Sixty years is a long time for a “short course” to keep changing lives. Since 1966, Cursillo has helped thousands of Catholics across Canberra-Goulburn deepen their faith. Source: Catholic Voice.
Many have described the experience as a turning point in their relationship with Jesus.
“Years ago, a small group of people said ‘yes’ to a bold and uncertain idea,” Cursillo lay leader Alfred Bongi says.
“They trusted the Holy Spirit, trusted one another, and believed deeply that Christian friendship could change lives.”
Cursillo, Spanish for “short course”, uses prayer, study, lay witness and spiritual direction to help Catholics live their faith more deeply in everyday life.
Spiritual Director Fr Emil Milat has witnessed its impact over many years.
“I have met many people over the years that speak about Cursillo as a turning point in their faith, from simply regular Mass goers to avidly developing a personal relationship with Jesus,” he said.
“They saw that God is not a distant deity to worship but a personal incarnate God in Jesus who helps them grow in all areas of their life, from work, family and self-dignity.”
For Paul Ross from Queanbeyan Parish, the journey began more than 30 years ago at St Michael’s noviciate in Goulburn.
“I did my first Cursillo in October 1995 and the following year I was on the presenting team for my second Cursillo,” he says.
For Fr Milat, it is lay witness that remains one of Cursillo’s strengths.
“The method of laity giving talks and sharing a weekend together to deepen and renew their faith, with a priest spiritual director intimately connected, is a timeless formula,” he said.
“So many laity are well formed in their faith and have such a deep inner faith life. Cursillo can tap into this, like a powerful drill used to unlock a spiritual oil reservoir.”
FULL STORY
Cursillo: Sixty years of saying ‘yes’ to faith (By Jeanine Doyle, Catholic Voice)
