Cursillo is a movement.  The word Cursillo is derived from the Spanish language and means 'short course in Christianity'.

Involvement with Cursillo typically begins with sponsorship of a candidate by a Cursillista (one who is a Cursillo member).  The initial Cursillo weekend is designed for Christian renewal. The weekend includes a number of activities which, put together, make a very effective tool for bringing a new vigor to Christian life by giving participants a new awareness of living a life filled with God's grace.

Cursillo began as "short courses" for Catholic pilgrims on the Spanish island of Majorca in the early 1940's. Initially, Cursillo weekends were held for young men, but in 1954, they were begun for men of all ages. Cursillos for women were started during the early 1960's. The Cursillo movement spread to the United States via the Roman Catholic Church and soon was transplanted to the Episcopalian and Lutheran churches.

Cursillos are regularly held across the entire country. There are Cursillo weekends held in prisons (Kairos) and specifically for teenagers (Teens  Encounter Christ or T.E.C.).

Cursillo is an international movement to renew and revitalize Christians around the world.

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Last Updated:  06/13/2008