“There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens.” Ecclesiastes 3:1
Last week, the Secretariat voted not to hold the Fall 2020 Men’s and Women’s weekends. Rectora Jennifer Ventura and Rector Chris Lavond actively participated in the discussion. The decision was made due to continued concerns regarding the safety of the candidates, team, community, and Sisters at Saint Clare and their guests.
The Secretariat reviewed all parts of the weekend, from Thursday’s setup through Sunday’s potluck. While it would be possible to reimagine parts of the weekend, it remains concerned about our ability to create a meaningful and faith-building journey for both candidates and team within the current and expected guidelines (Counties of Santa Cruz and Santa Clara, and the Dioceses of Santa Clara and Monterey).
Knowing also the number of at-risk candidates, team, and community, the Secretariat did not want to be complicit in someone becoming infected or spreading the virus.
At this point, Chris Lavond agreed to continue on as Rector and Jennifer Ventura will discern later this year on whether she will continue on as Rectora. The teams and candidates have been informed. The Secretariat will monitor the situation over the summer and officially discern the situation for Spring 2021 starting in September. We will refund any team and candidate fees upon request.
Cursillo is both a method and a way of life. The weekend can be a beautiful miracle for candidates and team; the weekend gets a lot of attention. While we are disappointed with canceling the Spring and Fall 2020 weekends, we Cursillistas joyfully live our Pre- and Post-Cursillo.
Pre-Cursillo is crucially important – “Make a friend, be a friend, bring a friend to Christ” – this is hard work and the call for each of us. Once made, THEN we bring the friend to Cursillo. Post-Cursillo is equally crucial, where we support and encourage each other in our faith journey. We influence and be that servant-leader in our environments.
The Secretariat will look at additional ways to connect and support the Community during Pre- and Post-Cursillo. We hold weekly liturgies, hold monthly School of Leaders, and have encouraged 4th Day (Group Reunions) and volunteer service. Fr. Chris has nourished us weekly, with his words of encouragement and prayer. I know we can do more when the Community engages. Please provide us your feedback.
On Wednesday, June 17, we will pray the Rosary – Joyful Mysteries with Prayers for Equality & Justice. Please see more details below.
As noted prior, please see below for ways to volunteer and serve if you are able.
You are in my daily prayers.
Sincerely and De Colores,
Larry Cargnoni
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