Following a long and heartfelt discussion, the executive board unanimously decided to suspend the out-of-town Cursillo weekends until further notice. There were several factors that contributed to the discussion and decision. Without going into detail, we are asking everyone to read and reflect on the Mission Statement and Preamble of Erie Cursillo. The division within the movement due to the COVID situation has escalated to unacceptable levels. The consequence of these disagreements has contributed to this decision.The negative comments, disrespect, and judgments shared with the leadership do not coincide with the foundation that the movement is built on. As we all pray for an end to the challenges that Covid presents, we will continue to offer the weekends in Erie knowing that while some may protest the restrictions, the results of the weekends reinforce why we exist. Men’s #251 was a huge success and provided a spiritual lift to the candidates, team, and guests. As our numbers are growing for women’s #258, we are excited to witness the same grace.
MISSION STATEMENT The Erie Diocese Cursillo exists to ignite a passion for God. This method of spirituality inspires a personal relationship with Christ and the community of faith that is created from this encounter. PREAMBLE The purpose of Cursillo is to nourish Christian individuals with the knowledge of God's love and grace and to help them discover their personal mission in the world so they may enjoy the fullness of Christian life.
The Cursillo Movement develops a sense of Christian Community in families, neighborhoods, parishes, work situations, and other places where people live their lives. It provides the tools, mentality, strength, and support to live life in a Christ-Like manner. It teaches us how to evangelize as a natural act of being Christ-Like by the example of our daily lives.
Cursillo is primarily a lay movement. It is an instrument of renewal whereby Christianity can live and grow in today's world. It does not propose a new type of spirituality but teaches and demonstrates a method through which one's spirituality can be strengthened, lived and shared in all areas of one's environment. The Cursillo Movement in conjunction with the Department of Faith Formation of the Diocese of Erie assists people in their response to Jesus' desire for a relationship with His people by helping them make a joyful and authentic response to Him through all stages of life. The Erie Diocese Cursillo Movement pursues three purposes or objectives:
To provide a channel for living what is fundamental for being a Christian, a progressive conversion of the person, and a complete change of mind and heart (metanoia).
To foster a development of Christianity in society by means of living and sharing what is fundamental for being Christian (the love of God and neighbor).
To help one discover and fulfill one’s personal vocation in regard to:
Friendship with Christ
Community with our brothers and sisters
Apostolic responsibility
The goal of the Cursillo Movement is to help us become the Good News, and by our actions, be evangelical in our daily lives. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
COVID-19 Prayer of Solidarity
For all who have contracted coronavirus, we pray for care and healing. For those who are particularly vulnerable, we pray for safety and protection. For all who experience fear or anxiety, we pray for peace of mind and spirit. For affected families who are facing difficult decisions between food on the table or public safety, we pray for policies that recognize their plight. For those who do not have adequate health insurance, we pray that no family will face financial burdens alone. For those who are afraid to access care due to immigration status, we pray for recognition of the God-given dignity of all. For our brothers and sisters around the world, we pray for shared solidarity. For public officials and decisionmakers, we pray for wisdom and guidance. Father, during this time may your Church be a sign of hope, comfort and love to all. Grant peace. Grant comfort. Grant healing. Be with us, Lord. Amen. Justice, Peace & Human Development https://www.usccb.org/committees/communications/covid-19