The Cursillo movement began in Spain in 1948....thus the Spanish name. It translates to small course...and refers to a small course in Christian living. The full name is 'Cursillo de Christiandad'. That may seem very vague, but it is simply that.  It is a tried and true method that works similarly to a retreat. The Cursillo method helps individuals understand the calling of all Christians to be Christian leaders. This leadership may be exercised at work, in family life, social life, in leisure activities, and within the parish church.  Growing closer to Christ and bringing Christ to the world is not an easy task. It is a lifelong commitement. The Cursillo method, as a tool in fulfilling this commitment, is also ongoing.

The Cursillo method has 3 major components:
The Weekend: An opportunity to meet other individuals who are seeking to strengthen their faith through shared prayer, worship, singing, study, fellowship, discussion and new friendships to experience the reality of the gift of God's grace.  After work on Thursday, candidates arrive at the Cursillo Center in Fort Worth, where they remain through Sunday, lasting three full days. All physical and spiritual needs are met. Food is provided, sacraments are celebrated, all talks are scripture based and there is a member of clergy always present.

2 Support Methods
Group Reunion: A small group of Cursillistas (persons who have made the weekend) that meet on a regular basis for mutual encouragement and support in their efforts to stay close to Christ and serve Him.

Ultreya (Spanish - 'onward'): Meetings of larger groups of people who have either participated in a weekend or who might be interested in doing so. Here they share and witness to others in order to reinforce the Church and their own faith.

Who?: The typical candidate is an adult, practicing Catholic, who has realized a need to deepen their relationship with Christ and by making the weekend they come away with a stronger desire to find a way to contribute to their existing communities with newly learned methods. Cursillistas will be found in almost all ministries in the diocese... Eucharistic ministers, Renewal program, even the Deaconate. 

Application?: Each candidate needs a sponsor to assist them in preparation for the weekend and more importantly, assist them after the weekend. Often, a prospective sponsor from your parish may approach you about Cursillo. If you need a sponsor, ask someone who has attended a Cursillo weekend to tell you more about Cursillo. Pray about it, and if you conclude that you should go, ask them to sponsor you. The application for the weekend is in the Documents section to the left.

Cost?:The cost for the weekend is $150.00 which covers lodging, meals and materials. Financial aid is available to cover part or all of the cost.

There are separate weekends for men and women.
Upcoming dates:
  Women's weekend: October 3-6, 2024 (Thursday evening - Sunday afternoon)
  Men's weekend: October 24-27, 2024 (Thursday evening - Sunday afternoon)

For more information: https://fwdioc.org/cursillo-en