A new book has been published that retraces the history and charism of the Neocatechumenal Way, a Christian movement that has been present in 138 countries for 60 years. The book, titled Neocatechumenal Way: 60 Years of Christian Initiation of Adults, was written by Fr Ezechiele Pasotti and published by Chirico. It details the movement's development from its beginnings in the shanty towns of Madrid in the 1960s to its current presence in over 20,000 communities worldwide.
The author, Fr Pasotti, draws on his decades of missionary and pastoral experience to present the essential stages of the Way's development and its relationship with five Popes. At the heart of the book is the Neocatechumenal Way's understanding of Christian initiation for adults and permanent Catholic formation. This understanding is rooted in the movement's community life, which is built around the "tripod" of Word, Liturgy, and Community, reflecting the teachings of the Second Vatican Council.
The book's English edition was translated by Fr Pietro Poggiali and edited by Dino Furgione, who is responsible for Southern Africa. According to Fr Furgione, the book is not just for members of the Neocatechumenal Way, but for the whole Church, so that it may give glory to God for the many vocations raised up in service of the new evangelisation. Fr Furgione emphasizes that the catechumenate is an instrument of evangelisation, personal conversion, and the formation of the Christian community.
The Neocatechumenal Way's rediscovery of Baptism is closely linked to evangelisation and mission. The movement's community life is designed to foster a sense of the Church, where individuals experience a living and powerful symbiosis between personal faith and ecclesial faith. As participants journey through the movement, they develop a deeper understanding of the Church, which is not reduced to a mere affiliation, but is internalised through their experiences.
The book offers a concise account of an ecclesial reality whose history has been marked by a profound experience of faith, forgiveness, communion, and mission. According to Fr Pasotti, the Neocatechumenal Way has been blessed with many vocations and has contributed significantly to the new evangelisation. The movement's presence in South Africa and around the world is a testament to its enduring impact.
The publication of this book is timely, as it coincides with the 60th anniversary of the Neocatechumenal Way's founding. The movement's growth and development over the years are a reflection of its commitment to Christian initiation and formation. As the Church continues to evolve, the Neocatechumenal Way remains a vital part of its mission to spread the Gospel and bring people closer to God.
The Southern Cross, a Catholic magazine in South Africa, has supported the publication of this book. The magazine's editor encourages readers to consider subscribing to their publication or becoming a Southern Cross Associate, as they continue to bring the Good News to their country. The Neocatechumenal Way's story is an inspiring example of how faith and community can come together to make a positive impact on the world.
Key points
- The Neocatechumenal Way has grown from its humble beginnings in Madrid to become a global movement with a presence in 138 countries.
- The book Neocatechumenal Way: 60 Years of Christian Initiation of Adults offers a concise account of the movement's history and charism.
- The movement's community life is built around the "tripod" of Word, Liturgy, and Community, reflecting the teachings of the Second Vatican Council.
