Cursillo - Becoming a Better Christian

Cursillo – an international across-denomination movement that aims to develop better Christian communities throughout the world – has played a major role in the growth of Christian fellowship and spiritual development at St Mark's since 1985.

In that year members of St Mark's were instrumental in the introduction of Cursillo into the Diocese of Brisbane and attended the first Cursillo weekend. More than 2000 people within the Diocese have attended Cursillo weekends, including about 65 men and women from St Mark's.

Origin

Cursillo originated in the Roman Catholic Church in Spain in 1948. The Spanish word “cursillo” means “a short course” (as in a sprint race), translated as a “short course in Christian living”. It was adopted in the Americas and then spread to the Episcopal Church (Anglican) where it was adapted for the Anglican Communion. The Uniting Church has also adopted Cursillo under the name of “Emmaus Walk”.

The movement was introduced to Australia in the Diocese of Canberra and Goulburn in 1978 by the Diocese of Niagara, Canada. Since then, 17 dioceses in Australia have adopted Cursillo. Diocese secretariats comprise both clergy and lay people.

Purpose

The movement aims to “Christianise” environments through small Christian communities committed to living and spreading the gospel. The movement reinforces what is fundamental to being a Christian in order to create small groups who meet in community with emphasis on servant-hood within the church and to be the bearer of the good news to others.

Activities

Preparation for the task of meeting in Christian groups who love, share, support and challenge one another in their task of bearing the good news to others takes place during the three-day weekend where new members are sponsored. These meetings are usually held annually in Brisbane, Toowoomba and on the North coast.

There are a number of small Cursillo “home” groups varying in size from two to six people that meet regularly within St Mark's Parish.

Groups come together in larger Cursilla gatherings or Ultreyas throughout the year at parish, regional and diocesan level. A diocesan Ultreya is held annually in St John's Cathedral in November and National gatherings are held periodically.

Contact

For further information please contact the Parish Office on 3300 1502.