General
In the Diocese of Erie, a Cursillo weekend consists of 55 hours (3 days) of “Special Time” devoted to learning more about living a Christian Life. Some Cursillo weekends take place in Erie while other weekends rotate to our out-of-town locations in Elk/Cameron, Mercer, and Crawford counties. Generally, Cursillo weekends alternate men’s weekends and women’s weekends.
The Team
The Team consists of 12-15 lay people and three Spiritual Directors (Priest and Deacon). The Spiritual Directors and team members are present throughout the weekend and will give talks each day.
Candidates
People attending the weekend are “making their Cursillo” and are called “Candidates” until the weekend is completed when they become “Cursillistas”.
Schedule:
Thursday: Cursillo Team Only
Thursday evening is reserved for the Cursillo team that will be leading the weekend. The team members, advisors and spiritual directors have met three times previously in preparation for this weekend. Thursday night is a time to review the final details and spiritually prepare for a successful weekend.
Friday: Candidates Arrive
On Friday, candidates arrive and share a continental breakfast with their sponsors and the team. After breakfast, sponsors depart, and the weekend begins with an opening talk by the Rector, the lay person in charge of the weekend, to welcome the new candidates and give a general idea of what they should expect.
Friday through Sunday
The atmosphere of a Cursillo weekend is designed as a retreat. The weekend involves Liturgy, prayers, talks, activities, and reflection. Candidates participate in activities that summarize the talks or create a poster that reflects the theme of the talk. There is time for conversation with the Spiritual Directors and for reconciliation each day.
The prayer associated with the Cursillo weekend is done throughout the Diocese during every Cursillo. People gather for Holy Hour in support of the candidates and the Team members. Others make different sacrifices to support the candidates through Palanca (a combination of prayer, sacrifice or works of mercy.)
Candidates enjoy prepared hot meals served by Cursillistas (people who have previously made Cursillo.) To create a joyful atmosphere during mealtime, Team members will sing and tell jokes.
The Sunday closing of every Cursillo is marked by a Holy Hour attended by sponsors and Cursillistas. During the closing there is much sharing and joy exchanged among all who attend. The meaning of Cursillo to people in their lives is often shared by the inspiration of all who hear these words. The word of God, joyful music, and fellowship create a closer relationship with God and the community.
After the Sunday program, new Cursillistas depart to continue living their “4th day”.