Cursillo
Summer Retreat 2024
It is both a great joy and terrific challenge to serve as Rectora of this Cursillo Weekend, June 6-9 at Todd Hall in Columbia, Illinois. As I gather our team for meetings and planning activities I reflect on all the wonderful experiences I’ve enjoyed through Cursillo.
However, the most important result of a weekend is to deepen my faith in God and come to learn about Jesus and the abundant love He has for each of His people.
Please consider this invitation to join us for three days. It’s an investment in your future and a chance to help fulfill God’s intention for His world. What could be more important than a life closer to Jesus?
“If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” John 15:9-12
Blessings, Carol McCrary, Rectora – Cursillo #40
The upcoming retreat for this summer will be held from June 6-9, 2024. For those who are interested in participating in this summer, please contact Carol McCrary at 618-322-6296
What is Cursillo?
Cursillo is an opportunity to grow in our Christian faith. Its goal is to equip Christians to lead a Christ-centered life and help spread the good news. This layperson-led ministry includes talks, quiet reflection, song, group activities, worship, fun and fellowship! Additionally, there will be opportunities for spiritual counseling with clergy. Cursillo is a time for learning and rejoicing and going out to reflect to others that joy to encourage them in the way, and we hope you will join us! For more information about Cursillo in the Episcopal Church, visit the Cursillo Website.
A Reflection from Cursillo Summer Retreat 2023
"Not An Ending, A Beginning"
The display of reflective creations is down, words of understanding folded up, tables cleared, chairs stacked, lights off. It is as if the Cursillo XXXIX Weekend was never at Toddhall. The manmade signs are gone; but this is not an ending. Thursday evening we arrived as strangers, feeling a bit awkward in a new space. Sunday afternoon, we left as friends in Christ. As hugs were shared, quick kisses planted on cheeks and good-byes were offered, every heart was full of the Holy Spirit. The truth is, Sunday was not an ending; it was and is a refreshing reboot for continuing our spiritual journeys toward living a grace-filled life; a life viewed through the lens of God. May that lens be wiped clean each morning with prayer in preparation for a new day.
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
When darkness seemed to challenge every step of the Cursillo XXXIX path; through storm damage, power outages, injuries and even loss of life, our team persevered in faith. Daily prayers asking for everyone attending to experience an infilling of God’s word in their open hearts were answered. Whether in the Conference Room, Palanca Chapel or Palanca Barn, we grew as a team, we grew as friends, we grew in understanding, and we grew in commitment to sharing the good news of our Lord. Through Holy Communion, prayer, song, learning, journaling, discussing, laughing, and some crying, we marched along personal paths to loving our Lord more deeply. Dark clouds surrounded us on many occasions, but the rays of God’s light were not dimmed as He was with us every step during this Cursillo XXXIX Weekend.
“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name: You are mine.” Isaiah 43:1
Do not allow the challenges of life cause you to doubt God’s presence; He is with you always.
Jesus Christ, inner light,
Let not our own darkness conquer us.
Jesus Christ, inner light,
Enable us to welcome Your love.
Suzanne Toolan, S.M.
Serving the Lord in Cursillo XXXIX as the Rectora was a blessing. My journey toward leading a grace-filled life continues, as does yours. God be with you as you travel on, side by side with our Lord, sharing the Good News of Jesus.
“If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” John 15:9-12
Many blessings and prayers, Dawn Jung, Rectora