What is Cursillo?

Cursillo (short course) in Christianity is an apostolic movement of the Roman Catholic Church. It was founded in Majorca, Spain by a group of laymen in 1944, while they were refining a technique to train pilgrimage Christian leaders. The objective of the Cursillo movement is to make Christian community possible in neighborhoods, parishes, work situations and other places where people live the greater part of their lives. A Cursillo in Christianity begins with an encounter with oneself. The Cursillo Weekend (three-day course) is an opportunity to examine and celebrate yourself, your relationship with Christ, and your relationship with the Christian community. Through a Cursillo, you will be introduced to a support group that helps one another face the challenge of Christianizing his/her environment. The Cursillo Weekend, therefore, is not an end in itself, but a starting point for the rest of your life.

Cursillo starts with a three-day retreat to examine and celebrate yourself, your relationship with Christ, and your relationship with the Christian community. We begin with a silent retreat Thursday evening through Friday morning. For the rest of the weekend, you’ll hear short talks on a variety of topics from faith perspectives. During the days, you’ll discuss the talks and your impressions with the same small group. In the evenings, each group summarizes it discussion for the other tables.

We also offer meditation and reconciliation time as well as community meals. Two spiritual directors, at least on of them a pries, will be on the team and present throughout the weekend. And there’s a lot of music and singing – if you have an instrument, bring it along!

Throughout the weekend, your experiences will bring you closer to knowing yourself and Christ and the Christian community.

Men and women have separate retreats because the way we communicate is different. This is a safe but challenging weekend. We strive to provide an environment that helps you to grow in Christ’s love.

For more information concerning The Holy Family Cursillo community Contact Emelda August or call 703-670-0356 or Sue Jones or call 703-670-5181.