Presbyterian Cursillo:
An Opportunity for Renewal
Georgia Presbyterian Cursillo
(“cur-SEE-oh,” n., Spanish, a short course)
Refresh your awareness of the joy and grace God has for each of us,
Renew your enthusiasm for living out your relationship with Christ, and
Return to your home, church and workplace inspired to reform them for Jesus.
What is Cursillo?
Millions of Christians of various denominations have participated in a “Cursillo,” a weekend experience that inspires the joyful and enthusiastic living out of the Christian faith. Presbyterian Cursillo weekends are sponsored and led by lay-men and women, with the participation and spiritual guidance of ordained PC(USA) Presbyterian ministers. Participants return from Cursillo energized and inspired to transform their environments for Christ.
History
The Cursillo idea and method were born in Spain in the 1940s out of a desire to awaken in laymen the deep meaning and power of the faith they professed, and to remind them of what is fundamental in being a Christian. The weekends were called “Cursillos de Christiandad,” or “Short Courses in Christianity.” Among Catholics, Cursillo spread quickly to South, Central, and North America. It was adapted and adopted by Protestants in this country beginning in the 1970s. The first Protestant Cursillos in the United States were held by Episcopalians, Methodists, Lutherans and Presbyterians. Each year additional denominations follow suit and join the Cursillo renewal movement.
Growth
The Presbyterian Cursillo movement began in Charleston, South Carolina and has been growing ever since! Additional communities are now active in AL, TX, CO, OK, IL, IN, AR, MI, NC, and VA. Those communities aim to spread the Presbyterian Cursillo opportunity throughout the denomination. Participation by members of all Georgia Presbyterian churches is the goal of the GA Presbyterian Cursillo.
Why
The Cursillo experience does not end on Sunday. It is intended to last for a lifetime. Participants are encouraged to join small groups that meet regularly to renew enthusiasm, affirm one another and share experiences in the Christian life. The entire community also meets periodically for fellowship and renewal.
Reformation and renewal in Christ are indispensable to our participation in the unfolding and expansion of God’s Kingdom. Presbyterian Cursillo is a vital and exciting resource for renewal, and Presbyterian men and women are encouraged to participate. Presbyterians who have attended another denominations’ Cursillo, e.g.: Walk to Emmaus, Via de Cristo or Tres Dias are also welcome as members of the staffs for these weekends.
When
Georgia Presbyterian Cursillo sponsors three Cursillo weekends a year. For the current calendar and more information, check out the website – www.georgiapresbyteriancursillo.com.
How
Application forms for participants and staff are available online at www.georgiapresbyteriancursillo.com. The entire cost of the 3-day weekend getaway with Jesus Christ is $50 – the remainder of the cost of the weekend is a gift from those who have attended previous Presbyterian Cursillo weekends.
Where
Georgia Presbyterian Cursillos are held at retreat centers near Clayton, GA. The retreat center provides modern and comfortable lodging and delicious food. Participants must be 18 years of age. Male/female, young/old, single/couple – all are welcome! Participants check into the retreat center by 5:00 PM on Thursday evening and depart approximately 5:00 PM on Sunday evening. During the weekend participants engage in small group discussion, worship, prayer, singing, eating, sleeping AND laughter.
Learn more about Presbyterian Cursillo at www.georgiapresbyteriancursillo.com.
