They very rarely come from within Asia itself. They are voices that surface now and again, only to fade away. The Synod itself is a proof. The fruits of this new form of collegiality, which has emerged above all under Pope John Paul II, are visible to all. This brotherhood between the Bishops is all to the advantage of the young Churches since it creates a sort of osmosis between the Churches, young and old, and the heart of the Church in Rome.
China is fast emerging as a focal point of Asia from the economic and geopolitical points of view.
Sad to say no mainland Chinese bishops are attending the Synod. Since the Synod is dedicated to the whole of Asia, the Fathers will certainly turn their attention to China and its people, the most numerous in the world. The Church in China is in a very complex situation. The Synod Fathers, by virtue of their collegiality, cannot fail to show their concern for the Church in China, and this is indispensable. I would like to complete and correct the first affirmation.