Jackson hosts first Cursillo meeting for Region VII JACKSON — The Diocese of Jackson will host the Region VII Spring Encounter for the Cursillo Movement Friday, April 25, from 6 - 9 p.m. and Saturday, April 26, from 7:30 a.m. – 9 p.m., at St. Paul Parish in Flowood.
The regional encounter brings Cursillistas from Region VII, which includes six neighboring states.
According to organizers, the encounter is a combination of worship, friendship, and joy. It includes Mass, Morning and Evening Prayer, Enthronement and Dethronement of the Bible.
“We will enjoy guest speakers from the regional level and breakout sessions for discussion. And of course, as with all Cursillo festivities, we will share fellowship and meals together. It is much like a Cursillo weekend and is a wonderful opportunity to meet with other Cursillistas,” said Susan Doolittle, lay director.
“The United States Cursillo Movement has three language groups that attend: Spanish, Vietnamese and English. The regional encounter is a wonderful opportunity to experience the cultural richness of each of these groups,” Doolittle said.
“At one encounter,” she said, “we learned both how to Texas line dance to the Boot Scott Boogie and to dance a Vietnamese version of the hula using sign language to communicate universal love and peace. It was a truly unique experience that was enjoyed by everyone.”
Doolittle said another time they were entertained by a Mexican Mariachi Band, and another time by dancers from Colombia in native costume.
“Each diocese brings its own unique flavor as hosts. This time we will be entertained by Irish Dancers and our East Coast brothers and sisters have asked us to serve them some classic southern regional cuisine.”
Fred and Theresa Bunty of Newton attended a regional several years ago and they remember the friendships they made. Theresa said she met many Cursillistas who inspired her and recalls how much she enjoyed meeting so many Cursillistas.
Father Dan Gallagher, spiritual director for the Cursillo Movement of the Jackson diocese, attended the last encounter in Jacksonville, Fla., and said he enjoyed meeting with brother priests and meeting Cursillistas from Region VII.
“At each encounter,” Doolittle says, “I have made new friends that I stay in contact with today. I look forward to seeing them again. We pray for each other and for our families and friends.”
Doolittle “invites all Cursillistas to attend the encounter. It is our honor, privilege and responsibility to extend hospitality to our guests. We hope you will be able join us and welcome our brother and sister Cursillistas.”
If you plan to attend, registration forms are available online or contact Susan Doolittle at 601-966-8188, or Sue Ann Booth at 601-960-8474.
