WHAT IS A CURSILLO WEEKEND?
Cursillo is a Spanish word meaning short course. A Cursillo en Cristiandad is a short course in Christian living. As a movement, Cursillo had its origin in the late 1940's on the island of Majorca, Spain. It was developed as a means of reviving Christian commitment.
WHO MAY TAKE PART?
The Cursillo weekend is open to all emotionally mature and physically able adults: men and women, single and married, laity and clergy. Christians of all denominations are welcome.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT?
- An experience shared within a small, closely-knit group representing a wide variety of expressions within a unique Christian community.
- An informal atmosphere in which spiritual growth is possible and attainable through both fellowship and trust.
- A way of spiritual renewal through a new approach to teachings, Sacraments, devotions, and ministry.
- An opportunity to renew and expand a base in the faith, from which action in the individual's church and everyday life is encouraged.
- A more precise focus on our responsibility and mission in our Christian walk through this life.
- A continuing support system to nurture one another as we work to renew all things through Christ.
About 60 people attend the typical Cursillo weekend. This includes both the 'candidates' and the serving 'team'.
The 'candidates' are people from all walks of life. Many are eager for the enriching experience, some are initially just curious, while others, perhaps, are even apprehensive. Cursillo tries to meet each individual's needs during the weekend.
The leaders of the 'team' are the Rector or Rectora (lay persons) and the Spiritual Directors (clergy). Others, who have already experienced the Cursillo weekend, share with you through talks, discussions, food preparation, music and prayer.
Some of the topics of the talks (Rollos) during the weekend are:
The Call the be Fully Human
The Lay Person as the Church in the World
Christian Community in Action
The Christian Life
Obstacles to Living the Christian Life
WHAT ABOUT WORSHIP?
Meditations, Eucharist and devotional periods are an integral part of the weekend.
WHAT WILL I BE DOING ON THE WEEKEND?
- Listening to talks and participating in discussions.
- Reflecting on values and goals as a Christian.
- Communicating with God in prayer, both privately and with the entire community.
- Celebrating Christianity in joyful liturgies and song.
- Experiencing, in many different ways, true Christian love and genuine Christian community.
- Learning new ways to express Christian values in the world.
WHAT IS EXPECTED OF ME?
- To be open and willing to respond to what you experience, to share your feelings with others, and to allow them to share theirs with you.
- To make a genuine effort to discover where you are and where you can grow.
- To feel secure in the knowledge that you are accepted where you are and as you are.
- To be curious and thirsty enough to acknowledge a need to totally commit a weekend of your life to Jesus Christ.
WHAT DO I DO NEXT?
Every applicant must have a sponsor who has participated in a previous Cursillo weekend. The sponsor provides encouragement and assistance in making arrangements for transportation and any other needs that may arise. The sponsor and a priest, pastor or minister must sign your application. The application will be reviewed and your sponsor will be notified of the status.
WHERE CAN I GET A SPONSOR?
If you know of someone who has attended a Cursillo weekend, ask him or her to be your sponsor. If not, you can send a message via the web site or you can send a request to the governing body of Cursillo on the San Francisco/San Mateo peninsula at:
San Francisco/San Mateo Secretariat
P.O. Box 5615
San Mateo CA 94401
Cursillo is an experience of Christian Community, which celebrates the Lord's message. As the Cursillo weekend forms, the focus is on you and your relationship with Christ and others. It can be a demanding and a very rewarding experience that can make a significant impact on your life. Cursillo is not intended to provide treatment for personal problems or marital difficulties. Those who may be experiencing an emotional crisis should delay attending until these difficulties have been resolved.
