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About Us
Who We Are
Via de Cristo is a Christian movement to strengthen and renew the faith of Christian people and bring them to a new awareness of living in God's grace, intended to strengthen the local church through the development of Christian disciples and leaders.
History of the Via de Cristo
Via de Cristo originated from the Roman Catholic Cursillo movement which began in Spain in 1944 and moved to America in the late 50's. The first Lutheran- sponsored Cursillos (the early name for Via de Cristo) were held in Miami, Florida in 1971. In addition to the Catholic and Lutheran movements there are similar expressions in the Methodist (Walk to Emmaus), Lutheran (Via de Cristo), Reformed, Episcopal, Presbyterian (Cursillo), and other Christian ( Tres Dias)churches. Today, it has grown to be an international movement with well over 2 million Christians in well over 60 countries have attended a "Cursillo" weekend.
*Picture from the first Cursillo held in Spain.
What Happens on a Weekend
The Via de Cristo experience begins with a 72-hour short course in Christianity, comprised of fifteen talks by lay people and clergy on the themes of God's grace, disciplines of Christian discipleship, and what it means to be the church. The course is wrapped in prayer and meditation, special times of worship, and daily celebration of Holy Communion.
4th Day
The Via de Cristo Community, or "4th Day"is made up of those who have already attended a VdC weekend, support the 72-hour experience with a prayer vigil, by preparing and serving meals, and other acts of love and self-giving. Via de Cristo is ecumenical and welcomes any and all Baptized Christians to attend, and uses Lutheran theology as its faith cornerstone. The Colorado Via de Cristo currently hosts and holds several weekends a year in Colorado. If you've been invited to a weekend, you will find more information about VdC at this site.
What Happens After a Weekend?
The weekend is only a beginning. What you learn and share during the weekend will hopefully be taken back and put into practice in your local congregation and community. You will be supported by many others who have attended a Via de Cristo before or with you. Small groups meet regularly (called "Reunion Group") to affirm one another and to share the Christian life of Grace. These activities inspire, challenge, and encourage Christian action in homes, churches, and communities.
How Can I Attend a Weekend?
If you would like to attend a Via de Cristo weekend, please contact an individual who has previously attended. If you do not know of anyone who has previously attended a Via de Cristo, please complete the Contact Us button below and we will be happy to provide you with additional information or answer any questions that you may have.