HOW DID IT BEGIN?

The Oakland Cursillo Weekend continues a 50-year tradition of promoting small faith sharing and empowering lay leadership in the Oakland Diocese. The concept for the 3-day weekend originated in Mallorca, Spain in 1944. A layman, named Eduardo Bonin, began a group to foster lay participation in the church. He called the group (in Spanish) Cursillo. The Oakland Cursillo Weekend is an updated version of the original 3 days, developed by lay leaders in the Oakland Diocese.

WHAT IS AN OAKLAND CURSILLO WEEKEND?

There are as many answers as there are people. For some, it's a new breath of life, a dynamic new expression of the Holy Spirit. For others, it's a chance to examine their faith and learn different perspectives from other Christians. Part of the purpose of the Oakland Cursillo Weekend is to help us recognize Christ's action in our personal lives and in the lives of others. This is the purpose of true church. We rarely get an opportunity like this weekend to experience authentic Christian Community first-hand.

DISCUSSING AND LEARNING

You will have the opportunity to share your thoughts and ideas about Christianity with others. The weekend helps give you a better understanding of church teachings, and time to sort out your own feelings about your faith. New friendships are formed, and a great deal of learning takes place. During the 3 days, candidates listen to talks given by both lay people and clergy. Some of the topics discussed are: Finding Your Life Mission; Recognizing God's Grace; Growing in Discipleship; and Shaping our World.

WHO WILL BE ON THE WEEKEND?

People like yourself: lay people and clergy who are curious, searching, discovering, and growing. The team consists of both lay leaders and clergy who have met for several weeks to prepare for this weekend.