The Australian Catholic Cursillo Movement’s biennial National Encounter will take place in October, with a particular focus on pilgrimage, entitled The Joy of the Pilgrim Heart.
The National Encounter will be held at the Greenhills Conference Centre, Canberra, from 16 to 18 October 2015.
Pilgrimage has a special significance for the Cursillo Movement, which originated on the island of Majorca, Spain, in 1944 as part of a preparation for a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.
“The National Encounter will explore the challenge of keeping the burning flame of our passion for God alive, particularly in today’s secular world,” said Cursillo National Coordinator, Joe Jambor.
“Similar to a pilgrimage or a homeward journey to a country of origin, our inner journey is a homeward journey to God.”
“We all have a pilgrim heart, one which is devoted to God and one which seeks greater openness and intimacy with our Lord Jesus. Openness and intimacy come through a listening heart, looking beyond the surface and seeing truths revealed and by perseverance and commitment.”
Mr Jambor said the program promised to be a refreshing, richly rewarding experience.
“Through a series of talks, meditations and related activities, the weekend celebrates the unique charism that the Cursillo Movement brings to the Church,” he said.
Highlights of the National Encounter will include Mass celebrated by the Archbishop of Canberra and Goulburn, Archbishop Christopher Prowse, and a presentation by internationally recognised songwriter and singer, Peter Kearney.
The quiet, secluded bush setting of Greenhills Conference Centre also offers an opportunity for personal prayer and reflection.
The Cursillo Movement acknowledges Australian Catholic Superannuation Retirement Fund as a major sponsor of the National Encounter and thanks them for financially supporting this event.