The leaders of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences released the 40-page “Bangkok Document” on 15th March during an online ceremony. It is a compilation of the discussions held during the federation’s general conference in the Thai capital last October.
Churches in Asia need to play an active role in addressing pressing realities including migrants, refugees, Indigenous peoples, climate changes, family issues, women and youth, Asian bishops said in their continental synod document.
Filipino Bishop Pablo Virgilio David of Kalookan, the coordinator of the documentation committee, said the “Bangkok Document” is divided into five parts based on the biblical narrative of the three Magi-journeying together, looking, discerning, offering gifts and making new pathways.
The synod identified 10 challenges that require special attention: accompanying migrants, refugees, and indigenous people, attention to family, gender issues, new women leadership roles in the Asian Church, youth, effective use of digital technology, an economy based on inclusive growth, care for common home, dialogue and reconciliation, and clergy formation.
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