Cursillo Weekend
The main components of the Episcopal Cursillo Ministry include building relationships, promoting evangelism, and fostering reconciliation at home, within the parish, in the community, and globally.
We gather a varied group of individuals to explore the diverse ways of worshiping and to enhance our understanding of our Church. Lay leaders, alongside two or three clergy serving as spiritual guides, run the Weekend. The Cursillo program assumes that participants already have a solid foundation in their faith. It is not designed as a conversion experience but rather as a way to enrich and deepen their existing beliefs. Frequently, Cursillo offers fresh perspectives on our faith and encourages ministry participation among lay individuals.
There are two formats for the Weekend: the traditional three-day schedule and the newer recent two-day schedule. In the Diocese of Texas, we use the three-day format. The first evening is dedicated to meditations and discussions, followed by a period of silent reflection until after the worship service the next morning. During this time, participants are organized into table or family groups for the Weekend. The days are filled with talks and group discussions focusing on the principles of Grace, the Sacraments, and the Cursillo tripod consisting of Piety, Study, and Action. Each Weekend includes opportunities for group meditations, fellowship, singing, enjoyable meals, personal time for meditation and prayer, and daily celebrations of the Eucharist.
Everyone coming back from the Weekend is encouraged to take an active role in the Jesus Movement. Click here to gain further insights into the Jesus Movement within the Episcopal Church. This period following the Weekend is referred to as the “Fourth Day” and lasts for the entirety of our lives. The Cursillo community provides continuous support for Christian ministry and living. Small groups, known as Reunions, are established to meet regularly, fostering spiritual development, accountability in sharing Christ’s love in different settings, and an ongoing journey of spiritual growth and renewal.