Cardinal Filipe Neri: “Synodality Heals Divisions in a Polarised World”

In an interview, Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) and the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC), reflected on the meaning of synodality in today’s fast-changing and polarised world. He shared his hopes for the future Church in Asia, the vital role of the laity and youth, and the blessings he has received throughout his long and distinguished ministry as a priest and bishop. According to him, synodality means walking together, listening deeply, and discerning God’s will as a community. In today’s polarised world, especially with social media and AI sometimes dividing us, synodality offers a way to rediscover unity. It calls us to pause amidst the noise, to create spaces where voices, especially those often unheard, are genuinely listened to. This kind of collective listening and openness can help heal divisions not only within the Universal Church, but also beyond.