Delivering an insightful session on “Transparency and Accountability for a Synodal Church in Asia” on September 24, the second day of the ongoing FABC Bishops’ Seminar in Thailand, Fr. Clarence Devadass emphasized that transparency and accountability are vital to building a truly synodal Church.
The weeklong seminar on Synadolity is being held at the Baan Phu Waan Pastoral Training Center in Sampran, Thailand, from September 22 to 26, 2025.
“Learning to be accountable to the community is a cornerstone of Pope Francis’ synodal reform of Church governance,” Fr. Devadass said, reminding participants that accountability is not optional but a demand of authentic discipleship.
Speaking against the backdrop of widespread corruption in Asia, Fr. Devadass, a Malaysian priest who serves as one of the associate secretaries to the FABC, stressed that the Church must remain a prophetic voice. “The Church has consistently called on governments and institutions to uphold integrity, transparency, and accountability,” he affirmed.
He also addressed growing concerns about credibility within the Church itself. “More today than before, many people have questioned the transparency and accountability of the Catholic Church due to historical, structural, and ethical concerns,” he acknowledged.
Drawing from the Synod’s Final Document, he highlighted that transparency, accountability, and evaluation are indispensable for decision-making and mission. He added that accountability must extend beyond responding to abuse cases: “These practices must also shape pastoral planning, leadership appointments, and methods of evangelization.”
Fr. Devadass concluded by pointing to the spiritual dimension of accountability. “Transparency presupposes vulnerability. While often seen as a weakness, vulnerability actually promotes trust, growth, and human connection,” he said.
He invited participants to reflect on how dioceses, parishes, and institutions can foster a culture of accountability that strengthens the Church’s synodal journey in Asia.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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