My Fourth Day Story is a new blog series from the Cursillo community in Upper South Carolina. Within the context of the three-day Cursillo weekend experience, the "fourth day" represents what happens next; in other words, life after Cursillo. We're called to live our Fourth Day engaged in piety, study, and action to enable us to know God better, serve our parishes and communities, and love everyone we meet.
(pictured, left to right: Janet Jendron, Barbara Werner, Eliza Alderman, and Kathryn Hix)
After I made my Cursillo (#118), I was eager to join a Group Reunion. I was part of a couple of different groups over the years that met for a while then fizzled out for various reasons. So, at the height of the pandemic, when I received an email about a virtual Group Reunion, I jumped at the opportunity to join. I found myself in a group with three other women, one of whom I knew and others I had never met. We instantly bonded and found a rhythm with our meetings on Zoom and with maintaining ongoing connection via text. This group came together through the worst of times when so many of us were feeling isolated and alone, and it has held together even as we all begin to return to in-person opportunities for worship and fellowship. And last fall, two of us got to meet in person at the Closing for Cursillo #143; it was such a joyful moment! I will always be grateful for the dear friends and sisters in Christ that came into my life through Group Reunion.
Written by Kathryn Hix (Christ Church, Greenville)
I have been so blessed to be a part of several different Group Reunions over the years. I made my Cursillo with a strong group of friends from Christ Church, Greenville. My career has had me traveling all over the world in the years after my Cursillo, but I never lacked in my friendships, especially those through Cursillo. My current GR is an amazing group of women from different walks and Ty’s ages of life. We don’t always meet weekly, but we text almost daily. Our prayers are strong and can be felt almost immediately sometimes. Just like God’s love for His children, our love for each other is unwavering. I am so happy to be home in the Upstate of SC after 7 years away. This group keeps me accountable and honest, helps me to know I’m not alone, and is filled with the Holy Spirit. I can truly live into my Fourth Day because of our combined strength. De Colores!
Written by Eliza Alderman (Christ Church, Greenville)
I carefully and prayerfully, considered whether or not to join in Group Reunion. It had been many years since my Cursillo, and/or participating in a Group. Our now foursome, had two women whom I had never met. I weighed the risk of trusting these women; urged by the Holy Spirit, I did. I am so grateful that I actually listened… The “glue” that enables Group Reunion to work is loving relationship and the covenant of trust between each member. A beloved community of acceptance and support. We walk different and unique paths, but we daily support, encourage and love each other through God’s grace. Through sharing serious life issues to silly cartoons, we are there for each other. Our Group Reunion is a gift and blessing to me. Virtual Group Reunion? Not a problem. It seems the Lord works quite effectively with modern technology!
Written by Barb Werner (St. Stephen’s, Ridgeway)
When we started this group, it was a Godsend to Eliza and me. She was living in Charleston and the pandemic made it hard for her to find a church home. Adding Kathryn and eventually, Barb, has cemented a support group that has surpassed all expectations! Kathryn and I met in person at a Cursillo closing for the first time in over two years of Group Reunion sharing! Eliza and Kathryn have never met Barb in person. Through time and distance, the Holy Spirit has been strong as we've celebrated, struggled, shared and prayed together. With a quick text message, prayers are activated immediately, and we're always amazed at the results. God is good - and does work through technology! One day we hope to all gather in person, but until then, we cherish our group with grateful hearts.
Written by Janet Jendron Borellis (St. Paul's, Fort Mill)
