What Is Cursillo, Really?

A Personal Invitation to Something Deeper

Maybe you’ve heard someone at church mention “Cursillo” in passing. Maybe a friend invited you to a weekend retreat, but didn’t say much more than, “It’s life-changing—you just have to go!” Maybe you nodded politely, wondering: What is this thing, really? Is it for me? What would I be signing up for?

If that sounds like you, you’re not alone. Many of us who’ve made our Cursillo had the same questions before we ever said “yes.” So let’s slow down, take a deep breath, and talk about it.

It’s Not Just a Retreat—It’s a Starting Line

At its simplest, Cursillo (Spanish for “a short course”) is a three-day weekend designed to help you explore your faith more deeply, understand your role as a Christian leader, and connect more meaningfully with your church community.

But ask anyone who’s attended, and they’ll tell you it’s more than that. It’s not a conference. It’s not a seminar. It’s not a test. It’s a safe, sacred space where you can show up as your full, honest self—questions, doubts, gifts, and all — and encounter the transforming love of Christ in a way that’s personal and profound.

So, What Happens on a Cursillo Weekend?

Without giving too much away (because part of the beauty is experiencing it for yourself!), here’s a glimpse:

• You’ll hear short talks given by clergy and laypeople — real people just like you — about faith, grace, forgiveness, leadership, and living as a disciple.

• You’ll gather around tables to reflect, laugh, and share with others in community.

• You’ll spend time in worship, prayer, and song, surrounded by people walking their own journeys of faith.

• And you’ll leave with something we call your “4th Day” — the days after the weekend, where the real journey begins.

Common Questions (That You Might Be Thinking)

Do I need to be “super religious”? Not at all. Cursillo is for everyday Episcopalians — people who want to grow in their faith, no matter where they are on their spiritual journey.

Will I be asked to share deeply personal things? You’re invited to share at your comfort level. No one is pressured. Cursillo is about community, not confession.

What if I don’t know anyone else going? Perfect. You’ll meet people from all over the diocese, many of whom will become lasting friends and spiritual companions.

Is it only for certain people? Nope. Cursillo is open to all adult Episcopalians — men and women, married or single, lay or clergy. Everyone belongs.

So Why Do People Keep Saying It Changed Their Life?

Because it does — quietly, gently, and deeply.

Not with fireworks or loud fanfare, but in the way God often works:

• In the honest sharing of a story that sounds like yours.

• In the voice of someone saying exactly what your heart needed to hear.

• In the realization that you're not alone.

• In rediscovering that your faith is not just a private feeling — it’s a calling to lead, love, and serve.

What Happens After the Weekend?

This part is one of the most beautiful surprises.

After your Cursillo weekend, you’re invited to stay connected through what we call 4th Day activities: small group reunions, gatherings called Ultreyas, and ongoing encouragement to live out your faith in the world.

You’ll find that the weekend isn’t the finish line — it’s the starting line. And you’re not running alone.

An Invitation, Not a Pressure

Cursillo isn’t about obligation. No one’s keeping score. It’s not for perfect people (thank God, or none of us would be here).

It’s for those who are curious enough, tired enough, or hungry enough for something more. For those who feel stuck or stirred. For those who want to grow. For those who just need a weekend to be with God.

If that’s you — or even if you’re not sure — it might be time to start the conversation.

Talk to Someone

If your heart’s been nudged while reading this, don’t let that pass. Talk to your rector, your Cursillo parish representative, or someone you know who’s attended.

Ask questions. Pray about it. And if the Spirit is leading you, we hope you’ll say yes.

Because on the other side of that “yes” could be the weekend — and the community — you didn’t even know your soul needed.