-secretary for the Synod of the Vatican.
One of the key themes of the seminar was the adaptation of synodality to the unique socio-cultural landscape of Asia.
Fr. George Plathottam, SDB, executive secretary of the social communication office of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences, urged Catholics to “listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit as we embrace the synodal process, promoting mutual respect, cooperation, and walking together with all.”
The priest highlighted how the church could address local challenges such as poverty, migration, and cultural diversity through a synodal approach, promoting mutual respect and cooperation.
“Dialogue and mutual respect for each other’s culture are essential,” he noted.
Pius Costa, a participant in the seminar and a former government official, shared his reflections on how synodality influenced their personal and professional lives. “My journey with brothers and sisters of other faiths requires maintaining synodality with them,” Costa remarked.
The seminar also delved into the challenges of implementing synodal processes within traditional church structures.
Archbishop Bijoy N. D’Cruze of Dhaka shared his personal experiences with synodality, focusing on the Christian community’s role in a multi-religious and cultural Bangladesh.
He pointed out the current influences of power, money, and intolerance within the community and stressed that these issues could be mitigated through the principles of synodality.
“Just as Jesus Christ empathized with the sufferings of others, we too must listen attentively to others, welcome and embrace others with our hearts,” the prelate said.
Archbishop Kevin Randall, the Apostolic Nuncio to Bangladesh, reiterated Pope Francis’ vision of a church that listens and collaborates, marking a pivotal step towards fostering a more inclusive and understanding church community.
“The Holy Father, Pope Francis, has taken a step to create a beautiful connection among everyone in our Church, helping us develop a good heart for listening to others,” he said during the concluding Eucharistic celebration.
