Eklezjalność drogi neokatechumenalnej

Abstract

The neo-catechumen way was established in 1964 in Madrid by Kiko Argiiello and Carmen Hernandez as a proposal of permanent formation for adults. It was designed to bring them to conversion and join the evangelisation community of the Church. The ecclesiastic character of neocatechumenate is manifested in the total submission to church hierarchy, love for the liturgy, prayer, and the word of God. Through work in small groups neo-catechumens are gradually introduced to the fellowship of the parish and the diocese. A gift of the Way for the universal Church are also numerous vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life, e.g. diocesan, international, and missionary Seminars “Redemptoris Mater”, disseminated all over the world. They prepare priests from neo-catechumenate. The ecclesiastic character of the Way is testified by wandering catechists, priests, and families in mission who evangelise among non-Christians or in de-Christianised milieus. The canonical recognition of the ecclesiastic character is granted in the “Statutes of the Neo-catechumen Way,” affirmed by the Papal Board for the Lay People of 2002 for the period of five years. Neo-catechumen fellowships prudently directed by the hierarchy and catechists contribute to the renewal of pastoral care.