By DIANE SCHLINDWEIN
Managing Editor

QUINCY — For 50 years, men and women have been attending Quincy Cursillo weekends, which offer great opportunities for renewing and recharging their spiritual lives. It was in December 1974 when the first Cursillo was attended by 48 men and led by spiritual director Father Tom Henseler.  The following February (1975), the first women’s Cursillo was attended by 38 women.

“We are currently on Cursillo #371,” said Pat Holbrook, who is on committee for the 50^th  anniversary of Quincy Cursillo. “Over 50 years, well over 10,000 people have attended and many of those remain involved as volunteers, allowing the weekends to continue.”  Currently Father John Doctor, OFM, from Quincy University is the spiritual director. Mike Holbrook is the current lay director. 

Cursillo (pronounced kur-see-yo) is a Spanish word meaning “short course” and they are a three-day experience. Quincy Cursillo hosts eight weekends per year — four for men and four for women. Men and women make separate Cursillos, as men and women each face their own challenges and communicate differently. If married, men attend the Cursillo first, followed by their wives. Attending Cursillos allows couples to grow together in their faith. Single, widowed, or divorced persons are encouraged to attend and strengthen their faith life as well. Anyone age 21 or older can attend a Cursillo. Cursillo is a Catholic experience, but all Christians are welcome to attend. 

Mike Holbrook said to ask yourself these questions when deciding on making a Cursillo: Am I searching for spiritual growth? Would I like to develop a closer relationship with Jesus? Am I looking for Christian friendship and service? Do I need to get away? Do I need insights to help improve my marriage and family life? Am I seeking an adult understanding of my faith?

“These are just a few good reasons to make a Cursillo weekend,” said Holbrook. “One must have a sponsor in order to attend a Cursillo and applications must be received no later than the Sunday prior to the Cursillo and signed by their pastor. Candidate applications can be any time before that.”

Cursillos are held at the Franciscan Retreat Center located at 1909 N. 18th St. in Quincy. The four-level building was a former seminary, and the Retreat Center wing contains a chapel, dining room, conference room, and private sleeping rooms. All meals are provided by Chartwells Food Service at QU. 

“One can expect to hear talks given by clergy and laypersons,” Mike Holbrook said. “Talks focus on growth in knowledge of one’s self, love of God, their role in their church and in their communities.  Participants discuss the talks, pray and sing together, celebrate the Eucharist, and share in fellowship.” 

Franciscan Friars have played an important part of Cursillos and many have served as Cursillo program spiritual directors and advisors for many years. Father Doctor was appointed spiritual director in 2012 and has been serving Cursillo weekends ever since.  Father James Wheeler, OFM, was assistant spiritual director on Cursillo #3 and his most recent was Cursillo #370 in July. 

Mike Holbrook says he can personally attest to the long-lasting outcomes of attending a Cursillo. “I made my Cursillo when I was very young,” said Mike Holbrook. “What I experienced on those days back in 1979, I did not anticipate, nor will I ever forget. It made me aware that Christ is counting on me.” 

On Sunday, Oct. 13, the Quincy Cursillo family is holding a celebration in honor of its 50^th anniversary at Quincy Notre Dame High School.  Pat Holbrook said they have contacted past Cursillo participants and look forward to celebrating with them at the Mass and dinner that will follow. 

To learn more about Cursillo visit www.quincycursillo.com.