ASIA PACIFIC GROUP HISTORY

As previously mentioned it became apparent that the Asia Pacific region was becoming strong enough to form its own International Group as early as 1983. 

Countries who attended this original Encounter were as follows -Australia, Taiwan, Guam, Macau, Philippines, Singapore, Sri-Lanka, Hawaii and the US Military in the Asia Pacific region.

At the second Encounter held in Taiwan 1987 it was agreed to meet annually, however it was not until the 1990 Encounter held in Hawaii that it was decided to form an Asia Pacific Group that was approved by the OMCC.

Asia Pacific Group continued to meet annually and all member countries attended the 5th World Encounter which was held in Korea. At the height of the group there were 14 active member countries.

At present there are 8 member countries and they are Australia, Korea, Taiwan, CNMI (Saipan), Thailand, Hawaii, Guam and Vietnam in Diaspora. Philippine Cursillistas who reside in the USA (Region XI) are also a part of this group.

Asia Pacific Group now meets bi-annually and the last Asia Pacific Encounter was held at Campbelltown NSW October 2006.  Guest speakers were World President Juan President USA, Mary Dolan from Ireland and Sheelagh Winston from Canada.

       

 

                                       

ASIA PACIFIC ENCOUNTER 2010

REPORT ON 21st ASIA PACIFIC ENCOUNTER

7-10 October, in Los Angeles, USA.

“Rekindle the Fire of Your Love in our Hearts”

For all those who attended, the fire within was given a burst of energy by the experience of the 21st Asia Pacific Encounter. Hosted by the Chinese speaking Cursillistas of North America, the occasion provided a perfect opportunity to also celebrate the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Chinese speaking Cursillo Movement in the US, as a result of an outreach from Taiwan.

All delegates were welcomed graciously and warmly. The hospitality was a highlight of the Encounter, as our hosts displayed the essence of Cursillo in extending the hand of Friendship in such a genuine manner. It was delightful to witness and be part of the exchanges between the peoples of our neighbouring Asia Pacific countries. The strong emphasis on spiritual devotion was a highlight and it was especially beautiful to hear hymns and prayers in diverse languages.

Two keynote talks were presented on the theme of the Encounter, by OMCC President Yvonne Carrigan and Spiritual Advisor, Fr Adrian Farrelly. Yvonne spoke of the absolute and unconditional love our God has for each of us. Fr Adrian challenged our complacency and reminded us of the need to tend the spiritual fire within us. Various witness talks were also presented by Chinese cursillistas sharing their spiritual journeys.

 The country reports by Heads of Delegation summarised the activities of the last two years. The APG meetings chaired by APG Coordinator, Tam Nguyen were valuable opportunities to share successes and challenges, to improve communication, to review the By Laws and to examine the way ahead. It is planned to hold the 22nd APG Encounter in Sydney, hosted by Vietnam in Diaspora in September 2013.

The Encounter closed with Mass, followed by a tour of the City of Angels, including their magnificent new cathedral and the Cursillo Retreat House. The Australian delegation feels very blessed to have had this opportunity to be in God’s presence and to share the weekend with our sisters and brothers in Christ from around the region. We thank Matthew Ting and the team for a valuable and enriching Encounter.

De Colores,

Merran Martin, International Representative, Australian National Cursillo Secretariat.