It is not easy to explain Cursillo, not because it is a secret organization, but because behind the mystery, is God. No one can fully explain how God touches each person in His special/unique way throughout the various elements of the Cursillo Movement. One definition states, The Cursillo Movement is a movement of the Church which by means of its own method makes it possible for people to live what is fundamental for being a Christian, and to live it together; it helps people discover and fulfill their personal vocations, and it promotes the creation of core groups of Christians who leaven their environments with the Gospel.

History

Cursillo began in the 1940’s, when a group of men dedicated themselves to bringing the young men of their city, Mallorca, Spain, to know Christ better. Under the direction of Bishop Hervas they developed a method to help renew the Church. The Spanish word Cursillo (KER-SEE-O) meaning a short course, is often associated with the 3-Day weekend, which is only one aspect of the Cursillo Movement. They also developed a follow-up program so the initial enthusiasm would continue. It is the fundamental teachings of Jesus as lived with other Christians.

A Work Of The Church

“Since it is a movement of the Church, the Cursillo Movement has the same apostolic purpose as the Church herself. And the Church as Pope Paul VI told us, exists to evangelize.” Cursillo is one of the many movements in the Church. It is approved by the Pope as well as local bishops. Cursillo is a worldwide movement and a member of the International Catholic Organizations of the Pontifical Council for the Laity in Rome. 

The 3-Day Weekend

Approximately three dozen men or women (the weekends are not co-ed) meet from Thursday evening until Sunday evening with a team of two priests (or one priest and a deacon or a nun) and from fifteen to thirty laypeople. Fifteen talks are given, ten by laypersons and five by the spiritual directors. The talks lead to lively discussions in small groups. The three days are interspersed with music, sharing, laughter, prayer, reflection and silence as you discover what it means to say, "We are the body of Christ." Mass is celebrated each day (except Thursday) as well as morning and evening prayers. There is nothing dull about a Cursillo weekend. It is a joyous workshop in the fundamentals of our beautiful Catholic faith where everyone learns by experiencing a living community. It is an encounter with Jesus Christ.