On January 19, 2026, at the Apostolic Palace, Pope Leo XIV met with leaders of the Neocatechumenal Way. He praised their missionary zeal, charisma, and contributions to evangelization and catechesis, but centered his message on two main requirements: unity in the Church and respect for freedom of conscience. The Pope stressed that all Christians are incorporated into Christ and the Church through Baptism, and that charisms must serve the common good rather than be lived in isolation or as something superior. He warned against attitudes of elitism or exclusion and urged the Neocatechumenal Way to be witnesses of unity, exercising a mission that is particular but not exclusive, always in communion with the rest of the Church. He explicitly called them to integrate fully into ordinary parish pastoral life and to remain in close communion with bishops and priests, advancing with joy, humility, and openness as builders of communion. Pope Leo XIV also emphasized interior freedom, recalling that “where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” He cautioned that evangelization and catechesis must avoid coercion, rigidity, and moralism, which can generate guilt and fear rather than true spiritual liberation. The good done by the Way, he said, must always respect each person’s life journey and conscience. Finally, he expressed gratitude for their missionary work, especially to families who leave their ordinary lives to go on mission, often to difficult and distant places, helping rekindle faith and awaken joy in many communities. He concluded by encouraging them, imparting his blessing, and invoking the intercession of the Virgin Mary.