Palanca Cooks - Via de Cristo resources/Rollo Manual, … · Web viewROLLO. TEAM. MANUAL (July...

Lutheran Cursillo Movement of Arizona

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ROLLOTEAM

MANUAL(July 2007 edition)

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

What is a Team?........................................................................................................4What is a Cursillo Team?..........................................................................................4How is a Cursillo Team Formed?..............................................................................4How Long Does Team Formation Last?...................................................................5The Importance of the Team Member.......................................................................5Finally, in summary...................................................................................................6Psychology of the Weekend......................................................................................7Progression of the Three Days..................................................................................8Progression of the Talks..........................................................................................11Moods and Themes of the Cursillo Weekend.........................................................11“The Progression of the Weekend” Figure..............................................................14Preparing, Writing & Presenting the Rollo.............................................................15

Items to Be Covered in the Outline of the Rollos......................................................................15How to Prepare a Rollo.............................................................................................................15Prayer and Preparation Prevent Poor Performance...................................................................15Scripture Readings for Talks.....................................................................................................18Writing and Delivering a Rollo.................................................................................................18Rollo Writing and Presentation (Another Perspective).............................................................20Audio / Visual Aids for Your Rollo..........................................................................................22Rollo Presentation in Team.......................................................................................................23Main Points for Discussions After the Talks.............................................................................24

Decuria (Table) Leaders..........................................................................................26General Roles............................................................................................................................26Role of Team Decuria Facilitator..............................................................................................26Role of Team Decuria Observer................................................................................................27Miscellaneous Policies..............................................................................................................28Conclusion.................................................................................................................................28

Rollo Team Training...............................................................................................29Group Dynamics - Introduction.................................................................................................29What Group Dynamics is and How it Works............................................................................29Unique Characteristics of Christian Groups..............................................................................30Model Decuria – The Role Play................................................................................................31Characters in Model Decuria.....................................................................................................32

Guidelines for Fishermen........................................................................................33Reminders About the Weekend...............................................................................35De Colores (the song)..............................................................................................36De Colores (an explanation)....................................................................................37


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Rollo Outline.........................................................................................................EndBooklet..................................................................................................................End


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WHAT IS A TEAM?

A team is a group that acts together as a unit to reach a set of goals. Each individual works in union with all the other individuals to accomplish the agreed-upon goals. With animals, a yoke or harness is necessary to focus each individual’s attention on the work. With humans, the yoke is symbolic and its name is “commitment.” Like animals, humans must consent (commit) to be yoked together to work as a team.

WHAT IS A CURSILLO TEAM?

Each member of a Cursillo team is chosen for his actual or potential talent. Everyone on the 3-Day team, whether cook, head cook, rollista, spiritual director, co-rector, or rector, IS A LEADER. (See the Leaders Rollo Outline for justification of this assertion.) Each is required to give the same living witness, the same commitment, and the same enthusiasm. Some will proclaim the Christian message through a rollo; others will do so with their servant hood; but all will be proclaiming it with their own lives. Their leadership amounts to BEING Christian and bidding others to follow.

To paraphrase Romans 1:3-8 and I Corinthians 12, there are many different categories of leaders on a Cursillo 3-Day. Each has different functions. Team members provide a diversity of services but have one common mission. This requires teamwork. The effectiveness of a Christian does not reach its full force until it is part of a community witness. All members of the team must be living incarnations of the message that they are proclaiming to the participants. Within their own roles, they share equal responsibility for the proper development of the 3-Day. They are called to enter the 3-Day with the attitude of not only giving that 3-Day, but also of living it.

All are molded into a team whose function is to become an authentic and living Christian witness to the participants on the target 3-Day. This process is known as Team Formation and has 4 essential elements: The building of a sense of CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY through personal contact The acquisition of the characteristics of a large Cursillo GROUP REUNION The PREPARATION, DELIVERY, AND CRITIQUE of the 15 part 3-Day talk (ROLLOS)

and The development of table skills for engaging in PERSONAL CONTACT WITH

PARTICIPANTS.

HOW IS A CURSILLO TEAM FORMED?

Formation is the instrument that empowers and enables the individuals of the team and the team as a whole to do the job they committed to do for the Lord. It enables perseverance. The Lord FORMS, molds, and shapes the group into a TOOL or VESSEL to present the Person of Jesus Christ as a personal friend to those on the weekend.

Formation includes a growing together in oneness in Christ. It involves becoming a large Group Reunion able to communicate and share individual walks with Jesus in loving and trusting community.


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Formation is achieved by worshiping together, by growing and learning together, by spending time together sharing our lives with Christ, and by planning, singing, eating, laughing, and even sometimes crying together. FORMATION CANNOT BE RUSHED. HOW LONG DOES TEAM FORMATION LAST?

Team formation begins with the calls to individuals and ends on Thursday night of the beginning of the 3 days. At that point, the team's formation enables it to reach out to new participants and to form into Decuria groups throughout the weekend. Team formation is the result of the action of the Holy Spirit upon a group of individuals who have submitted themselves to His will for them at that point in time.

The Rector is responsible to see that the individuals, the settings and opportunities for growth are there. Team meetings provide the time for the formative activities to take place. The Group Reunions of the greater Arizona community send members to serve on teams. Those individuals become members of the “large team Group Reunion.” Pairs of team members serve as leaders of Decurias on weekends and those Decurias form into Group Reunions during the 3 days. They meet with other decurias as they discuss posters and worship. That time is Ultreya, the meeting of the Groups. At the end of the 3-Day weekend, the individuals from Decurias go out to form into Group Reunions of their own joining existing ones or forming new ones. The entire Cursillo method of Fourth Day, including Group Reunion and Ultreya is practiced during team formation and during the 3-Day. THIS IS THE WAY CURSILLO GROWS!

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE TEAM MEMBER

For the Cursillo team member, aptitude is somewhat important but not nearly as important as attitude. Many things a team member does on a Cursillo weekend can be learned but his attitude must be present from the start. That is why he must answer the question “Why Am I Here, Lord?” That answer must be:

1. I am here to praise God and to do His work here on earth. 2. I am here to imitate Jesus Christ and to be a window to participants at this Cursillo. 3. I am here to pray and make sacrifices for the entire team and participants. 4. I am here to help establish a Christian community based on Jesus Christ and blessed by the

gift of the Holy Spirit. 5. I am here to know the intent of the talks and to help the speakers accomplish them by guiding

and directing discussion at the table. 6. I am here to display Christian discipleship -- love of my fellow human beings, acceptance of

another person as an individual, by leadership (not domination), and by showing my concern for others.

7. I am here to demonstrate true leadership -- not for glory seeking but in loving concern; to be a guide not a counselor, to be a good listener, and to be tolerant.

8. I am here so that when these three days are over the participants will be able to say, "I came looking for Christ and found Him there."


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9. I am here to ask humbly that God's will be done, not mine and in all things ask, “What would Jesus do?”

10. I am here, Christ, to submit my heart and soul to you so that our love will bloom and grow.

During team formation, being a team member requires a number of commitments. Each commitment would be like one of the straps on our harness or yoke. Team members need to commit to:

BE SERVANTS - to be HUMBLE and to SURRENDER THEMSELVES to the needs of others.

PRAY - for each other, for our prayer partners, for all sections of the team, for the companion team (men for women, women for men), for the participants, and for the community.

STUDY - to know our own individual roles on the 3-Day in order to work with rather than against the team. To know, whether rollista or cook, the progression and psychology of the 3-Day. To listen to the instructional talks given during team formation. To read & learn the hand-out literature.

ATTEND – all team meetings. DEVELOP FRIENDSHIP - with all team members and participants. WITNESS - to be living witnesses to our Savior

FINALLY, IN SUMMARY

TO BE A TEAM OF CURSILLO LEADERS, WE MUST EMBRACE WHAT WE TEACH: PIETY, STUDY, AND ACTION!

PIETY

1. Confess and receive forgiveness in order to be a channel for God’s love to flow through us to others.

2. Seek spiritual direction to remove doubts and burdens.3. Pray each day for each other, for both the Men’s and the Women’s Cursillo teams, for the

participants, for our prayer partners, and for the community.4. Examine our consciences to ensure we are performing for God’s glorification, not our own.5. Continue to participate in the Christian community in our own churches by participating in

worship and sacraments.

STUDY

1. Study the literature that is given to us and listen to the talks given in the team meetings, even if we’ve been on team before. The success of the weekend depends upon each team member’s knowing his role in the development of the weekend and how to best carry out that role.

2. Spend time each day in Scripture study.


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ACTION

1. Continue with our own group reunion and not let team replace it. Share our excitement, growth, and blessings of team formation with our group.

2. Be attentive to whomever we are with at the time. One of Jesus' most loving characteristics was that He paid full attention to the people around Him. We must listen to people with His ears, see them with His eyes, and love them with His heart.

3. Uphold each other! Encourage and build up one another, remembering that everything we do is for Him, to His glory, and for His kingdom.

4. Continue to share and spend time with our own families, friends, and congregations. Even though we are on team, the world has not stopped turning.

PSYCHOLOGY OF THE WEEKEND

Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

Descent into Self Our Father Jesus, the Son Holy Spirit

Maundy Thursday Good Friday Holy Saturday EASTER

What the Cursillo is designed to achieve spiritually is: Thursday is Maundy Thursday ... one's "altar" is stripped, one's "church" is darkened, and he is alone with himself looking inward. Friday is Good Friday ... he dies to self; he permits the crucifixion of himself and his old ways of coping. Saturday is Holy Saturday ... a time of quiet preparation, a peaceful day. Sunday is Easter ... and who needs to have Easter explained? Understand the Spiritual progression and there will be no problems fitting music or any activity within the schedule and progression.

A brief, reminder, form of the psychology of the weekend suitable for a team meeting:

Psychologically each one arrived on Thursday with different ideas, expectations and apprehensions. Remembering feelings will allow one to be sensitive to participants' feeling of strangeness. Team can be calm and friendly no matter how excited they feel. All members participate in the Retreat portion of Thursday including cooks. Silence reigns until after Communion on Friday morning.

The mood of Friday is quiet, speculative. Remain friendly and open and present without excitement or tears. Cooks are helpful and gracious with simple food, simple service, and warm friendship.

The weekend is a progression in Rollo, in mood, in psychology.

We tend to remember Cursillos as Saturday or Sunday. Friday was there and it was necessary.LET THERE BE FRIDAY.

Saturday is the day of Jesus, our brother. Warmth, love, tears, laughter, and palanca joy are all part of Saturday. They sing, they laugh and enjoy together ... and they LEARN the TOOLS of being a Christian. Be yourself but watch for too much excitement brings exhaustion. There is still Sunday.


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Cooks may provide lavish food and service on Saturday and are highly visible bringing tangible palanca.

Sunday is the day of the Holy Spirit and the unique Cursillo message of support for lives in Christ. They are relaxed, but tired. They are joyful and loving and loved. Team may hug those who want hugs, laugh and cry where necessary. Cooks -- just love and serve ... tired but willing. Community must be maintained while loving and thanking the extended community on Sunday ... it is difficult but necessary for the Cursillo is not over until AFTER Clausura.

PROGRESSION OF THE THREE DAYSI. Necessity of Understanding the Progression

a. Cursillo = “joyful communication of being Christian”b. Designed to have a deep influence on the participantsc. One long talk divided into fifteen talks

i. Progression from day to dayii. Progression within each day (see chart)

d. Other aspects contributing to the progressioni. Decurias

ii. Musiciii. Mealsiv. Worshipv. Presence of cooks

e. All parts must work together for the successful development of the weekend!

II. The Pre-Cursilloa. Psychological flow of the Cursillo weekend begins before the weekend itselfb. Importance of personal contactc. Become friends with those who will be participantsd. Pray!

III. The Progression of the Three Days

THURSDAYTheme: Preparation – Preliminary Reunion & Spiritual Retreat

“Who am I?” – Face to Face with ChristEmotions: apprehensive, becoming introspective

A. Preliminary Reunion: Provides a break from everyday life Atmosphere is casual, happy, friendly Roles of team not yet defined or emphasized Participants need to be put into an open frame of mind, relaxed, and

welcomed.B. Opening Talk by Recotor(a):

Develops trust, openness, and interest Answers questions Reassures participants that physical needs will be met


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Establishes authority of Recotor(a)(attitude of team needs to emphasize the absolute authority of the Rector(a) as the leader of the weekend)

C. Silent Retreat: Silence maintained from opening talk until Friday morning chapel Allows participants to listen to God Provides time for introspection

D. First Meditation: “Know Yourself”E. Way of the Cross:

Provides an awareness of what our sins have doneF. Second Meditation: “Prodigal Son”

God is our Father. He loves us in spite of ourselves.

FRIDAYTheme: Proclamation – Day of the Introspection and Self-knowledge

General Approach – Presentation of the Life in Grace Focus: A call, A Beautiful Calling Style: low key (clear, natural, convincing) Emotions: tense, nervous, eager, hopeful, head not heart

G. Third Meditation: “Three Glances of Christ” How does Christ see me?

H. Rollo #1: IDEAL Message: Humans need to have an ideal. Emotions: tense, nervous, eager to begin, cynical.

I. Rollo #2: GRACE (Clergy) Message: The GRACE rollo gives an invitation to be a Christian and presents

the life in grace.J. Rollo #3: LAITY

Message: LAITY emphasizes the mission of the laity as the church. Emotions: head says okay, heart not ready; calmer but disturbed by the

enormity of the challenge.K. Rollo #4: FAITH (Clergy)

Message: God gives us the grace to achieve our ideal.L. Rollo #5: PIETY

Message: PIETY shows that true piety is a conscious and growing life in grace.

Emotions: desire to respond; not sure how to do so.

SATURDAYTheme: Conversion – Day of the Person of Christ

Practical Approach How to personally live a life of grace How to be a Christian leader

Focus: personal and individual Style: restrained, calm, explanatory, full Emotions: mixed feelings, tired, joy, expectations

M. Fourth Meditation: “The Person of Christ”


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Christ is the perfect human example.N. Rollo #6: STUDY

Message: Study is necessary to grow in a life of grace. Emotions: mixed again, feel a pull to God.

O. Rollo #7: SACRAMENTS (Clergy) Message: The sacraments give us an external means to live a life of grace.

P. Rollo #8: ACTION Message: Christian action is the personal testimony of one’s own Christian

life. “Make a friend, be a friend, bring a friend to Christ.” Emotions: thoughtful, sleepy.

Q. Rollo #9: OBSTACLES TO GRACE (Clergy) Message: This rollo presents an awareness of how much we can lose due to

sin.R. Rollo #10: LEADERS

Message: Everyone can be a leader for Christ. Emotions: expectation, joy, reassured

SUNDAYTheme: Immersion – Day of the Spirit, “How to” Day

Day of Calling to the Apostolate Specifically Cursillo Focus: how to function in the world; how to be a part of a community of Christians Style: inspirational and confident Emotions: heart on fire, wild, saturated, tired

S. Fifth Meditation: “The Message of Christ to the Cursillistas” Instills a sense of obligation to be involved in the lay apostolate

T. Rollo #11: ENVIRONMENTS Message: This talk explains how to understand our environments and how to

reach out to others. Emotions: apprehensive about reactions, others.

U. Rollo #12: CHRISTIAN LIFE (Clergy) Message: This talk provides practical direction on how to live for Christ

through piety, study and action.V. Rollo #13: CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY

Message: Society will be renewed through group actions. We are not alone and should not feel alone.

Emotions: mixed reactions (leaders must be confident).W. Rollo #14: GROUP REUNION & ULTREYA

Message: This rollo explains and emphasizes the importance of groupingX. Rollo #15: FOURTH DAY (Rector(a))

Message: This final rollo explains how to take Christian principles into our environments. It also emphasizes the importance of group reunion.

IV. The Post-Cursilloa. Goal of Cursillo is NOT to put on Cursillo weekendsb. Group reunion and ultreya are the heart of the Cursillo methodc. Team members and sponsors need to help establish the Cursillo method in the lives of the

new Cursillistas.


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PROGRESSION OF THE TALKSThursday

1st Meditation: “Know Yourself”Way of the Cross2nd Meditation: “Prodigal Son”

Friday3rd Meditation: “Three Glances of Christ”1st Rollo: Ideal2nd Rollo: Grace3rd Rollo: Laity4th Rollo: FaithCrucifixes5th Rollo: Piety

Saturday4th Meditation: “The Person of Christ” 6th Rollo: Study7th Rollo: Sacraments8th Rollo: Christian Action9th Rollo: Obstacles to Grace10th Rollo: Leaders

Sunday5th Meditation: “The Message of Christ to the Cursillistas” 11th Rollo: Environments12th Rollo: Christian Life13th Rollo: Christian Community14th Rollo: Group Reunion & Ultreya15th Rollo: Fourth DayClausura!

MOODS AND THEMES OF THE CURSILLO WEEKENDTHURSDAY EVENING:

Relaxed and reflective.Silence from Meditation until morning chapel.

FRIDAY:Mood: Calm & QuietTheme: Day of Self-knowledge

The first day of the Cursillo is a presentation of the life in grace, that which is fundamental for the Christian life, the direction of the whole of life to God. Simply, a call to live the Christian ideal.


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The talks are low key during the first day. Take into consideration the fact that one of the main points of resistance on the part of the cursillista will usually stem from his/her shying away from our “desire to convert him/her”. The manner should above all aim at clarity, naturalness, and conviction.

The low key approach of the talks ends with the reading of the palanca letters and the Piety rollo. These are the two “shocks” of the first day – the cursillista realizes that s/he is going to have to respond in a way s/he probably never did before.

SATURDAY:Mood: Up and excited, feeling better during the dayTheme: Life and Love of Christ

The second day is a presentation of the life of grace, true piety, like the first day but operates on a different level. It patiently explains how it is done, how the cursillista can do it. Explains what each person must do to form him/herself in the Christian ideal, to become more Christian, to become a leader for Christ.

Two characteristics of each talk on the second day:1. Each talk tells the cursillista what to do and how to do it. It must be explanatory but

not bog down in details.2. Each talk also avoids trying to tell too much (anticipating Sunday).

The talks on the second day, like those on the first, have a definite style. They are, for the most part, explanatory of method. Should be somewhat restrained, with examples that area explanatory, revealing how the method works. They are not primarily inspirational. The inspiring talk of the day should be Leaders, where the whole of the day is summed up in a moving way. As on Friday, the last talk (Leaders) differs in style from those that have preceded it.

On the second day, the focus is primarily individual and personal. All the talks and examples should focus on the individual Christian and his/her relation to the Person Christ and to other individuals. All s/he needs to know at this point is what s/he must be like and what s/he has to do in order to take his place in the operation of a Christian Community in Action.

SUNDAY:Mood: Wild and TiredTheme: To Love and Serve Christ in the Apostolate

The third day, like the second, furthers the explanation of being a Christian leader, and apostle of Christ, a person living the life of grace fully in the modern world, but operations on a different level. It does not focus on the individual so much as on his presence in the world and his relation to other Christians. Especially how s/he must operate with other Christians in a Christian Community in Action.

Sunday involves the presentation of a method, the Cursillo Method. Instructions are given. Instructions, therefore, must be given clearly and carefully.


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Talks: The first two are more low key and clear. The third talk is the most stirring. The last two are enthusiastic. The talks of the third day are stronger, more urgent, and above all, more confident and triumphant, than those of the second day.

Examples given: predominantly examples of a community working together.

SUMMARY:Each talk in the Cursillo has its own place. No talk is purely enthusiastic or a simple call to action. Each talk does its part in laying out a picture and adding another part of the message. In general, there is a buildup in the Cursillo. There is a buildup during each day. The last talk of each day is much more confident and urgent than the first talk which tends to be clearer and more intellectual. There is also a buildup from day to day. The third day is much more stirring than the first. The movement of the Cursillo is that of a careful unfolding, the cursillista being led from one talk to the next, from one day to the next. Each day and each talk brings something new and bring him/her to a greater dedication to God and to the apostolate.

The talks are important, but so is every other aspect of the weekend. Each decuria is a Group Reunion in process of formation. Music is not introduced until the proper point to avoid too early “peaking” and consequent exhaustion. There is a progression even in the meals; i.e. Saturday night’s “special” dinner, Sunday’s more relaxed communal (help yourself) meals. The worship services progress from the fairly formal to relaxed and open. The psychological, spiritual, and teaching progressions all mesh and work together to facilitate the successful development of the weekend.

Spiritually and in every other way, the progression has best been explained by Fr. Ken Whitney thus:

Thursday: Maundy Thursday (self-offering, stripping of our “altars”)Friday: Good Friday, crucifixion of self; death to Christ (death of self to Christ)Saturday: Holy Saturday, quiet absorption and preparationSunday: Easter, resurrection in Christ


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Lutheran Cursillo Movement of Arizona“THE PROGRESSION OF THE WEEKEND” FIGURE


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PREPARING, WRITING & PRESENTING THE ROLLOItems to Be Covered in the Outline of the Rollos1. The “why” of the rollo.

2. Why the rollo is presented when it is.

3. What the rollo should accomplish.

4. How the rollo fits into the progression of the talks.

5. The mentality (attitude) of the participants at the time the rollo is given.

6. The major points the rollo should cover.

7. How much, if any, of the speaker’s own personal witness should be brought into the rollo.

8. What the attitude of the speaker should be in giving the rollo (serious, joyful, joking, total avoidance of humor, etc.).

9. How the rollo relates to the day’s theme.

10. The rollos with which this rollo particularly relates – the rollos for which it specifically prepares the participants, the rollos which it strengthens by building upon, etc.

11. If the rollo is a transition rollo, how does it aid in the transition.

How to Prepare a RolloWe’ve been chosen by God:

to serve on this teamto write a specific rolloto perform our duties as day leader or backup

Just as surely as we were chosen when we made our own Cursillo.

Frequently we feel “Why Me?” when we learn our Rollo assignments. The Lord will tell us “Why Me?” Our leaders have prayed for each of us for a long time and they have prayerfully listened to the Lord’s assignments for us for this specific team. We will each discover that our assignment has been given to us for a particular growth area in our own life.

A rollo is meant to provide the Cursillista with a vision of the new person s/he can become. It is a method of verbal communication that will reflect our Christian lives – our Ideal.

The first part in preparation of a rollo is personal preparation – living a balanced life of Piety, Study and Action … and showing it. We must maintain our Group Reunion and pray a lot. During our preparation and prayer, we must devise a plan for the Rollo and determine whose rollo it is to be … ours or Gods?

Prayer and Preparation Prevent Poor PerformanceHow do I start?

I. PRAY – for God’s will to prepare our hearts, to remove our ego and sense of self.


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II. PRAY – for God to work through us by the power of the Holy Spirit.

III. PRAY – for the wisdom to look at our self and our conscience. This is a good place for Spiritual Direction, confession or examination of conscience.

IV. STUDY and READ – to find in our own life how we are or should be living and applying our rollo to our everyday life. (Sometimes I think it would be easier to stand up for Jesus in front of the lions than to stand for him in the tiny daily decisions I must face.) Effective understanding here insures proper humility in the rollo.a. To know the outline and its purpose. Do the facts touch mind, hear or will?b. Scripture – each rollo is based on Scripture. Find and learn the word of God on your

subject. Use some of it for your points. (Action is based on I Tim 2:4 and Col 4:5,6)c. General Commentary, LEADERS’ MANUAL, Lower your Nets, etc.d. Progression of the weekend – we must understand that there is only 1 long talk divided

into 20 parts (15 rollos and 5 meditations). We must learn how our part fits into the whole.

e. Each outline says, “This is the most important rollo”. That is true, for without it, the message would not be clear.

f. It is not our job to decide the value of the points in the outline. The Rector(a) will check to see that all of them are included. Accept that they are there to advance by one step the word of God to His children in the Cursillo method. Remember the outlines have been prayed about for years by thousands.

g. If you miss a point or leave the outline, you will go off on a tangent and speak to only a few people. Our job is to speak to them ALL. There are no bad rollos. But there are some that speak to more people than others. Those follow the outline points. Remember, we are under authority:

i. Christii. Spiritual Directors

iii. Rector(a)h. The leaders are looking at the whole weekend and how each bit fits together into a whole

(palanca, rollos, prayer, etc.)i. A rollo is not an intellectual argument or appeal, but a statement of God’s word.

ii. Talk to team leaders and others who have given the rollo.iii. Review our own notes from our other weekends.iv. Keep a note pad handy for jotting ideas as they come to us during our days and

during preparation.v. Request prayer palanca from the team, the Group and friends.

V. PRAY AND START TO WRITEa. Check all pointsb. Where applicable, make it personalc. Fit it into our own wordsd. Use examples to reinforce the points. (Witness in only Piety and Ultreya)e. Strive for continuity of vocabulary within the rollos to avoid confusion for the

Cursillistas.


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f. Rollos build and complement each other so agree on appropriate examples which can be used or referred to as points are repeated later in the weekend. (Christian Community builds on Laity, Action, Christian Life)

g. Keep the note pad handy for thoughts and examples to use.h. When references are made to other rollos, be personal in reference, i.e. Ellen or John

stated in the Piety rollo.

VI. GIVE IT TO SOMEONEa. Some can use a tape to hear themselves to see that it sounds as “written.”b. It is good to use a spouse, friend, or Group member to listen.c. To the team so we will all see the progression of the whole and those with later rollos can

hear those upon which they must build.d. Critique by the Rector(a) will not be personal but will insure that this talk is advancing by

one step God’s word in the Cursillo method in the best way … with dignity.e. Be certain it is complete, Scriptures, examples, etc. so the team and Rector(a) will know

exactly what is going to be said on the weekend. (Witness too.)

VII. METHOD OF PRESENTATIONa. Follow the mood and manner from the outline suggestions.b. Let the power of the Holy Spirit take over the delivery.c. Maintain voice level, time frame, eye contact, posture and RADIATE LOVE.d. Let the fact of personal living of the rollo be evident.e. In warmth and gentleness and love remember that Rollistas are not on a stage giving a

performance, but a living example of our Lord.f. Remember the purpose of the Rollo is to do 3 things:

i. Explain some part of the method, of theology or the movement (adherence to outline and examples will accomplish this part).

ii. To give focus for discussion and sharing at the Decurias.iii. To urge and inspire the Cursillista to do what is presented. Our enthusiasm, our

manner will create in them the desire to DO the LIVING of the Rollo.g. BE OURSELVES. It is not necessary to be an accomplished speaker. Words are just as

effective if you sweat until the paper crinkles. It just means you have to practice the rollo.

VIII. REVISION and RESTa. Follow the critique and changes directed. Do not rewrite the talk unless the Rector(a)

directs it.b. Let the talk rest. Then learn and practice it.c. When the talk is finished … QUIT, exit calmly.d. When rollos run long it is because people have kept talking after they have finished

giving their rollo.e. After the rollo is given, be able to say sincerely as John Powell has said,

“I don’t know if I have informed you or even if I have helped you, but, my brother, I have in this moment loved you.” AMEN


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Scripture Readings for Talks1. Ideal Luke 8:11-15 (Open hearts for seed)

2. Grace Matthew 13:45, 46 (Pearl of great value)

3. Laity Ephesians 2:19-22 (We are the church together)

4. Faith II Corinthians 12:9 (His grace is sufficient)

5. Piety Ephesians 3:17-20 (Christ may live in your hearts; become filled with the nature of God)

6. Study II Timothy 3:15-17 (Scripture makes us wise and equips us for life and service)

7. Sacraments Romans 8:38, 39 (Nothing can separate us from the love of God)

8. Christian Action John 13:34, 35 (Christ’s command to love one another and thus be His disciples)

9. Obstacles Ephesians 6:10-18 (Put on whole armor of God…)

10. Christian Leaders Matthew 5:13-16 (Salt and Light)

11. Study & Evangelization of Environments Luke 10:1-3 (The fields are ripe)

12. Life in Grace Colossians 2:6, 7 (Live in union with Christ, keep your roots deep in Him)

13. Christian Community Acts 2:43-47 (Fellowship of Christians spreading the Gospel)

14. Group Reunion & Ultreya Ecclesiastes 4:9-11

15. Fourth Day John 15:4, 5; 7, 8; and 16 (Remain in Christ; you are chosen to bear fruit, be disciples)

Writing and Delivering a Rollo1. Pray before beginning the project. Pray during its preparation and refinement. Pray before

its delivery. This is the Lord’s work, keep it turned over to Him and be open to His influence. Work on it; however as though you were doing it all alone.

2. Begin work on it right away. There is less time to get ready than you think. You have many responsibilities as a team member, many meetings to make, and you have your life to live. There isn’t an abundance of time. Make a schedule for yourself. Set aside a special time each day for a few minutes’ work and prayer on it.

3. Study about the Rollo first. Where does it fit in the progression of the Cursillo? What is the mentality of the moment? What are the major points it is to get across? Is it a witness talk?

4. Read the outline at a single sitting to get an overall grasp of its entirety. Then, examine and make notes on how you feel about giving this Rollo. Intimidated and sure you can never carry it off? Frustrated, because you “never liked that particular Rollo” anyway? Irritated, because “they” gave you “that Rollo” and you could do a much better job than old


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whatsisname in that “other” Rollo? Read, mark, and inwardly digest Romans 12:1, offer it up in prayer and get on about the business.

5. Re-read the outline and follow it. Rewrite the points in your own words … but be sure to include all important points. Note especially italicized points as they are “power points.”

6. Write, following the outline and following the guidelines on how it is to be given. When examples are called for, personal ones from your own experience are best. If it is a witness talk, remember the guidelines and purposes of witnessing. A few simple witness examples can be more effective than “blockbusters” which may intimidate the participants. Set your work aside for a day or two to let it “mellow”.

7. Re-read your work critically against both the book outline and your own. Have you left out anything? Overemphasized minor points? Dragged in extraneous irrelevances? Tighten the writing. Check your grammar, but don’t be unnatural to your own way of speaking. Search out for emphasis “power points.” Use active rather than passive verbs: “He burst through the door” carries a better mental image than “after he had come in.”

8. Share what you have written with a trusted friend/spouse/spiritual director. Make changes they suggest but only if consistent with your own integrity. Don’t let your pride get in the way. Then share it again.

9. When you have a “final” draft, record it for your own benefit. You’ll hear how the talk “sounds” and will make a number of changes where it “reads”, it does not “listen” well. Tape and listen again … and again. The point is, this is a talk, not a paper being read.

10. Offer it in team with true openness. Accept suggestions as they are given … in loving charity. Ask questions.

11. A Rollo is not to be memorized! A Rollo is not to be read! A Rollo is to be given. Be prepared really to share yourself, even when the talk does not call for actual sharing. You must still be completely present during your talk and comfortable with what you are saying. This gives you freedom to move about, use eye contact and body language without awkwardness.

12. As a rule, do not succumb to the temptation to “rewrite” your whole Rollo the day before you are to deliver it. The doubts that assail you are put there by The Great Deceiver … don’t listen to him! Before you are to deliver your Rollo, offer it up in prayer in the Chapel and then trust the Lord to bring His light through your words.

13. As you enter the Rollo Room, before you say a word, pause and exhale (you’ve been holding your breath, haven’t you?). Plant your feet and body on a “platform”, establish some eye contact and begin only when you are ready. The dramatic pause will have them hanging on your every word and you will be out of the starting blocks at a pace that allows you comfort and a sense of oneness with your listeners. In all except the first Rollo, you will begin with prayer.


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14. Audio-visual aids are useful, but only if they help make the point rather than obscure it. They are never a substitute for thorough preparation.

15. The delivery of the talk depends on its nature. Study has shown you that Ideal is “straight”; Piety has much witness; Christian Action, many examples; Fourth Day, much reassurance, humor, etc. Stay within the framework of your talk.

16. One of the previous Rollistas may have missed or underemphasized a major point and the Rector(a) may ask you to pick up on it.

17. Your listeners are not critics. They want to know you and to hear what you have to say. You will not be graded, so relax and be conversational in sharing with friends.

18. When the Rollo is over, stop. This sounds too simple, but it isn’t. In other words, don’t thank them for listening; don’t “hope you’ve understood what I’ve said”; don’t trail off. When you have said all you planned in your outline to say, stop and quietly (don’t run!) leave the room.

19. When you have given thanks for having “gotten through” your Rollo, forget it. Don’t worry about what you wish you’d said. You still have a job with the rest of the Cursillo and it needs your full attention.

Rollo Writing and Presentation (Another Perspective)A. Writing the rollo:

1. What is it?a. It is 1/15 of a very long talk with its own special message and place on the weekend.b. It is not an argument or appeal but a statement of God’s word.c. It must fit correctly into the Progression of the Weekend with other talks, palanca, prayer,

etc.

2. The purpose of the rollo:a. To explain some part of the method, theology, or the movement (Following the outline

with examples will accomplish this.)b. To give focus to discussion and sharing at the decuriasc. To urge and inspire the participant to do what is presented (Our enthusiasm and manner

will inspire them to DO the LIVING of the rollo.)

3. Begin with prayer:a. For God’s will to prepare our hearts, eliminate ego, and the inflated sense of selfb. For the Holy Spirit to work through usc. For wisdom and courage to look deeply at ourselves to find how we should apply the

rollo to our own daily living

4. Read the entire rollo and comments through at one sitting.a. What is the purpose of this rollo?b. Study the accompanying scriptures.


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c. Where and how does this rollo fit into the Progression of the Weekend?d. Pray and request prayer from others for the humility to see how the writing should go.

5. Resources: (I need help!)a. Entire outline with comments and scripturesb. Catholic or Via de Cristo Clarification of Outlines or the Leaders’ Manualc. Others on or off the team who have previously written this talkd. Core leaders and spiritual directorse. The “Evil One” is not happy that you have accepted this call. He will try to sidetrack

and discourage you. Do not listen to him! Pray and share this problem with a spiritual director. We are here for each other.

6. Begin prayerful writing.a. INCLUDE ALL POINTS IN THE OUTLINE with emphasis on power points or

phrases (caps or underlined).b. Use your own words making it personal where possible.c. Use examples to reinforce points, especially main points.d. Strive for continuity of vocabulary and grammar to avoid confusing listeners.e. Keep a notepad (or 2) handy to record insights and ideas while they are fresh in your

mind.

7. Preparing for presentation:a. Remember, a rollo is neither a memorized speech nor a talk read word by word. It is

a talk which is given.b. First, tape record your rollo and listen carefully, making corrections you can hear.

Use any audio visuals and STAY WITHIN THE TIME FRAME.c. Third, make appropriate changes and pray and practice, pray and practice.

B. Rollo Presentation and Critique:

1. Presenting a rollo for team:a. Go prepared with all audio visuals you will use on the weekend.b. Follow the mood and manner the outline suggests.c. Maintain voice level, time frame, eye contact, posture and radiate love.d. Let the power of the Holy Spirit take over the delivery of the talk.e. Let your personal living of this rollo be evident.f. Remember in love and gentleness that rollistas are not on stage giving a performance

but are being a living example of our Lord.

2. The team critique:a. In the very early days of the movement, the team wrote the rollos (at least in part).

This may seem like a very time-consuming and inefficient method, but there are very good reasons fro this.(1) This prevents the Rollista from thinking this is just “God’s and my little thing”

rather than a part of the work of a called group of people working to understand exactly what God specifically wants from this weekend.


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(2) The critiquing process itself, done in a patient, Christ-like manner, is one of the strongest community builders for the rollo team.

Remember the primary purpose of team formation – THE BUILDING OF CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY.b. The team critique is intended to be a gentle and loving evaluation of the effectiveness

of the written rollo and its presentation within the Progression of the Weekend.c. Go into the critique understanding that there are probably at least minor changes you

will be asked to make. Even the “old pros” almost always find some changes necessary.

d. Please try not to take loving correction and suggestion as personal criticism. It is never intended personally. This is not about criticism, but about finding the direction Christ wants to lead us.

3. Post critique:a. If necessary, seek spiritual direction from core leaders or spiritual directors

concerning changes requested.b. Make sure the Rector(a) sees and accepts your changes . Then back to prayer and

practice.c. NOW, LET IT REST! Don’t be tempted to continue making additional changes .

You have other team responsibilities. Be assured that you have done your best, and God will speak through you. Time to move on.

4. Critiquing other rollos:a. When critiquing other rollos, take notes, smile and be an attentive listener.b. Direct all comments through the Rector(a) and only when requested.c. Make all comments in Christ-like love as you would want them given to you.

Audio / Visual Aids for Your Rollo Posters should be large with a yellow or white background. Use contrasting or bold

colors for the letters or figures, which should also be large. For overhead transparencies, use overhead transparency pens of different colors. Again,

make your letters large. Express only one or two points or ideas per poster or overhead transparency. An overhead projector, easels, a chalkboard, and a bulletin board are available for your

rollo. Make your needs known to the core team before the weekend. Use props where they are appropriate. Props that have been used include rocks, plants,

violins, sewing machines, teddy bears, jigsaw puzzles… Use your imagination! When you illustrate your point with an appropriate, clever and

well-designed visual aid, the participants are more likely to remember that point. Do you have any ideas of other good visual aids?

Music can be used after your rollo beginning with the Piety rollo. (Sorry, no music for Ideal or Laity!) The music can be vocal or instrumental and should reflect the main points of your talk. The music should be on a cassette tape or CD.

If you have a large number of Bible reference, you may want to make a handout listing those references. There should be enough copies for both the team and participants (about 54). Mention in your rollo that you will be handing out the Bible references so that the listeners will know they don’t need to write every reference in their notes.


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You may also have other information that you want to pass out to the participants. This could be information such as words to the music played after your rollo, where to order books, the book list for the Study Rollo, etc.

Your audio visual aids should be used when you give your rollo in team. They are a part of your rollo, and they should be seen by the team before the weekend. If you cannot have them done, please indicate during your rollo what you are planning to have.

Backups need to prepare their audio visual aids as though they are the primary Rollista. Up until the time that the rollo is actually given on the weekend, there is always a chance that the backup rollo will be given. This means that backups should bring their rollos and their audio visuals to the weekend!

Save your audio visuals! You may be asked to give this rollo for another team.

Rollo Presentation in TeamThere will be a short break before each rollo to allow the Rollista to get ready for her rollo. This is the time when she should ask a Co to get her prayer partner.

Rector(a) will introduce each Rollista.

When you listen to the rollos, listen as though this were the weekend itself. Be attentive. Have eye contact with the Rollista. Look interested. Be encouraging – smile. TAKE NOTES! Everyone is to take notes. This is the only way the Rollista can judge him/her pace. It will also help you remember the main points of the rollo. You will be leading table work on each rollo given during the weekend, and you will need to know the main points of each rollo. Remember that the Rollista is sharing him/herself with you in his/her rollo. Enjoy listening to the rollo and make the Rollista comfortable in sharing it with you.

After the rollo has been presented, the team will be invited to make comments on the characteristics of the rollo presentation. It is important to remember that the team should be positive and supportive of each of its members. The areas of rollo presentation which are open to comment include:

Eye contact PosturePersonal contact Evidences of tensionGestures Continuity and clarity of examplesVolume & modulation Amount of “reading” apparent during deliveryClarity GrammarAudio visuals (easy to see and understand?)Other areas of public speaking guidelines

In order to ensure that only valid points are made to the Rollista, all comments are to be made to the Rector(a). ALL COMMENTS ARE TO BE MADE TO THE RECTOR(A)! After the team members have made their comments to the Rector(a), s/he will present the valid critique points to the Rollista. It is only those points that should be used in making changes to the Rollo or in making changes in the presentation.

Any outline points which need to be emphasized more or were covered very well will also be identified.


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The Pastors will close the critique by commenting on any doctrinal or theological changes necessary in the Rollo and giving a positive reinforcement of the Rollista.

Main Points for Discussions After the TalksIdeal

It is important to realize what our priorities are, what we are headed for – our use here of free time, money, and direction in which our thoughts take flight.

Our true priority determines what life means to us and how we live it. A true man/woman will have an attainable priority toward which to direct their life.

Grace Grace is the gift God fives us that makes us holy, godlike, and members of God’s family. It is the most important thing that can happen to a person. It is our ideal, the greatest ideal possible.

Laity We are the church. The salvation of the world depends on us as members of the church. Laypersons will work with the clergy, being part of the priesthood in Christian love.

Faith God gives us all the help we need to live in faith, but without God we can do nothing. It’s up to us: If we want to, God will make it possible. These three days are a means by which God is helping us.

Piety The life of piety is living the life of grace – conscious and growing. We will direct all of our life to God. The life of piety is natural, manly/womanly, courageous, and joyful.

Study We will learn how to live our whole life in a Christian way. We need to understand, deepen, and equip ourselves to bear witness to Christ in our lives

of grace. We must study regularly.

Sacraments The sacraments are ways for us to come to know and live with Christ. The sacraments are ways in which Christ makes our lives better, more in grace. Since Christ will do this for us, we should love Christ completely in return.

Christian Action We bring others to Christ. To bring others to Christ, we have to live a deep piety. We do this by making friends with others, becoming their friends, and making them

friends of Christ.


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Obstacles to a Life of Grace Even though life in grace is our only real happiness, we can lose it through sin. We lose it by giving in to temptation and through our own lack of fervor for Christ. We overcome all obstacles through prayer, by avoiding sin, and by spiritual direction.

Leaders We have a chance to “disciple” the world for Christ. We do this by working hard to be like Christ and to bring the world to Him. We do this by trying to be saints or little Christs.

Changing the World The world of people around us needs to be made Christian. We do this by getting ourselves ready to bring Christ and his message to them. We do this by trying to bring others to realize what it means to be a Christian and to

follow Christ.

Study and Evangelization of Environments Movement for the Christian transformation of the world, we can be a part. We have to work hard at living in grace, at directing our whole lives to God. We need a plan to do this that fits us, but it must be attainable. You should talk it over with your spiritual director after these three days. This has been a great help to me (the leader).

Christian Life Piety, study, action will allow us to show God’s love to others and His world. We will work with others to build up the church, to form living Christian communities, to

be the Body of Christ. Christ will triumph if we work as members of the church.

Christian Community Cursillo is a very effective method of persevering and growing in the Christian life. We

should not “go it alone.” We have to attend every week and work at being intimate Christians with others. This has been a great help to me (the leader).

Fourth Day Group and Ultreya We are sent out to be full Christians, apostles. There will be obstacles, but we have the means to overcome them – especially at the

Cursillo groups and ultreya gatherings. It works. Our lives can be a continuing growth walk with Christ, others, His Church and

His World.

DECURIA (TABLE) LEADERSGeneral RolesAfter each rollo there will be a 30-minute reflection period. The first fifteen minutes will cover discussion of the rollo; what it said, what they derived from it. The second fifteen minutes will be


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devoted to art work or similar activity to reflect the main points. A few minutes at the end are spent writing a summary statement of discussion and activity.

Before the rollo: Build community. Model behavior.Be a friend, make a friend, bring that friend to Christ.Be on time to the table for the rollo.Make sure everyone is present at the table.Move table seating around as weekend progresses.

During the rollo: Be attentive to the rollista.Take notes – you are their model. Set example.

After the rollo: Initiate discussion. You provide the key questions.Equal opportunity provided – urge participation, pass around assignments.Lead & facilitate – don’t dominate, let participants talk, but keep to the subject.Stay on schedule.Be sensitive to individual needs (smoking, bathroom).Be yourself – be sincere in your love.Problems with participants should be directed to spiritual directors or Rector(a)

at first convenience.Help clean up.

TeamFacilitator – activeObserver - passive

ParticipantsTable PresidentTable Secretary

Role of Team Decuria FacilitatorLike John the Baptist, the facilitator works more directly at the beginning and continues to throughout the entire weekend.

1. Rotates at least twice daily with observer. We cannot “see” when “talking”.2. Stimulates and guides discussions. You are not expected to have all the answers!3. Gently challenges the group with questions. This gets everyone participating and moves the

discussion to a level of significance. AVOID “WHY” questions. Use “How-When-Do you think?” questions. Do not phrase questions in a negative way. Invites, but does not force, everyone to participate.

4. Avoids gripe sessions.5. Throws questions directed to the leader back to the group most of the time.6. Listens actively with whole self. Tries to identify feelings stated.7. Asks for clarification of unclear statements.8. Summarizes discussions:a. When a major point is finished and before going on.b. When discussion gets long and drawn out or someone is monopolizing.


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c. Shortly before close of discussion.9. If discussion is wandering, restates the question.10. Gently invites silent members to speak, “what do you think about that, Mary?” while allowing

members to pass if they choose.11. Sets time limits. Rector(a) has only schedule in rollo room, but you know time.12. Trusts uniqueness of group members.13. Gives rewards and strokes freely. Tries to say something that will let others know they are of

worth and loved by God. Avoid saying things that gives US status.14. If for some reason you should disagree with your fellow team member – discuss your differences

other than at the table.15. Don’t trespass by assuming you know anything about the person beyond what s/he reveals to

you.16. Leader takes notes and participates in everything setting an example. Take your turn in giving

summary and explaining poster, but only to encourage, not to dominate or teach. DO NOT summarize Piety. It is better to let them witness its concepts to each other. It is easier to identify with them.

17. Encourage everyone to help the secretary.18. Encourage participants not to anticipate; everything will fall into place as the weekend

progresses. Leaders must not anticipate or “expect”.19. Respect and accept everyone. Let them know you love them where they are.20. DO NOT READ anyone else’s notes!21. Encourage everyone to take a turn with drawing or coloring.22. If a one-on-one ministry is pulling the discussion apart, ask for a delay in it until a break – then

be available.23. Community with your co-leader freely. Watch for observer’s attempts to facilitate what you may

be missing and help.24. Pray with your co-leader. Pray for and with participants.

Role of Team Decuria Observer1. Is not silent, but a less active participant in discussions. You cannot “see” when you are

“talking” and thinking of what to say. When group is puzzled, asks clarifying question, etc. to assist.

2. Changes roles at least twice daily each day of the Cursillo with the team decuria facilitator.3. Watches the group during rollos and discussion and drawing.4. Observes body language of individuals.5. Watches non-verbal clues, tones, and effects.6. Observes atmosphere of group… Tense? … Relaxed?7. Observes balance of participation. If it is not balanced, aids in drawing into discussion those not

participating.8. Observes if group depends too much on its leader.9. Determines if the group both tells and asks.10. Observes how the leader affects the group.11. Observes how the group affects the leader.12. Helps determine if the goal of each discussion are clear and asks clarifying questions if they are

not.13. Observes if the poster reflects the group’s agreement during discussion.14. Reports and discusses the group’s dynamics with the facilitator.


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15. Prays for the individuals in the group decuria and for Christ to be the center of the group. Time will be provided each evening for table partners to pray together for their decuria.

16. Watches for “games” people area playing as a personal defense to keep from being real and authentic. Discuss with table partner and pray together for that individual. Then observe gradual changes in manner and dropping of masks. Notice how the group aids such an individual.

Miscellaneous Policies1. Team members are present in rollo room for all rollos, songs, etc. to set an example. Honor the

time requests of Rector(a). Be first and help assembly.2. If questions occur that cannot be answered then because of time or the planned progression, ask

that they be written down. There will be a question and answer period later.3. Remain in and help maintain community on Sunday.4. Know the progression and your part in it.5. Remain positive in attitude and approach.6. Spiritual directors are at the Cursillo for the participants. Rector(a) and Co-Rector(a)s are there

for the team. Seek help accordingly.7. Be prepared to lead Model Grouping following the Group Reunion & Ultreya rollo.8. Assist in the movement of your Decuria during picture taking.9. Report illness to Rector(a) immediately.10. Guide participants away from the phones.11. Please do not ask the kitchen team for things unless you have been requested to do so by the

Rector(a). They are tightly scheduled.12. Unless you need a few minutes to check the time schedule and wash hands, please be available

and approachable during breaks and meals. Remember, you have left your unresolved things on the altar until Monday.

13. Summaries should be a group synthesis – not just a playback of the talk. They should be made for EVERY rollo. We can eliminate posters on Sunday.

ConclusionA leader is: OPEN, SENSITIVE, AWARE, AVAILABLE, SHARES, LISTENS, RESPONDS,

SEES, LOVES. If at first, participants think the caring is fake, they’ll find out if you mean it.

DO: PARTICIPATE – COMMUNICATEDON’T: DOMINATE – ANTICIPATE

In all these suggestions, you will have to find the words that fit your style, your personality. Believe in your own gifts of relating to people and remember the Lord is especially present with you. Your presence as a real, dedicated, and responsible person committed to Christ, can be the most effective tool for inspiring others to follow Christ.

Finally, remember that Jesus called those who would follow him to become fishers of men. When the disciples fished without Jesus (John 21:1-5), their nets came up empty. So…


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ROLLO TEAM TRAININGGroup Dynamics - IntroductionUnderstanding of the Dynamics of Groups is essential for leading a group of any size. The Rector(a) must understand the Group Dynamics concept to plan for team meetings and to run them effectively. Each team member must understand the working of groups to understand what happens at the Decuria.

What Group Dynamics is and How it WorksA “Group” is a number of persons or things considered together as being related in some way.“Dynamics” is the pattern or history of growth, change, and development in any field.

Thus, Group Dynamics is a term to describe something that is constantly taking place in a group. Because of these “dynamics”, the group is always moving, changing, interacting, and reacting. Group dynamics is not something you have or don’t have. Every group has dynamics. A good rule of thumb is, “When informed attention is paid to group process, the chances increase that a group will be able to reach maturity and fulfill its potential.”

Both CONTENT and PROCESS are important in the group. Focusing only on content and failing to appreciate the process of interaction will allow a good deal of what is taking place in the group to be missed.

Groups exist to accomplish tasks. At decurias, the tasks are summaries, posters, discussion, internalizing information, focusing on individual’s feelings about material, and building friendships and communities based on Christ’s message.

Three needs exist in a group. First of all, people need to fulfill the group tasks. But before a task can be effectively begun, two other needs must be met: these are MAINTENANCE AND INDIVIDUAL NEEDS.

Maintenance needs are physical needs – is it too hot or too cold, is there a need for a pillow or a coat, is there a need for a rest room break, does someone want coffee, is someone cramped, etc. People will take care of physical needs before they can think about the task. The leader must program for the fulfillment of these needs or the people won’t be able to contribute to the group task or tasks.

Individual needs are about listening to ME. I must tell you about me. Even if we have been apart only minutes, I am different now then 30 minutes ago and I may need to tell you “how” and “why”. At the beginning of a group, I need to tell you about me and how I perceive my role in this group. Maybe I must tell you about my sick child or the car that just missed me in the parking lot. Maybe I must tell you that I don’t belong in this group. Until I tell you about me, I cannot effectively work on the group task. The table leaders job, meet these needs. When maintenance and individual needs are met, then the business of the task can begin. Because this takes more time at the beginning of a group, 40 minutes will be allowed for summaries and posters following Ideal Rollo.

These are certain types of people who are likely to be found in groups. Among these are the encourager, the harmonizer, the standard setter, the follower, the imitator, the contributor, the


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information seeker, the information giver, the organizer, and the evaluator. In addition, there may appear some who represent dysfunctional group roles. These might include the dominator, the blocker, the avoider, the aggressor, the whiner, the recognition seeker, and the clown.

Groups are most comfortable when the task is being accomplished and the table leaders are responsible for that. These table leaders must be trained to keep the conversation on target, to discourage side conversations; and to encourage each person to participate. A good rule of thumb is to ask many questions. The one asking questions is the one in control, not the one talking. Active listening must be taught. In the supplement to this manual, there is a section for table leaders cataloging the necessary methods. Included in this catalog is the place of feeling expression and its importance.

Dynamics – content plus process – are the forces that operate to hold a group together or cause it to fail. Dynamics can be positive, negative, or neutral. Watch for dynamics. Look at your group.

Unique Characteristics of Christian GroupsDecurias are unique Christian groups. In them, we build community. Prayer supports them.

COMMUNITY = COMMON UNITY IN CHRIST

Cursillo can give the participants new meaning and direction. Ideas and concepts are planted there, but, like seeds, the germination and harvest takes place at different times because the soils are different.

The tasks of summaries and posters are incidental to the unstated goal of learning the meaning of the talks for each person. This can be accomplished through in-depth sharing of our Christian experience. Normally, on the first day, the decurias is simply a working group. Almost certainly by the end of the 3-Day, it is a community of faith and love.

The in-depth sharing is a critical part of the process that produces that transformation. Each member gives his idealism, self-surrender, and spirit of love. In its uniqueness with Christ, this group, this table, can be a place of joy, an oasis, a party, a place of refuge, a place of healing. Much can happen when committed Christians get together and really care for one another.

There are 4 freedoms basic to sharing from Christ our center. The process of sharing at the decurias helps to produce these freedoms:

to trust – This fosters freedom to share without fear. to “be one” – I can be one with you in Christ. Oneness comes with community. to lead – Christ is our head and we share leadership roles, each doing our part.

No one must do it all. to fail – We must allow Christ to succeed even in our perceived failure.

Prayer is another essential component in the transformation process from group to community. Decurias pray together. Before, or following the Action Rollo. Table leaders initiate spontaneous prayer at that time. Other opportunities for prayer together may present themselves.


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CHRISTIAN GROUP LEADERS are shepherds – gentle guides. In one sense, they must be like John the Baptist, sent by God to prepare the way for Jesus, the Savior. However, unlike John, our group leaders must be gentle and unassuming. As Jesus’ ministry began, we hear less and less of John the Baptist. His role had ended. During the weekend our role does not end, but our need to be preparing and directing and ministering diminishes as other decurias members do that for each other. As people feel Jesus’ love from each other and from outside the 3-Day, they open up to each other.

Group leaders encourage members to seek spiritual direction and confession.

Model Decuria – The Role PlayThe purpose of the role-play of a Decuria is to focus the attention of individual team members on the events that occur at a Decuria. We have used a humorous approach, for learning with humor is fun. It is universally easier to focus on a difficult subject when it is held up first in humor. No intention of ridicule is meant or should be allowed for each ‘person’ or ‘character type’ we use is meant to be “larger than life”, exaggerated and overplayed for effect. Note: It is important to understand that this role-play has possible real situations that the team will need to handle.

We use one Decuria with 5 or 6 team members playing roles of participants and 2 experienced team members as Facilitator and Observer. The rest of the team watches, enjoys, learns and comments later.

When the Rector(a) and Group Dynamics presenter have agreed on the cast, individuals should be asked in advance if they would assist in the Role Play. Their part, with a brief description, should be given to them in writing before the model Decuria begins – not too long before, however, because their minds create more and more havoc with more and more time.

The team must be told before Model Decuria begins that these individuals each represent ONE characteristic of persons who could be at their Decuria. No Decuria will be like this one since you have chosen it to have specific character traits. Ask them to watch each individual carefully. Note their reactions and the reaction of the group to him/her. IT IS IMPERATIVE TO EMPHASIZE THAT INDIVIDUALS ARE PLAYING A ROLE THAT HAS BEEN ASSIGNED TO THEM.

Set up: A table is best, but a circle on the floor with 3 feet or so of space left as a buffer in which the cast may ‘play’ is acceptable. There should be paper and a few crayons to set the stage for posters and discussion.

The Role Play: A few minutes of a rollo can be given for demonstrating the taking of notes and for allowing the players a chance to get over any ‘stage fright’ they may have. The Group Dynamics presenter gives instructions to the Decuria to listen to the Rollo, take notes, and have discussion to draw the posters. Five minutes of the rollo is enough … longer is unfair to the rollista since those who have experienced this before become inattentive.

Two table leaders are asked to play the role of facilitator and observer at this Model Decuria. The observer’s role is paramount since the poor facilitator will be kept quite busy just reacting to the personalities of the Decuria. Select experienced table leaders and preferably ones who have seen this demonstration before. Emphasize that no Decuria has ever been like this one. (Sometimes the


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Co-Rector(a)’s are the only ones who agree to lead. That is OK as long as other experienced leaders have had a chance.)

With a combination taken from the following group, you will have a Decuria filled with personalities seeking control of the group in their own way. Even a skilled table leader needs more than the 10-15 minutes you will give them to sort out the personalities and interactions. Have the team members play their roles to the hilt. It will make everyone laugh. Having laughed, it is easier to examine the substance of the presentation.

Characters in Model DecuriaWhiney Willy – complains, finds fault with things. He has every problem, every challenge and tells all in great detail. Makes “mountains out of molehills”. It’s too hot, too cold, too long, and not good enough. (Women may name this character Whiney Willa)

Stubborn Stu – Won’t take notes. Won’t draw, etc. Doesn’t want to be there. He came because his wife made him. (Stubborn Susanna)

Lonely Lou – Withdrawn, won’t join in … Even pulls his chair back out of the circle or back from the table. He responds with a shake of his head or a rare word … if anybody continues to know he is there. (Lonely Louise)

Talkative Tom – He is all knowing, all saying. He has the answer for everybody and talks about it even if he doesn’t. (Talkative Tina or Loudmouth Lou)

Clerical Clarence – His theology will impress us all … hopefully his charity as well. (Not just for men’s teams … consider them a possibility for women’s as well. Name for her – Liturgical Lisa or Clerical Cleo)

Helpful Harvey is the group ‘Mother’ – He’ll help you whether you want it or not. He always “knows” how you feel, what you “intended” to say and what you “didn’t mean”. He attempts to smooth over difficult questions and tries not to allow anything negative to emerge. (Helpful Helen)

Hysterical Al – He carries his personal “wailing wall”. He cries at everything he shares. Watch out for Helpful Harvey! Between the two, they will try to control the group. (Hysterical Alice)

The previous part is fun but the productive part is the discussion that follows the presentation. The first order of importance is to have comments or a report from the Observer Table Leader of the Model Decuria. There may be questions because of that report. NEVER ALLOW A MEMBER OF THE ‘CAST’ TO DEFEND OR EXPLAIN HIS ‘ROLE PLAY’. That puts him/her back into the role in the minds of others as well as him/herself. Let a leader or Rector(a) field that kind of question. Encourage the observing members of the team to respond before the participants speak. Since this is a time when everyone participates by observing, everyone needs an opportunity to speak.

GUIDELINES FOR FISHERMENI. PRAY


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a. Be in constant prayer for each person at your table.b. Pray together with your table.

II. ACCEPTa. Let God surprise you with those he has put at your table. Each person there has gifts to

offer. Be open to receiving.b. Each person experiences Cursillo uniquely. Respect and accept every person’s feelings.

There is no “right” response.c. Respect the participant’s privacy, but be open to sharing.d. Don’t impose your ideas on the others.

III. ALLOWa. You know what is coming next, but the participant does not. Let him/her discover his/her

own answer, experience his/her own revelations.b. Respect the experiences of others, whatever they may be.

Avoid:i. Judgment – some life experiences may seem strange or even distasteful to you.

However, don’t make judgments or allow other at the table to do so.ii. Helping – avoid the temptation to respond with a solution. Each of us carries

within him/herself the answers to our problems. These answers simply need to be uncovered.

iii. Band aids – allow people their emotions and feelings. Don’t rush in with the quick answer (band aid) which can have the effect of putting up a detour sign instead of building a bridge.

c. If we are to cooperate with God, we must begin to hear people with His ears, love them with His heart, and see them with His eyes. See the potential of each person and call it forth by your attitude of acceptance.

IV. FACILITATEa. Listen with love.

i. Use your eyes, your whole body.ii. Paraphrase (don’t parrot) what the person is saying. This clarifies

misunderstanding and lets the other know you’re with him/her.iii. Dig for the meaning behind the statement.iv. Don’t agree, saying, “I know just how you feel”. You don’t know, and that cuts

off discussion.v. Don’t “trespass” by assuming you know anything about the person beyond what

s/he reveals verbally to you.b. Ask questions.

i. Probe gently with questions. This gets everyone participating and moves the discussion to a level of significance.

ii. Pursue a point to draw people out as much as they are willing.iii. If you make a statement rather than ask questions, discussion will stop.

c. Participate in the discussion.i. Do not lead by dominating; a table President has been selected to lead.


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ii. If the President is having trouble drawing people out, gently and tactfully help him/her. Do not force quiet people to talk, but encourage them by your warmth and acceptance.

iii. If one or two are dominating, help the President direct questions to the others.iv. Encourage shared participation in posters and other table expressions. Don’t let

one person be appointed Resident Writer or Artist.v. You don’t know the progression of talks as well as the main parts of each rollo.

But you are not the teacher. If your table is missing the point, tell the Rector(a) or one of the Co’s as soon as possible.

V. BE QUIETa. The table is not for you; it is your gift to the participants.b. Every time you dominate the conversation, a candidate loses that much of “his/her”

Cursillo.c. Don’t be afraid of silence – it can be very creative.

VI. SEEK HELP. YOU ARE NOT ALONEa. Talk to pastors about problems.b. Ask for assistance from Rector(a) and Co’s.c. Communicate with your co-table leader.

i. Share willingly.ii. Pray together.

d. If one-on-one ministry is pulling the discussion apart, ask for a delay until break – and then be available.

VII. BE POSITIVEa. Do not phrase questions in a negative way.b. Avoid gripe sessions.

VIII. WITNESS FROM PERSONAL EXPERIENCEa. Guide discussion always to the person’s individual thoughts, feeling and experience.

Discussion of someone else’s experience only becomes an academic game.b. However, your own experiences (or lack of it) with Christ is truth to be shared.

IX. The cook team has a great amount of work to do. Please do not bother them or ask for anything unless you are asked to do so by the Rector(a).

X. Watch for illness at your table and report it promptly.

XI. Do not allow participants to make outside phone calls or contacts. If an emergency arises, refer it to the Rector(a).

REMINDERS ABOUT THE WEEKEND Dress and behavior should follow the progression of the weekend. Be causal and

comfortable. This is how the participants were told to dress.


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Bring comfortable shoes and a change of shoes. This is especially important for the cooks. Bring earplugs and flashlight, bedding, personal items. Rollo Team: Return promptly from breaks! Do what you are asked to do! You are the

example for the participants. Rollo Team: Be present for the participants during breaks and meals. Review all your handouts before the weekend. Cooks are to be in the Rollo Room only when they are assigned to be there and when they

are listening to their prayer partner’s rollo. If you have extra time, take advantage of it by lying down for a siesta or taking a shower. Remember to pray for the rollos and the table work wherever you are.

Rollistas are asked to stay out of the kitchen area. Please try to go only where the participants are allowed to go.

Please don’t wear perfumes/colognes or other fragrances during the weekend. This is a “maintenance need” for people with allergies.

There will be food in the rollo team sleeping area on Thursday afternoon for those who cannot eat before they come.


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DE COLORES (THE SONG)

De Colores, De Colores se visten Los campos en la primavera;De Colores, De Colores son los Parjaritos que vienen de afuera; De Colores, De ColoresEs el arco iris que vemos lucir;Y por eso los grandes amoresDe muchos Colores me gustan a mi';Y por eso los grandes amoresDe muchos Colores me gustan a mi'.

Canta el Gallo, canta el GalloCon el kiri, kiri, kiri, kiri, kiri;La Gallina, la GallinaCon el cara, cara, cara, cara, cara;Los Polluelos, los PolluelosCon el pio, pio, pio, pio, pio;Y por eso los grandes amoresDe muchos Colores me gustan a mi';Y por eso los grandes amoresDe muchos Colores me gustan a mi'.

(Phonetic pronunciation)

Day co-lo-race, day co-lo-race say vee-steen lohs cam-pohs en lah pree-mah-vay-rah;Day co-lo-race, day co-lo-race son lohsPar-ha-ree-tohs kay vee-en-en day ah-fware-ah;Day co-lo-race, day co-lo-raceEs el ar-co ee-reece kay vay-mohs loo-seer;Ee poor aye-soh lohs grand-dace ah-more-esday moo-chos co-lo-race may goo-stahn ah mee;Ee poor aye-soh lohs grand-dace ah-more-esday moo-chos co-lo-race may goo-stahn ah mee.

Con-tell guy-oh, con-tell guy-ohcon el key-ree, key-ree, key-ree, key-ree, key-ree;La guy-ee-nah, la guy-ee-nahcon el kar-ah, kar-ah, kar-ah, kar-ah, kar-ah;Lohs poe-ay-lohs, lohs poe-ay-lohscon el pee-oh, pee-oh, pee-oh, pee-oh, pee;Ee poor aye-soh lohs grand-dace ah-more-esday moo-chos co-lo-race may goo-stahn ah mee;Ee poor aye-soh lohs grand-dace ah-more-esday moo-chos co-lo-race may goo-stahn ah mee.


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Lutheran Cursillo Movement of ArizonaDE COLORES (AN EXPLANATION)

A Few Notes about DE COLORESfrom Oct. 1972 Ultreya Magazine

The term "De Colores" comes from a Spanish folk song that has no religious significance. It has remained popular in Spain for many years in the same tradition as many of our folk songs.

In Majorca, a Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea, where the Cursillo was founded, the participants make their Cursillo in a monastery in the country and are usually conveyed to and from the location by bus.

One day on the way back from the Cursillo weekend, the bus broke down in the fields and while waiting for it to be repaired, the Cursillistas passed the time by singing. Someone spontaneously broke into "De Colores" and pointed to the colors of the field, flowers, and roosters surrounding them, symbolically comparing all the colors to a soul living in sanctifying grace.

From then on it became one of the songs sung while traveling back from the Cursillo and, in time, became associated with the Cursillo movement in that way, even though it is not the "official song" of the Cursillo movement.

A rough translation of the words of the song:

The colors, the colors visit the countryside in the spring;The colors, the colors are the birds that come from afar;The colors, the colors are the rainbow light that we see;And because of this, the great love of many colors pleases me!And because of this, the great love of many colors pleases me!

Sings the rooster, sings the rooster with the "Kiri, kiri, kiri, kiri, kiri";The hen, the hen with the "Cara, cara, cara, cara, cara";The chicks, the chicks with the 'Pio, pio, pio, pio, pio";And because of this, the great love of many colors pleases me!And because of this, the great love of many colors pleases me!


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