Pope Leo XIV has encouraged the Catholic Church in Asia to deepen its Eucharistic life, strengthen communion, and become a bridge-builder among peoples, cultures, and religions, in a video message addressed to participants of the 12th Plenary Assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC).

The assembly, taking place from July 20 to 26 in Jakarta, Indonesia, brings together Church leaders from across Asia to reflect on the Church’s mission and pastoral priorities in a continent marked by rich cultural and religious diversity, rapid social change, and many challenges.

The Eucharist as Source of Unity

Pope Leo emphasized the importance of the Eucharist as the source of Christian unity and mission. He invited the Church in Asia to promote a deeper appreciation of the Eucharistic mystery and to allow the celebration of the Eucharist to shape the lives of individuals, families, and communities.

The Holy Father stressed that communion with Christ must lead Christians to greater communion with one another. He encouraged the Church to become a visible sign of unity, reconciliation, and hope in societies affected by division, conflict, poverty, and inequality.

A Call to Dialogue and Bridge-Building

The Pope also called on the Church in Asia to continue its tradition of dialogue. In a continent where Christians live alongside followers of many religious and cultural traditions, he highlighted the importance of respectful encounter, mutual understanding, and cooperation for the common good.

“The Church is called to be a bridge-builder—bringing people together, promoting peace, and witnessing to the love of Christ through service to those in need,” the Pope said.

Synodality and Listening

Pope Leo encouraged the bishops to strengthen the spirit of synodality by listening attentively to one another and discerning together the guidance of the Holy Spirit. He underlined that the implementation of synodality should not depend only on directives or structures but should grow through prayer, participation, mutual listening, and shared responsibility within local Church communities.

Closeness to the Poor and Marginalized

The Holy Father also urged the Church to remain close to the poor, marginalized, and vulnerable. He called on Asian Catholics to respond with compassion to the needs of people affected by poverty, displacement, conflict, and social exclusion.

A Vision for the Future

The Pope’s message offered encouragement to the participants as they reflect on the future mission of the Church in Asia. He expressed his hope that the assembly would strengthen cooperation among the local Churches and inspire renewed commitment to evangelization, dialogue, and service.

The FABC has played an important role in promoting communion and collaboration among the Catholic Churches of Asia. Its pastoral vision has emphasized dialogue with cultures and religions, and with the poor, while encouraging the Church to respond to the realities and hopes of Asian peoples.

As the assembly continues its deliberations, the Pope’s message serves as a guiding light for the Church in Asia, calling it to deeper faith, greater unity, and more compassionate service in a rapidly changing world.

By RVA Sgaw Karen Service