Cursillo marks 55 years in the Diocese of Raleigh

The Diocese of Raleigh is celebrating its 55th anniversary of Cursillo, a 60-year-old movement of Catholic Church that focuses on the evangelization of environments by individual Catholics. The movement began in Spain, spread to the USA and now has millions of members worldwide.

Cursillo (KER-SEE-O), meaning short course, begins with a three-day retreat that focuses on a personal relationship with Christ, then on the fundamentals of the faith. Cursillo extends far beyond the retreat and develops into a community.

Bishop Luis Rafael Zarama attended a Cursillo weekend in his hometown of Pasto, Colombia, when he was 19 and went on to be a Cursillista and part of a team that led weekends for others.

“I especially remember that one evening of each Cursillo weekend was scheduled just to be fun, to have fun,” reflected Bishop Zarama. “I have never been able to laugh like I did during those evenings. The joy in those evenings was something very special.”

On Sunday, July 29, Bishop Zarama will celebrate Mass at Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral at 3:00 p.m. After Mass, the celebration will continue with an Ultra Ultreya. Music and food will be provided; please bring a chair for the outdoor celebration.

All Cursillistas, Alvernistas and their families are invited. Please reply on the Facebook page or to PaulBrantsj@yahoo.com.