Penang: In a deeply reflective and forward-looking address, Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, Pro-Prefect for the Section of First Evangelization at the Dicastery for Evangelization, urged the Church across Asia to “take a different way,” drawing inspiration from the transformative journey of the Magi. His message was delivered to hundreds of delegates gathered for the Great Pilgrimage of Hope, a major continental congress organized by the FABC Office for Evangelization.
Speaking on the theme “Going a Different Way as Renewed Pilgrims of Hope,” Cardinal Tagle invited the Asian Church to adopt fresh approaches to mission, renewal, and witness in a rapidly changing world. His keynote marked the spiritual and thematic highlight of the congress, which opened Thursday morning at the Light Hotel in Penang.
The gathering began with warm words of welcome from Cardinal Sebastian Francis, Bishop of Penang, who presided over the inaugural Holy Mass. A symbolic lighting of the inaugural candle followed, led by Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, President of both the FABC and the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), alongside other dignitaries.
Malaysia’s Minister of Unity, YAB Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, addressed the assembly, commending the congress for fostering unity and interreligious understanding. The opening message was delivered by Bishop George Pallipparambil, S.D.B., Chairman of the FABC Office for Evangelization and Bishop of Miao, who emphasized the congress’s mission in rekindling hope across Asia.
Mr. Manjo Sunny, Executive Secretary of the FABC Office for Evangelization, guided delegates through the conference logistics, setting the tone for a smooth and engaging four-day programme.
The Great Pilgrimage of Hope has drawn an impressive 773 delegates from 29 countries, making it one of the largest recent assemblies of the Asian Catholic Church.
Participants include:
• 104 bishops
• 155 priests
• 74 religious sisters
• 8 deacons
• 422 lay leaders
Their presence underscores the diversity and vitality of the Church in Asia, united under a single call to deepen hope and missionary discipleship.
India stands out prominently, represented by 76 delegates, the largest national contingent a testament to the vibrant and growing Catholic community within the country.
Penang, often celebrated as the “Pearl of the Orient,” provided a fitting backdrop for this milestone event. The congress, running from November 27 to November 30, seeks to chart new paths for evangelization rooted in dialogue, compassion, and courage.
Cardinal Tagle’s appeal to “go a different way” resonated strongly with participants, framing the pilgrimage not merely as a conference but as a transformative journey a call for the Asian Church to walk boldly, humbly, and creatively in the footsteps of hope.
The coming days will feature discussions, reflections, and collaborative exchanges aimed at shaping the future of evangelization across the continent.