Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

For 50 years, men and women have been attending Quincy Cursillo weekends to renew and recharge their spiritual lives. The first Cursillo took place in December 1974, attended by 48 men and led by spiritual director Father Tom Henseler. The first women's Cursillo followed in February 1975 with 38 participants.

"We are currently on Cursillo #371," said Pat Holbrook, a committee member for the 50th 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 from Quincy University serves as the spiritual director. Mike Holbrook is the current lay director.

Cursillo (pronounced kur-see-yo) is a Spanish word meaning "short course" and spans three days. Quincy Cursillo hosts eight weekends per year—four for men and four for women. Men and women attend separate Cursillos due to different challenges they face and communication styles. If married, men attend first followed by their wives. Single, widowed, or divorced individuals are also encouraged to attend. Anyone aged 21 or older can participate in a Cursillo. While it is a Catholic experience, all Christians are welcome.

Mike Holbrook suggested considering several questions when deciding to make 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."

Cursillos take place at the Franciscan Retreat Center located at 1909 N. 18th St., Quincy. The facility includes amenities such as a chapel, dining room, conference room, private sleeping rooms, with meals 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 communities." Participants engage in discussions about these talks, pray together, sing together, celebrate the Eucharist together, and share fellowship.

Franciscan Friars have been integral to the program for many years serving as spiritual directors and advisors. Father Doctor has been serving since his appointment in 2012 while Father James Wheeler was assistant spiritual director on Cursillo #3 with his most recent being #370 in July.

Mike Holbrook shared his personal experience: “I made my Cursillo when I was very young,” he said. “What I experienced on those days back in 1979, I did not anticipate nor will I ever forget.”

On Sunday Oct.,13th ,the Quincy family will hold its celebration at Quincy Notre Dame High School marking its milestone . Pat mentioned that past participants were contacted anticipating their presence during mass & dinner .

To learn more about visit www.quincycusillio.com

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