On May 1, 2026, the Cursillos community in Paris celebrated a very special anniversary: the 25th anniversary of the Movement’s presence in France, with Cursillos held in both Spanish and French. More than just a celebration, it was a family reunion marked by joy, shared faith, and the vivid memory of all that God has sown over the years.
About a hundred Cursillistas gathered at the Parish of St. Francis of Assisi, the church where the Eucharist was celebrated. This was a key moment of the gathering, intended to give thanks to the Lord and renew our commitment to the mission of evangelization.
Afterward, the festive atmosphere continued with hugs and the joy of seeing again those who were present at the very beginning of this community.
The day continued in a hall specially prepared for the occasion, decorated with flowers of many colors and photos from the 54 Cursillos organized over the years.
Several speakers recalled the first steps taken a quarter-century ago. Behind this story lies a face of faith and dedication: that of María Antonia Yanes. A Spanish mother, convinced that she must share the spiritual treasure that had transformed her life, knocked on many doors in Paris until she found a welcome in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. There, after a Mass, she was given just five minutes to speak to the faithful. That brief opportunity paved the way for the first mixed Cursillo in France to be held on April 28, 2001.
Since then, the movement has not stopped growing. Nearly 500 people have experienced the Cursillo in Paris thanks to 34 Cursillos in Spanish and 21 in French. But beyond the numbers, it is the transformed lives that give true meaning to this celebration. As one of the participants put it: “The renewal of our commitment seemed extraordinary to me. It made me relive that day when we said yes to the Lord. Seeing such generosity from the brothers and sisters was like seeing Jesus multiplying the loaves. The Cursillo has changed my perspective on life and has given me a great family in the faith.”
Another person who helped organize this anniversary shared their experience of service: “For me, this anniversary has been a challenge of love and dedication to God. I don’t have the gift of the gab, but I was able to place in the Lord’s hands other gifts He has granted me. Seeing the dedication of those who have been pioneers of this mission in France, the support of Father José García from the very beginning, and so many laypeople who have generously given their time has filled me with admiration and motivated me to continue serving.”
Finally, video messages sent from different countries reminded us that the spirit of Cursillos knows no borders and continues to unite lives around the world into one great spiritual family. The presentation of a large cake decorated with the movement’s logo was the finishing touch—more than just a festive symbol, it represented the perseverance of a community that, 25 years later, still holds onto the same enthusiasm it had at the very beginning.
