Here is a presentation I recently provided to the Voice of Laity, a group of laypeople in New Mexico wherein I analyzed 13 aspects of the movement where it exhibits authoritarian control. I employed Steven Hassan’s BITE model and Influence Continuum frameworks to discuss how the Neocatechumenal Way manipulates behavior, information, thoughts, and emotions through practices like public confession of sins, financial exploitation, and separation from family.
During the presentation, I covered elements from the first four stages of the Neocatechumenal Way, including a cult of personality surrounding Kiko Arguello, the use of eisegeis, the development of a persecution complex, individual scrutinies, the rite of salt and tithing. I also addressed questions from the audience about leadership structure, Vatican approval, and reasons people leave the movement.
Here is a related presentation that I made to the same group:
