What is VDC A Spanish expression meaning "way of Christ," Via de Cristo is the Lutheran expression of "Cursillo de Chrstiandad." (Trademark by the Catholic Cursillo Community). Via de Cristo considers itself a movement within the Church of Jesus Christ. We can in no way ever function independent of the Church. We encourage each individual Christian to remain loyal to a home congregation and to serve that congregation as an exemplary servant of Jesus Christ. Lay persons are encourage to strengthen their partnership with their pastor and to use their personal calling to extend the work of the Church. How did VDC get started The movement originated as "Cursillo" in the late 1940’s in the Spanish Catholic church and moved to America in the late 1950’s. The first Lutheran Cursillos were held in 1972, both in Iowa and in Florida. The name "Via de Cristo" was adopted by the Lutheran Community in February 1986. Today, although different groups use different names Via de Cristo, Tres Dias, Walk to Emmaus, etc.), the content of all "Cursillo" weekends is basically the same. More than 2 million Chrisians in over 50 nations have attended one of these weekends. What happens on a weekend The Via de Cristo weekend is a three-day experience in living in a Christian community in a retreat setting. It begins with a Sendoff early Thursday evening and ends with a Closing late Sunday afternoon. During the three day weekend, tools are shared that will encourage the participants to maintain a Christian walk. They will learn many ways that the Spirit inspires people to good works and will be encourage to choose those that are effective for them. The major focus of the weekend is a series of 14 talks, five given by Lutheran pastors and nine by lay persons. These talks center around the grace of God, its reality in your life and how you can live the life of grace, imparting grace to others. Each of these talks is followed by small group discussions. The weekend also includes morning and evening worship services daily, communion, music, laughter, prayer and good food. While you are attending you have three busy but very enjoyable days and will begin to understand the real presence of Christ in His Body of belivers. Through VDC we have found that a person will: 1. experience more joy, happiness and satisfaction from their Christian faith 2. experience a closer walk with Jesus Christ 3. develop a more joyous fellowship with brother and sister Christians 4. find sharing their faith with others easier and more enjoyable How can I attend a VDC weekend Via de Cristo is not designed to convert anyone to Christianity or bring them to the church. It is meant for those who are already faithful and committed to Christ and their church. While we are predominantly Lutheran, we welcome the participation of any active Christian. Our movement includes Baptists, Methodists, Episcopalians and members of other Christian denominations. If you would like to attend a Via de Cristo weekend, the best place to start is by contacting an individual who has previously attended a weekend. We suggest that you also speak to your pastor. If you do not know of anyone who has previously attended a Via de Cristo weekend, we would be happy to put you in contact with such a person in your area who can answer your questions and serve as your sponsor. Contact our Lay Director, Michele Koniewicz at (815) 725-4928 or our Outreach Coordinators, Dave and Ruth Van Zant (815) 834-1293.