Cursillo Movement
Born out of a spirit of renewal in the Church that preceded the Second Vatican Council, the Cursillo Movement originated in Spain in the early 1940's; therefore, many Cursillo terms are of Spanish origin. Bishop Juan Hervas of Mallorca, and a young layman, Eduardo Bonin, were the two primary leaders of the first Cursillos in Christianity. The first official Cursillo, as we know it today, was held in 1949, and has spread throughout the world, reaching the United States in 1957 at Waco, Texas. Cursillo is now present in 60 countries and 800 dioceses. The first Cursillo in the Lincoln Diocese was held in July 1965 at Pius X High School in Lincoln. Since then numerous Cursillo weekends have been held.
A Cursillo is an encounter with Christ. Cursillo (pronounced kur-see-yo) is a Spanish word meaning "little" or "short course." It begins on a Thursday evening and ends the following Sunday night. During those three days those attending live and work together listening to talks given by priests and laity. They also share the Eucharist and pray together.
The "after" activity of the Cursillo is known as the "fourth day." During this time perseverance is important. The community spirit is continued after the three days through the "ultreya" or reunions of the community. These are available monthly as a means of growth in understanding and zeal within the Christian community. Reunions of smaller groups of friends are also available.
The goal of the Cursillo movement is to make Christ the prime influence in society. The primary objectives of the Cursillo Movement are to develop in adult Christians a consciousness of their power and mission to become leaders in the work of Christian renewal, and to sustain them as they provide a Christian leaven in civic, social and economic life. This "Christianizing of environments" is the mission of the Cursillo Movement.
Cursillo Movement of the Diocese of Lincoln, NE, Webpage
Very Rev. Mark E. Seiker
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