Discover the Transformative Power of Cursillo
A journey of faith and friendshipA short course in Christianity that helps ordinary Catholics encounter Christ and live as His disciples every day
A short course in Christian Living
What is Cursillo?
Cursillo (pronounced kur-SEE-yo) means “short course” in Spanish. The movement—recognized by the Roman Catholic Church—began in Spain in the 1940s and has since spread worldwide as a lay movement within the Church. Its purpose is simple yet profound: to help ordinary people discover or renew their relationship with Jesus Christ and live as His disciples in daily life.
While “short course” is the literal translation, the experience is far more than that. Cursillo is an encounter with Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Explaining exactly what Cursillo is can be challenging—because at its heart, the “mystery” is God Himself. He touches each person in a unique way. For some, Cursillo is a complete turning point. For others, it is a powerful awakening. For still others, it is a deep enrichment of faith already lived.
Cursillo is not a retreat. It is a three-day encounter in Christian community marked by daily prayer, the celebration of the Sacraments, and talks given by priests, deacons, and laypeople. These talks explore life, the Catholic faith, and a practical method for living and sharing Christ in the modern world. Through this experience, participants encounter themselves, God, and others in a new and profound way.
A three day encounter with Christ
The Cursillo Weekend
At the heart of the movement is a three-day weekend filled with prayer, learning, and community. A team of clergy and laypeople share talks (rollos) that weave together Catholic teaching with real-life witness of faith.
The weekend includes daily Mass, the Sacraments, and time for reflection and friendship. Many participants describe it as a transformative encounter with God’s love.
A Lifelong Faith Journey Beyond Cursillo
The Fourth Day
Cursillo is more than three days—it continues as your Fourth Day, a lifelong journey of ongoing conversion and living your faith in everyday environments with family, friends, coworkers, your parish, and community.
Cursillistas stay connected through gatherings that strengthen and encourage those who have attended a Weekend through Group Reunions, Ultreyas (Onward!) and the School of Leaders.
Group Reunions
Small weekly gatherings of friends who pray, share, and encourage one another in living out their faith. Each person reflects on prayer, study, and action, offering support and accountability as they continue their walk with Christ.
Ultreyas
Monthly gatherings of the wider Cursillo community that bring together smaller groups for renewal and encouragement. They typically include witness talks, shared prayer, and fellowship that inspire perseverance and joy in the Christian life.
School of Leaders
The School of Leaders teaches us how to live the Cursillo method by bringing Christ into each of our environments and by becoming leaders for Him. Every Cursillista is called to participate.
