Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
by Father John Mi Shen*
Jakarta (Fides news Agency) -More than 120 Church leaders from across Asia will gather in Jakarta, Indonesia, from July 20–26, 2026, for the 12th Plenary Assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC).
Hosted by the Archdiocese of Jakarta at Hotel Mulia Senayan, the Assembly will reflect on the theme: “Synodal Conversion and the Mission to Be Bridges and Bridge-Builders in Asia,” inspired by the Gospel verse, “You Will See Greater Things” (John 1:50).
The participants include bishops from across Asia, representatives of the Holy See, FABC office secretaries, theologians, and pastoral experts. Throughout the week, they will gather in prayer, dialogue, and discernment to reflect on the future mission of the Church in Asia.
The opening Eucharist on July 21 will be presided over by Cardinal Oswald Gracias, the Holy Father’s Special Envoy. Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, President of the FABC, will deliver the keynote address, while Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization (Section for First Evangelization and New Particular Churches), will lead a day of prayer and recollection on synodal spirituality.
The Assembly will also feature keynote presentations by Msgr. Tomáš Halík and Dr. Choong Pui Yee, together with regional discussions and “Conversation in the Spirit” sessions addressing the challenges and opportunities facing the Church in Asia.
On July 25, participants will receive a message from Pope Leo XIV before reviewing the Assembly’s draft final message and implementation framework. The Plenary Assembly will conclude on July 26 with the approval of its final message, followed by the closing Eucharist at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption in Jakarta and a visit to the nearby Istiqlal Mosque through the Friendship Tunnel, a symbol of Indonesia’s commitment to interreligious harmony.
As Executive Secretary of the FABC Office of Social Communication, I see this Plenary Assembly as more than an important ecclesial gathering. It is a moment for the Churches of Asia to listen to one another, discern together, and renew their shared missionary commitment. Through the ministry of communication, we hope to accompany this journey of faith and make its reflections and fruits accessible to Catholics across the continent and beyond, fostering greater communion, participation, and mission. (Fides News Agency, 8/7/2026)
*Executive Secretary of the FABC Office of Social Communication
