Ecclesia in Asia

A missionary with the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, he has been serving the poor near Seoul for over 30 years, in a highly competitive society that refuses to see the least.

The Archbishop of Beijing expected in a few days to return Chow's visit to the Chinese capital in April. Words to the diocese from the new cardinal after his journey to Rome for the Consistory and Synod: "Even in Hong Kong we are divided: let us take a few steps to reach out to those who are far from us, both in the physical and digital worlds."

The first session of the Synodal Assembly ended with a vote of the synthesis report. On many issues, the latter highlights the convergences, open questions and proposals that emerged during the work in Rome. Below, we publish chapter 5 on the relationship between mission and inculturation, which is a major issue for many Churches in Asia. The typically Asian image of "taking off one's shoes" to meet others is offered to the whole world.

On the eve of the Assembly that opens in Rome and where two of its own bishops will also be present, the Catholic Church in Vietnam sent a message to the faithful indicating the theme of enhancing the mission of the laity in 2024. "In Vietnam, due to historical circumstances, combined with difficult living conditions and a misunderstanding of doctrine, some live their faith passively. But the heritage of faith transmitted by the blood of the martyrs is entrusted to each of us".

The Royal University of Phnom Penh, Missions Étrangères de Paris, and local historians are behind the conference, which drew young researchers interested in a history that began five centuries ago, well before the French protectorate. For Fr Legnani, from PIME, it was important to remember all those who share “history and suffering with the Khmer people.”

In Pagadian, South Zamboanga province, the foundation promoted by St. Columba missionaries celebrated its anniversary of supporting poor families with children with disabilities. Educational pathways, home care and help with job placement the activities brought forward. But above all, the elimination of prejudice.

Back from the WYD in Lisbon, the Asian nun chosen by Pope Francis among the president delegates of the October Assembly tells AsiaNews about her expectations for the Synod: "Living in a country where we Christians are a minority has taught me to listen, to try to understand, to pray to understand where the Spirit is guiding our conscience. And to understand that before anything else we must love everyone like Jesus." Archbishop of Tokyo Msgr. Kikuchi: "Proud and grateful for the role assigned to you."

Sister Marie and Sister Teresa brought new life to the congregation of the Lovers of the Cross in Kompong Cham after the fall of the brutal Khmer Rouge regime. As they say in their testimony, their journey began in the 1990s, and went hand in hand with the country’s reconstruction.

Sukhen Dulal Tigga, 32, an ethnic Oraon, is “a gift” who “will represent our diocese in the world," said Bishop Tudu. “We shall offer him our support with prayers and love.” The missionaries’ “selfless life attracted me,” the new priest told AsiaNews. His aunt too “was a source of inspiration”.

Manila-based theologian and executive secretary of the Fabc's Office for Doctrinal Issues was chosen by Pope Francis among the ten Asian non-bishops who will take part in the October assembly. She tells AsiaNews of her impressions of the synodal journey, "It has energized me, because I see the conversion and reshaping of the Church toward a more missionary orientation."

The account of an Indian Salesian missionary ministering among the just 1,500 Mongolian Catholics who will welcome the pontiff from Aug. 31 to Sept. 4. "Our people feel privileged, honored and blessed by this gift. Let us pray that it will bring steps forward, facilitating the service that the Church offers to all in education and charity."

Bishop Stephen Chow presided over the ordination. Cardinal Wu laid on his hands on the first in July 1997, a few days after Hong Kong returned to China. Now some 30 deacons are active in the city, an important sign for all of Asia, the continent with the lowest number of permanent deacons.