MY CURSILLO SMALL FAITH SHARING GROUP
“As they approached the village to which they were going, he gave the impression that he was going on farther. But they urged him, ‘Stay with us, for it is nearly evening and the day is almost over.’ So he went in to stay with them. And it happened that, while he was with them at table, he took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them. With that their eyes were opened and they recognized him, but he vanished from their sight.” - Lk 24:28-31
I lost my job of 10 years. I quickly went into the job hunt.
As hours became days, days became weeks, and weeks became months, I fell into despair and eventually into depression. On top of that, I unexpectedly left my parish of 15 years.
Simply put, I was homeless professionally and spiritually.
My desolation resulted in unhealthy behaviors where such things like alcohol became a dear friend to dull the pain I was feeling. I was isolating myself where the devil lurked nearby, conversing with me on why I should not only leave the church but also my faith entirely.
What kept me going was the Cursillo movement of the Diocese of San Jose. As their Assistant Lay Director, I had to be a leader keeping up my smile, energy, and most of all, faith leading this community closer to Christ in their lives, homes, parishes, workplaces, and in communities.
My friend Chris, also the leader of my Cursillo weekend retreat, noticed that I was “off” and suggested that I join a Cursillo small faith sharing group.
Although the devil taunted me with excuses, I joined a men’s group led by my friend, Mickey, on Friday afternoons. As the men enjoyed each other’s company, it’s not unheard of to give warm hugs as brothers in Christ.
After opening in prayer, reading the Gospel, and listening to a reflection, we took turns about what we heard and what Christ is saying to us. This relationship of seeing Christ speaking through myself and my brothers reminds me of today’s Gospel on the road to Emmaus: “And it happened that while they were conversing and debating, Jesus himself drew near and walked with them, but their eyes were prevented from recognizing him. He asked them, ‘What are you discussing as you walk along?’” Lk 24:15-17
When one of us is struggling, we not only support each other but we also hold each other accountable. When one of us is falling into despair, we would ask them to sit in the middle so the rest of us can come over, place our hands on their shoulder, and each lift a prayer affirming that they are not alone.
Although I’m still struggling to find a job today, seeing my brothers every week in my Cursillo small faith sharing group reminds me that I’m never alone and Christ is near my side walking with me on the road to Emmaus.
Lord, help me be part of a small faith sharing group in which I can walk with others recognizing you are always present at my side walking with every one of us in this journey of life.
John Huân Vũ