Thailand: Hong Kong Cardinal Calls for Patience in Achieving Synodality

Preaching at Mass on September 24 during the ongoing FABC Bishops’ Seminar on Synodality in Thailand, Cardinal Stephen Chow of Hong Kong highlighted synodality as a journey that requires humility, patience, and deep trust in God.

The cardinal described synodality as a “communal confession,” urging bishops and the faithful to walk humbly with one another as God’s people. While acknowledging frustrations in some quarters, he reminded participants that “cultural changes don’t happen overnight.”

“Our emphasis on being ‘good Catholics’ has sometimes stopped us from asking questions,” he said, noting that in today’s troubled world, many seek rigid, black-and-white certainties. Yet discernment, he insisted, remains central to the synodal path.

Reflecting on Jesus’ command to his disciples to “go,” Cardinal Chow emphasized reliance not on material securities but on God’s providence. “We are loved, and this is the synodal experience too. Because of this love, we can also have hope,” he affirmed.

The cardinal cautioned against impatience and superficial change, reminding the Church that building trust takes time. “It is not about accomplishment and moving on, but about staying and building relationships. Slow down. Trust requires time and respect,” he said.

Acknowledging the pain and suffering present in today’s world, Cardinal Chow underlined that the call to a synodal Church must be rooted in solidarity with those who suffer. “A new way of being Church should affect the pain of those who suffer,” he concluded.

Bishops, Church leaders, and experts from across Asia are gathered at the Baan Phu Waan Pastoral Training Center in Sampran, Thailand, for the weeklong seminar on Synodality, running from September 22 to 26, 2025.

The gathering, held under the theme of fostering “conversion of relations, processes, and bonds,” seeks to deepen the Church’s understanding and practice of synodality across the continent.