The Cursillo Movement, like Marriage Encounter, had its origin in
Spain. It has spread to many countries throughout the world. The word
itself, Cursillo (pronounced kur-see-yo), is a Spanish word meaning "little" or
"short course." A Cursillo is a 3-day encounter with Christ that can
literally change your life. Traditionally, it begins on a Thursday evening and
concludes on the following Sunday. During these 3 days, the participants live
together, listen to talks given by priests and laity, and participate in activities that
promote formation of a faith-filled community. Thus begins the Fourth Day.
Each person experiences God's unique touch differently throughout the various
elements of the Cursillo Movement.
As one lives their Cursillo (the days, weeks, months, and years after making a
Cursillo), its momentum is continued by one's participation with other Cursillistas
(others who have experienced a Cursillo) in monthly meetings called "Ultreyas"
and weekly reunions with a smaller group of the Cursillo community.
Ultreyas serve as a means of growth in understanding and zeal within the Christian
community.
Weekly reunions encourage individual growth in spirituality, holiness, and
evangelization that lead to spiritual improvement and becoming active in the Christian
Apostolate.
Evangelization is a very natural act of being Christ-like within each of one's daily
activities. Its method and technique provide the tools, mentality, strength, and
support of the community spirit of Cursillistas to make this type of evangelization
possible. When this is realized, the power, beauty, and joy of the Cursillo Movement
will become understood.
If you are interested, speak with someone who has already made a Cursillo. To
find out who in our parish has made a Cursillo, please ask the pastor.
