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Tasmanian Anglican

April 2004

 

Cursillo catchwords - The Spanish secret revealed

 

 

There used to be a 'secret mentality', which shrouded the early Cursillos in Tasmania.

Not that Cursillo was ever a secret society, but there was a difference noticed in those who had been to Cursillo as well as a new language, or so it seemed.

There were post-Cursillo gatherings which 'only Cursillistas' were invited to, and, of course many questions brought the frustrating answer 'I cannot tell you. You'll just have to go to Cursillo yourself to really understand.' No wonder everything associated with Cursillo was treated with suspicion, even outright hostility by some; now slowly but surely, the misconceptions are being broken down. More people have attended Cursillo. Post Cursillo gatherings are not exclusive. Participants are actively encouraged to answer questions honestly and openly - what happens? who goes? what do you have to do when you're there? - etc.

Both Cursillistas (those who have been to Cursillo) and any other people would benefit from understanding the secret language of Cursillo. The words are all Spanish, and they are words that encourage in our life in Christ.

Cursillo just means 'a short course'. A short course in exploring our relationship with God and with other Christians. Most of us would benefit from a short course every now and then!

Ultreya means 'onwards and upward' it is a word of encouragement in our Christian journey. The post Cursillo gatherings are called Ultreyas because their purpose is simply to encourage us in our Christian journeys. They are times of worship, with shared stories; singing, scripture readings, Eucharist or a service of prayer. After that, we have time to share over afternoon tea or supper. Anyone, everyone is welcome to Ultreyas.

Palanca means 'lever' and again it is a form of encouragement. More practically, and personally though, it acts as a way to help lift people to another level of understanding in their relationships with God. Everyone who has been to Cursillo is encouraged to offer Palanca. It is simply prayer for another person, or for a group of people. Prayer, a powerful lifting, or moving force for the work of the Holy Spirit. We all need it, we can all offer it, and anyone can do Palanca.

De Colores means 'the colours' and particularly, all the colours of the rainbow. De Colores reminds us of the beauty and blessings of God's graciousness to us. The colours remind us that God loves us. The colours are again, an encouragement. De Colores is often used at the end of letter or talk and is saying 'remember the rainbow and how beautiful and perfect is God's creation, including you.' We all need to be reminded about God's love for us sometimes.

So - share the secret - use English words if you wish!

De Colores!

This article has been used with permission from the Rev. Sally Boothey, the Diocesan Spiritual Director for the Cursillo Movement in the Diocese of Gippsland.