Pope Leo XIV thanks the Neocatechumenal Way for their global witness, urging them to foster unity, avoid rigidity, and live their mission with joy.
Newsroom (19/01/2026 Gaudium Press ) At the Vatican on Monday, January 19, 2026, Pope Leo XIV met with members and leaders of the Neocatechumenal Way, urging them to continue their mission as “builders and witnesses of communion.” Addressing hundreds gathered in the Hall of Blessings, including bishops, priests, and lay members, the Pope expressed gratitude for their ongoing witness and global evangelizing work.
“Strive forward in joy and humility, without closing yourselves off, as builders and witnesses of communion,” he told the group. “The Church accompanies you, supports you, and is grateful for what you do.”
Founded in Spain during the 1960s by Kiko Argüello and Carmen Hernández, the Neocatechumenal Way is an itinerary of Catholic formation designed to help believers rediscover the meaning of baptism and renew their faith through community life. Today, the movement is present in 139 countries, with more than 20,000 communities worldwide. Its international leadership team—Kiko Argüello, María Ascensión Romero, and Father Mario Pezzi—joined the audience with the Pope.
Reawakening the Joy of Faith
Pope Leo XIV highlighted the missionary energy that defines the Neocatechumenal Way, describing it as “a precious contribution to the life of the Church.” He praised especially the families who, “responding to the inner prompting of the Spirit, leave the security of ordinary life and set out on mission, even to distant and difficult territories, with the sole desire to proclaim the Gospel and be witnesses of God’s love.”
He noted the work of itinerant missionary teams—families, catechists, and priests—who share in the Church’s mission by reigniting the faith of both those unfamiliar with Christianity and baptized Christians who have lost touch with their faith. Echoing Pope Francis’ 2015 remarks, Pope Leo affirmed their role in rekindling “the fire of the Gospel where it seemed to be dying out.”
“You have accompanied many individuals and communities,” he said, “helping them rediscover the beauty of knowing Jesus and fostering their spiritual growth and commitment to witness.”
Be Witnesses of Unity
While recognizing the movement’s dynamism, Pope Leo also invited the Neocatechumenal Way to practice discernment and self-reflection. He warned against potential pitfalls common in spiritual life and reminded them that baptism unites all believers in Christ’s single body.
“Charisms must always be placed at the service of the kingdom of God and of the one Church of Christ,” he explained. “No gift of God is more important than others—except charity, which perfects and harmonizes them all.”
For this reason, the Pope urged members to be “witnesses of this unity,” ensuring that the Way’s activities strengthen communion within the broader Church.
Avoid Rigidity and Moralism
Acknowledging the uniqueness of the Neocatechumenal Way’s mission, Pope Leo emphasized that its charism must always flourish in harmony with other gifts in the Church. “Your mission is unique, but not exclusive,” he said. “Your charism is specific, but it bears fruit in communion with the other gifts present in the life of the Church.”
He insisted that their work remain firmly integrated within parish life and ecclesial structures, promoting collaboration with priests and bishops. Quoting from St. Paul’s Second Letter to the Corinthians, the Pope reminded the assembly that “where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
Therefore, he urged those engaged in evangelization to remain free from “constraint, rigidity, and moralism,” warning that such tendencies can create guilt and fear rather than “inner liberation.”
In conclusion, Pope Leo XIV thanked the Neocatechumenal Way for its “joyful witness” and dedication to the Church and the world. He imparted his apostolic blessing and encouraged them “to continue with enthusiasm,” renewing their commitment to unity, humility, and love in service of the Gospel.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican News
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