Cursillo

(From June, 2001 Nativity Tidings newsletter)

(This is the fourth and final installment of a multi-part series on Cursillo. Part of the information comes from a brochure and part comes from members of our congregation who have participated.)

What happens after Cursillo?

Participants, returning from the weekend with a renewed commitment to work for Christ are encouraged to look for opportunities in their home churches and communities to follow the great commission of Christ: that we should be in the world to make disciples of all people, ministering God's redemptive gifts of love and grace. Cursillo provides a community of friends who provide each other strength and support in these efforts, so that each person may grow in faith and develop his or her own special gifts of ministry.

This community meets in two types of groups:

Group reunions — a small group of people who meet regularly, (often weekly) for mutual encouragement and support through prayer, study, and action.

Ultreyas (Diocesan, Regional or Parish meetings) — a larger group of people who meet (often monthly) to share their Christian walk and to encourage each other in their efforts to evangelize their environments.

The above paragraphs are from the Cursillo brochure that was published by the diocese. Below are some comments from our Nativity members who have participated.

Marcia Simington: “What follows is what is known as grouping. Some meet on a regular basis to discuss how they have progressed in their walk with God. How often is up to the group, but weekly is the best. There is a sense of community among them and they all work together.”

Deb Teahan: “There are groupings to help you with the “fourth day” which is the “rest of your life.” Then there are the Ultreyas, regional gatherings, that help you strengthen your Cursillo experience and live a Christian life.”

Ros Hall: “You meet with people to lift each other up and hold each other accountable. Everybody gets a card that covers such things as prayer, sharing, study and action. It's a real good support system. it gives you the tools to take the light of Christ into the world.”

Terri Teigland: “Cursillo gave me the time to stir up my faith. I had time to reflect and study more and not let things get stagnant.”

Nicki Vance: “I got more involved with church and sharing my Cursillo experience with others.”