“Leaders Are Called to Cultivate Open Hearts,” Cardinal Filipe Neri at AINACS

Goa, October 8, 2025 – Addressing over a thousand Catholic educators, Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão of Goa and Daman urged them to embrace a model of leadership rooted in the Gospel and guided by the principles of synodality. He emphasised that “synodal leadership is about communion, participation, and mission,” encouraging leaders to walk together in dialogue and collaboration.

At the National Convention of the All India Association of Catholic Schools (AINACS) in Arpora, Cardinal Ferrão presented a compelling vision of Catholic educational leadership, describing it as a style of service marked by inclusiveness, discernment, and stewardship — reflecting the compassionate and wise guidance of Jesus, the Good Shepherd.

Synodal Leadership as Inclusiveness

“Synodal leadership is about communion, participation, and mission,” Cardinal Ferrão said, stressing that leaders should invite all stakeholders — teachers, students, parents, alumni, and staff — to walk together in dialogue and collaboration. He urged schools to move beyond rigid bureaucracies and foster relationships built on trust and shared responsibility.

“Leaders are called to cultivate open hearts, encouraging dialogue, respecting diverse perspectives, and building a community where everyone feels valued.”

Synodal Leadership as Discernment

Cardinal Ferrão emphasised that discernment is central to synodal leadership. Drawing from the Gospel, he described it as a patient, prayerful approach, attentive to God’s will rather than personal ambition.

“Leaders are called not to rush but to reflect, listen deeply, and act in God’s timing and wisdom.”

True discernment, he added, allows educators to respond effectively to the evolving needs of their communities, making decisions that nurture growth, understanding, and holistic development.

Synodal Leadership as Service

The third dimension, stewardship, frames leaders as caretakers, not owners, of the educational mission. Drawing from the Gospel of Luke, Cardinal Ferrão highlighted that students are gifts entrusted to educators, deserving care, guidance, and love.

“Stewardship is about service, compassion, and patience, prioritising the holistic development of each student.”

A Call to Action

Cardinal Ferrão reminded participants that education is sacred work shaping both mind and character. Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, he emphasised the need for selfless dedication in education. Summarising his message, he urged Catholic educators to embody synodal leadership by being inclusive, discerning, and stewardship-oriented — guiding students and colleagues as “pilgrims of hope” in the Jubilee Year.

“Leaders Are Called to Cultivate Open Hearts,” Cardinal Filipe Neri at AINACS

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