What is Cursillo?

Cursillo is …

‘A movement of the Church providing a method by which Christians are empowered to grow through prayer, study and action and enabled to share God’s love with everyone.’

Cursillo began in Spain as a way of transforming a society which was without Christ into one that was centered on Him after the Spanish Civil War. After reflection and prayer, it was decided to stimulate the Christian faith in young people through a great pilgrimage to the shrine of St James in Compostella. It was to be an opportunity to share and to pray, to deepen faith and commitment to Christ. Group leaders were to be prepared through short courses (Cursillos) which dealt with the knowledge of faith, the nature of leadership and Catholic Action and the organization of the pilgrimage. 70,000 young people took part in the pilgrimage which was a great success. The movement spread from Spain to the rest of the world.

Weekends?

A Cursillo weekend offers an opportunity to step away from the demands of everyday life and spend time with God and others in a relaxed and welcoming setting.

Together we worship, pray, listen, reflect and share. As we hear one another’s stories and explore our own faith journeys, we often discover fresh encouragement, renewed confidence and a deeper awareness of God’s presence in our lives.

Rooted in prayer and God’s grace, Cursillo creates space to be yourself, to ask questions, and to grow.

And along the way, there is plenty of friendship, laughter and fun.

Fourth Day

The Cursillo weekend is just the beginning. The “Fourth Day” is the name given to the ongoing journey of faith and discipleship that follows.

After the weekend, many people join a Reunion Group. These are small groups of people who have attended a Cursillo weekend and who meet regularly to share, pray, encourage one another and support each other in Christian living.

There are also larger diocesan gatherings called Ultreyas. These are opportunities to worship together, renew friendships, hear one another’s stories and encourage one another in faith.

When I went on Cursillo several years ago I summed it up by saying that it was as though someone had rolled Christmas, Easter and birthdays all together and made me the star guest!

God’s Spirit has worked powerfully through the Cursillo movement in many countries and for many years, to transform lives and give people a new sense of God’s love and direction in their lives. I am delighted that many in Durham are able to share in this way of building one another up in faith and hope.

Bishop Tom Wright

Glossary

Sponsor

Someone who supports you before and after your Cursillo weekend.

Reunion Group

A small group that meets regularly for friendship, prayer and encouragement.

Ultreya

A larger gathering of Cursillistas from across the Diocese.

Fourth Day

Life after the Cursillo weekend and the continuing journey of faith.

Palanca

Prayer and practical support offered for others.

Cursillista

Someone who has attended a Cursillo weekend.

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