Long Weekend Retreat
The last Cairns Cursillo was held July 17-19, 2026
Cairns Diocesan Cursillo Live‑Out Long Weekend – A Grace‑Filled Success
The Cairns Cursillo long weekend introduced its new live‑out format with outstanding success, welcoming thirty‑five participants from across the Diocese, including Millaa Millaa, Innisfail, Mareeba and Cairns. The theme, Humanity Magnified in Christ: Living Truthfully in a Digital Age, drew inspiration from Pope Leo XIV’s Magnifica Humanitas and set a deeply reflective tone for the retreat.
Fr Biju Kuriakose, our Spiritual Advisor, supported the community by celebrating the Eucharist and offering Reconciliation. Fr James Thazhoor presided at the opening Mass, and guest speakers Fr Jerin Chandy, Fr John Matthew, and Rev Peter De Haas shared heartfelt and insightful talks that deeply moved attendees.
Coordinator Wesley Stiffle described the weekend as “grace filled,” noting that Cursillo provides simple, practical ways for people to open their hearts to God’s call through prayer, fellowship, and the Holy Spirit’s gentle prompting. What a rich and vibrant weekend we shared! Over three days, participants encountered themselves more honestly, met Jesus more deeply, and truly connected with one another in the love of Christ. God revealed Himself in simple, powerful moments — warm affection, shared laughter, tears of joy and release, and genuine friendship. Through the songs, talks, groups discussion, and quiet prayer, His presence was tangible and renewing.
The Hugh O’Brien Centre at St Mary’s College proved an ideal venue, offering quiet spaces for prayer, comfortable areas for meals and conversation, and the convenience of returning home each night—an advantage of the new live‑out model. Affordable catering and accessible registration helped make the weekend welcoming for all.
The retreat’s interactive format—short presentations, personal reflection, and small‑group discussion—highlighted how piety, study, and action support ongoing spiritual growth. This is especially valuable for those completing or recently completing Rite to Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), as Cursillo offers the next step: deepening Catholic identity, building a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and joining a community walking together toward holiness.
As we return to daily life, may we carry this fire forward. Christ is counting on us — and we are counting on Christ.
For more information, visit www.cursillo.asn.au or contact the President, Nathan Fiumara: 0448 573 851 or Secretary, Maria Mezes 0422 585 744
