Reading the Gospel, Christianity seems simple. However, reading some theological treatises, it can seem very complicated. The Cursillos de Cristiandad is one of the best—if not the best—ways to make the difficult simplicity of the Gospel a lived reality. This small book you’re holding, which clearly explains the simplicity of the Cursillo Movement and its constant call to choose the Gospel solution, is a text signed by Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló. It was found among his vast legacy—currently being cataloged—and is preserved by the Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló Foundation. Written by Eduardo for a talk he was invited to give on the challenges facing the Movement, this book compiles the concise responses that, in the form of publications, shed light on the message, purpose, and original mentality of the Cursillo Movement. This reading aims to provide answers to essential aspects of Cursillos.

The Conversations of Cala Figuera were a long-held wish of Eduardo Bonnín that finally came true in August 1994, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the first-ever Cursillo de Cristiandad. Their goal was precisely to bring together Cursillo friends from around the world to talk, live together, grow in friendship, but above all, to think and reflect deeply on the Charism of the Cursillo Movement. What you have in your hands is a very small piece of what we lived in May 2016 during the Fourth Conversations of Cala Figuera, because the best part can’t be captured in any book: the hugs, the glances, the visits to the Tabernacle, the palancas sent from five continents, the Lord’s caresses to each one of us who were there. Here we have gathered the rollos from the IV CCF, which aim to walk the path that begins when a person cracks open the door of their heart just enough for the Lord to enter and announce the Good News: that God loves them. That’s where the Encuentro happens—a moment that can radically change a life and give way to Hope, open one to the wonder of faith, and gradually turn one’s life into a Life in Fullness. This fullness begins when we let God act in us, placing us in a state of constant Gratitude, until we ourselves become a Sign—the fruit of the ongoing conversion process that each of us can live throughout our lives.

On the 25th anniversary of the Cursillo held in Cala Figuera in August 1944—the first-ever Cursillo de Cristiandad—Father Gabriel Seguí Vidal MSSCC (1907–1996), historian and direct witness, believed it was fitting to share his work on the Origins of the Cursillos de Cristiandad, shedding light on what was experienced among the young people of Catholic Action. Now, as we mark 75 years since the Cursillo of Cala Figuera and 50 years since the publication of what’s colloquially known as “Father Seguí’s History,” the Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló Foundation (FEBA) deems it timely and necessary to publish both his biography and his work on the origins of the Cursillo Movement, to honor and make known the person of Father Gabriel Seguí Vidal, who always encouraged, supported, and stood by Eduardo Bonnín and his friends, showing a wide vision of the Church.

Eduardo made many sheets for his personal use, which he frequently used as a script when he spoke. Some of them contain a single thought, but there are others that constitute true schemes, more or less complicated, difficult to interpret for someone other than the author himself. As these sheets expose an important part of his thinking, it was thought that they could be rewritten in a version that was easily accessible to everyone, always trying to reproduce his ideas with the utmost fidelity, although it was inevitable that, at least in part, his peculiar and very personal way of expressing himself would be lost. The difficulty increased due to the fact that the sheets were written, as already mentioned, with the purpose of serving as an aid in oral interventions and never thinking about their written publication. This adaptation work was started by Guillermo Bibiloni, a good connoisseur of the subject and author of a "History of Cursillos," but it was left incomplete, surely due to Guillermo's death, remaining forgotten among Eduardo's countless papers, until recently, the manuscript was found, considering it a great find. This part, adapted by Guillermo Bibiloni, is what is now published, leaving for later the rest of the sheets, which are still the object of the necessary adaptation work for comfortable reading. A few years ago, a booklet with this same title, written by Eduardo, was published. Although some coincidence is possible, the content of these first "Reflections" and that of "Reflections II" is different, since then, apparently, the author did not resort to the sheets we know, but to other sources from his copious archive.

Eduardo Bonnín long dreamed of a global gathering of Cursillistas to exchange experiences—so that the ideas sparked in any part of the world where Cursillos were held could be shared with all. He hoped that in the warmth of community, friendship and admiration would grow for all that, by God’s grace, had been achieved. His dream came true in 1994 with the first Conversations of Cala Figuera, then again in 2002 with the second edition. Finally, in 2011—after his death in 2008—his friends, who consider themselves continuers of his work, organized the third Conversations of Cala Figuera, striving to preserve the spirit and essence of the first two. Though different in content, these followed the same line of thought. The themes explored—Christianity in Dialogue, Meaning, Attitude, Creativity, Communication, Trust, and Transcendence—form a group of questions of undeniable importance for anyone who wishes to live the Cursillo experience.

​The Cursillos de Cristiandad opened a path to live the Gospel in the present time. Today, millions of people around the world conjugate Christ's word in the first person, thanks to that Cursillos experience that was born in the secular environment of Mallorca. This long conversation with Eduardo Bonnín, founder of the Cursillos, sheds light on the difficult and luminous trajectory of a man—made of heaven and clay—who was born called to make God's tenderness transparent. Between historical character and understanding of mentality, through this reading, we learn about the facts of Cursillos and the person of Eduardo Bonnín.

This is the posthumous publication of the author's spiritual testament, who wanted to transmit the facts and their motivations from the beginnings of the Cursillos de Cristiandad Movement with a vocation for permanence. He also wanted to transmit it through a notarial document to leave no doubt about its origin and authenticity.

The magazine "Testimonio" published in Venezuela, came to light from 1986 to 1994 and carried many articles about the Cursillos de Cristiandad Movement. Bonnín was repeatedly invited by Father Cesáreo to write something about it. Some of his articles were published in different issues, but their dissemination was very limited. Repeatedly some friends have made it known that it is a shame that these writings are not known by people who might benefit from reading them. This is the reason why this publication has come into your hands.

This book reflects the living trajectory that the Foundational Charism of the Cursillos de Cristiandad Movement has been following since its beginnings, and the difficulties it has encountered throughout its history to remain faithful to its identity. The correspondence maintained with Father Cesáreo explains it in detail. The truth of the facts always floats because it is true, although many novels have been written around it. I harbor the desire and hope that someday these realities, roots from which the motivation, the Method, and the style of our Movement have emerged, will be taken into account.

Forty-five years later... some Cursillistas searched high and low and finally contacted Pedro Casaldáliga, managing to revive this small booklet, once forgotten in the library of oblivion. It tells the great adventure—spirit-filled and full of challenges—of the arrival of the Cursillos de Cristiandad in Africa. A book bursting with spirit, enthusiasm, and God. It’s the first book we should all read after completing a Cursillo. The foreword, written by Don Pedro, bishop emeritus of Mato Grosso and fellow Cursillista, is excellent. Together with Eduardo and others, they managed to color Africa with Cursillo's spirit.

Simple and profound truths are the sensitive material this book is made of, in which E. Bonnín reminds us "how complicated it is to make people understand that something is simple." Because each one has a different vision, what we have to achieve is that the Christ of each person is the person of Christ. – Being a Christian is not a project that is realized, but a realization that is projected. – It is not an event of life, but making life a continuous, astonishing, and grateful event. – I want my future to be better and more aware of myself and for the optimism of living to reach as many as possible.

In the early 1990s, a growing desire emerged within the Cursillo Movement to better define the essence of its Foundational Charism. This led to the first Conversations of Cala Figuera in 1994. Eight years later, the second Conversations delved even deeper into the topic. The talks from 2002, now published, reflect an intelligent collaboration between laypeople and priests, a complementary and convergent effort centered on what truly matters.

Guillermo Bibiloni’s book, in contrast to Xisco Forteza’s, takes a more technical and historical approach to the history of the Cursillos de Cristiandad. It recounts the events that took place between 1944 and its publication. Though not free from some inaccuracies, these will be clarified in future revisions or other publications. It’s a well-documented and informative read. We recommend beginners read Xisco’s book first. Guillermo Bibiloni passed away in 2006.

In August 1994, the 1st Conversations of Cala Figuera took place in Mallorca, Spain, with 146 delegates from the Cursillos de Cristiandad from fifteen countries. During this international meeting, ten “runways for takeoff” were developed by various Cursillistas—ten concepts that, when deeply understood (with the heart), bring individuals closer to the Foundational Charism of the Cursillos de Cristiandad—the foundations of personal flight, of daily nearness to God.

Forgotten Evidence is a treatise on the mentality of Cursillos. The bases on which the true orientation of the purpose of the Cursillos Movement rests, the pillars pointed out in the person. A text for everyone, brief, accurate, and concrete to constantly reflect, savor at all times about the person's attitude in tune with their environment. The book covers all aspects of the person as such, their being, their doing, their virtualities, and their environment: the real and friendship.

This book captures one of the most unique and, at the same time, most unknown events in our recent history: the Cursillos de Cristiandad. Francisco Forteza’s book, avoiding both apologetics and dry historicism, belongs to testimonial literature. It openly unveils the human story—full of errors, intrigue, and manipulation—behind the Cursillo Movement, while at the same time defending the value of what the author calls the “foundational charism.” The Cursillos de Cristiandad were conceived and born in the 1940s on the island of Mallorca, Spain. A fine, elegant, and precise work.

A passionate text that always opts for the person and the Gospel, against its instrumentalization or its reduction to inert structures. This document is not a theoretical and aseptic study. If its purpose were this, its authors would have nuanced more and completed some of its statements. It is a living text, which will undoubtedly sow restlessness and hope. It does not want to be a medical treatise, but a medicine. For our part, we will continue striving for the reality of the Cursillos to be fully realized, in line with those who preceded us, promoting all valid initiatives.

In 1962, the first Cursillos methodology book appeared, whose content has helped and continues to help with full validity the development of the Cursillos movement in many Leader Schools. From the global scheme of the Movement, meticulously going through its stages of Precursillo, Cursillo, and Postcursillo, to delving into the Mentality sheets. These sheets were developed to reflect on our lives. A good instrument for those who are going to serve a Cursillo. Clear and straightforward language. Practical book.

This article presents the talk "Life" by Antonio Pérez Ramos during the First Cala Figuera Conversations. It explores Grace as the foundation of the Cursillo Movement, highlighting its connection to Christian life and its transformative power in faith and environments.

This article highlights the importance of the Ultreya as a space for spiritual encounter and growth within the Cursillo Movement. It emphasizes how shared experiences, personal testimony, and friendship in Christ help rediscover God’s presence in everyday life and strengthen the community.

This article explores the thoughts of Eduardo Bonnín and his conviction that "one can always be better." It analyzes how his vision, based on friendship, love, and a Christian mindset, motivates individuals to overcome limitations and achieve a life fully aligned with the Gospel.

This article reflects on the Group Reunion as a pillar of the Cursillo Movement. It highlights its essence of sincere friendship, its impact on daily Christian living, and its ability to connect people on a path of faith and community commitment.

This article reflects on the "transparency of love," an essential quality in the Cursillo Movement. Rafael Alcover highlights how true prayer and friendship allow us to see life and people with clarity and joy, living fully in God's grace.

This article explores the thoughts and mindset of Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló, founder of the Cursillo Movement. It highlights his humility, optimism, and faith in people, as well as his deep respect for individual freedom, always in coherence with the Gospel and friendship.

This article explores the relationship between faith and truth from a Christian perspective, emphasizing how Jesus Christ embodies the ultimate truth. Through the Cursillo Movement, it highlights the importance of transmitting this truth through actions, prayer, and friendship.

This article explores the expression "Fer Volar Coloms," a metaphor for dreaming and projecting freely, highlighting its relevance in the charisma of Eduardo Bonnín and the Cursillo Movement. It reflects on God’s love as a transformative presence communicated through friendship.

This article presents the testimony of Antonia Orfila about her experience in a Cursillo. Through transformative experiences, she reflects on authentic friendship, the discovery of God’s love, and how she found in prayer a source of peace and serenity.

This article reflects on generosity as a capacity to generate and transform through Christian love. Rafael Alcover connects generosity, humility, and spirit, emphasizing how Cursillos plant the seeds of faith and friendship, renewing God’s love in our daily lives.

This article narrates the transformative experience of a novice cursillista under the influence of Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló's charisma. Through metaphors and anecdotes, it reflects on the impact of the Cursillo Movement as a path to renewed faith, friendship, and Christian commitment.

This article details the charisma of Eduardo Bonnín, founder of the Cursillo Movement, highlighting his love for people, deep faith, and personalist approach. It reflects on his legacy and the mission of spreading the Christian message to those who are distant from it.

I met Eduardo Bonnín in 1992, and although at first, I did not fully understand his vision, his humility and clarity transformed my life. His words, “Cursillos is still waiting to be discovered,” resonated deeply and redefined the Movement in Canada. His authentic friendship and his ability to see Christ in every person touched my heart. Eduardo, through his example, taught me to live the Gospel with simplicity, joy, and deep respect for the dignity of each individual.

When I participated in the first Cursillo in Cala Figuera in 1944, I never imagined that this experience would transform so many lives worldwide. Eduardo Bonnín left his mark with his joy, humility, and spirit of friendship. We shared unique moments under the pine trees, with sincere conversations and reflections in the chapel. This Cursillo was an unforgettable adventure that I carry engraved in my memory and in the photos I still treasure as a testimony of a transcendent beginning.

In 1955, I attended a Cursillo in Mallorca that transformed my perception of God and faith. Back in Terrassa, friendships with fervent Christians like Ramón Bassiner and Damián Vidal helped me deepen my involvement in the Movement. Although my encounters with Eduardo Bonnín were sporadic, his charisma and example marked my life, teaching me to face difficulties with total trust in God. Eduardo embodied a simple yet profound Christianity, which continues to inspire our Ultreyas after more than 50 years.

I met Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló during a very difficult time in my life, and since then, my gratitude towards him has been limitless. His ability to value each person gave me a sense of security and strength that I had never felt before. Eduardo was a genuine friend, full of humility and always willing to listen. His words, his sense of humor, and his gestures—like the little paper birds—constantly reminded me of the importance of friendship and simplicity. Thank you, Eduardo, for so much!

Although my physical time with Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló was brief, those 90 minutes in his office left an indelible mark. From my early experiences in Cursillos, my search led me to discover the foundational charism—something Eduardo embodied with his positive outlook and genuine love. Through meetings, letters, and friendships, I learned that the Gospel is lived with simplicity and joy. Eduardo is a guiding light, even in struggles and deserts, leading toward a living and close Christ.

I had the honor of participating in the first Cursillo de Cristiandad in Cala Figuera in 1944, never imagining the worldwide impact it would have. Eduardo Bonnín was the rector, and his dedication to Christ’s cause profoundly marked me. Throughout my life, I collaborated in various Cursillos and in the Proa magazine, enjoying the atmosphere of friendship in the Ultreyas. Eduardo was a constant inspiration; his dedication and charisma planted in me a faith that still accompanies me today. ¡De Colores!

Participating in the first Cursillo de Cristiandad in Cala Figuera deeply marked my life. I was 23 years old, and as president of Acción Católica de Felanitx, I arrived thinking of campaigning for Santiago. However, what I found was transformative—moments of reflection beside a simple cross, inspiring talks by Eduardo Bonnín, and an unforgettable experience of community. Seeing how that small seed has grown to reach the world is a miracle that continues to move me. ¡De Colores!

I had the honor of knowing and learning from Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló, whose mark in Mexico is indelible. His charisma and dedication, evident in countless visits over more than 50 years, always demonstrated unwavering faith and commitment. From the early days of Cursillos in Mexico, Eduardo left an imprint of friendship and Christian renewal. His life, thoughts, and work continue to inspire those of us who seek to transform our lives with hope and freedom in Christ.

Meeting Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló changed my life and my perception of Christianity and the Cursillo Movement. Eduardo exuded friendship, simplicity, and spirituality, seeing unique potential in every person. His humility and conviction that Christ is the solution to all problems deeply impacted me. When I heard him speak, I felt as if I were drinking from the living water promised by Jesus. Today, I feel called to transmit his foundational charism and his love for Christ with humility and passion.

I met Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló in November 1991, during his visit to my city, Resistencia. His humility and clarity left a deep mark on me. Although at first, I did not fully understand his message, over time, and through readings like those of Francisco Forteza, I grasped the true dimension of his foundational charism. Eduardo captivated me with his simplicity, wisdom, and love for the Cursillos, showing me the importance of valuing each person and living with a renewed and authentic faith.

I met Eduardo Bonnín in 1977, in Los Angeles, where his authenticity and humility left an indelible "mark" on my wife and me. His friendship reflected Christ’s love—natural, selfless, and full of joy. For 30 years, he taught us by example how to live in friendship with God 24 hours a day, always attentive to our questions and needs. Eduardo radiated simplicity, enthusiasm, and faith—qualities that continue to illuminate those of us who had the privilege of knowing him.

My life changed when I met Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló. After years of doubts about my faith and the Cursillo Movement, my encounter with Eduardo was a revelation. With his humility and simplicity, he cleared my doubts and became a close friend. Hosting him in my home was a privilege; his way of living the Gospel was a constant inspiration. Every conversation reaffirmed my hope for a better world, and our friendship endured as a divine gift. ¡De Colores!

Since I met Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló, I have been struck by his unwavering faith and visionary outlook. Although we were not close friends, sharing key moments with him, such as the first numbered Cursillo in San Honorato, left an indelible mark. Eduardo was a role model, a man ahead of his time, whose energy and charisma inspired young people like me to propel the Cursillos forward. His legacy remains alive, like a lush tree that provides shelter and hope to thousands of Cursillistas around the world.

Eduardo, every time I look at your photo, I feel your smile and the profound impact you left on my life and in Italy. Meeting you was a privilege that taught me the transcendence of friendship and how to see each person through God's eyes. From young people to adults, you inspired everyone with your humility and wisdom. You never forgot your friends, and your words, "Go forward, my friend, don't get tired," resonate in my heart, giving me strength to keep walking in faith and hope. Thank you, Eduardo!

I met Eduardo Bonnín in 1995 during my first National Encounter in Denver, and I was fascinated by his call to keep Cursillo simple. His vision and the founding charism he shared inspired my faith and my desire to delve into the Movement’s origins. Years later, in Mallorca, his humility and wisdom deeply impacted me, showing me God's love in action. Eduardo has been a spiritual father to me, whose guidance continues to encourage my Christian life.

As a priest and Cursillista, reflecting on 75 years since the first Cursillo de Cristiandad is exciting. From a young age, I saw how the Holy Spirit used Eduardo Bonnín to transform lives. I participated in ultreyas and Cursillos that shaped my priestly ministry. Although I drifted away for a while, in my retirement, I have returned to these encounters, renewing my faith and commitment. With gratitude to Eduardo, I pray to continue being an instrument of love and grace on the journey to Jesus. ¡De Colores!

I was part of the first Cursillo de Cristiandad in Cala Figuera when I was just 13 years old, an experience that marked my life. I remember Eduardo Bonnín, one of the instructors, with great affection, as well as the "rollos" we shared, both listening and participating. The anecdotes—like riding a bike down a steep staircase and swimming between boats in Cala Figuera—are part of cherished memories. Although I did not maintain continuous contact, the Cursillo left a deep imprint on me, filled with gratitude.

Meeting Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló transformed my life. From the moment I saw him serving dinner, his humility deeply impacted me. Eduardo showed me the power of friendship as a means to communicate God's love. He always respected each person's freedom, being a prophet ahead of his time. His charisma and wisdom embodied the ideas he professed, inspiring me to work for an authentic Cursillo Movement. He is like a star that illuminates the path of life.

Since I met Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló, I have experienced his impact on my life as a luminous guide. Through my father and my experiences in Cursillos, Eduardo left deep footprints in my faith and daily life. I admired his humility, patience, and dedication. He was a close friend, even in difficult moments, offering me advice that transformed me. Eduardo embodied the founding charism of Cursillos with sincerity and love that will remain alive in me and many others.

From my first encounter with Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló, I was struck by his humility and the warmth of his attention. His presence in Italy always conveyed genuine love and faith. I admired his ability to connect personally with everyone, even remembering birthdays to send greetings. Eduardo not only testified about Christ but also embodied the founding charism of Cursillos de Cristiandad, leaving an indelible mark on every community he visited. His love for Italy was reciprocal and eternal.

I always felt that the time I shared with Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló was brief but of incomparable quality. His humility, energy, and charisma were inexhaustible—always willing to answer questions and share sincerely. Every encounter left a "taste of wanting more," but it also planted seeds of friendship and joy. Eduardo lived with a charming naturalness, creating deep bonds and leaving an indelible mark on my life and on all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

I met Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló when I was 14 years old, but our friendship grew years later, marked by mutual trust and sincerity. Eduardo saw in each person a friend, not an instrument. I admired his ability to guide me without imposing, encouraging me to find my own path to God. His faith, pragmatism, and respect for the laity of the Cursillos were constants. Eduardo was unique—humble, optimistic, and dedicated—leaving an indelible mark on my life and that of others.

I had the privilege of sharing 50 years with Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló, during which I witnessed his charisma and dedication. Eduardo was a visionary, gifted with a special grace to guide souls toward Christ with humility and perseverance. Our group reunion was a space of learning and living faith, where he experimented with and refined his ideas. His legacy transcends his absence; I do not miss him because I understood his message—a constant call to live and transmit God’s grace. ¡De Colores!

When Eduardo Bonnín invited me to a Cursillo in Inca, I never imagined the impact it would have on my life. Eduardo did not indoctrinate; he let the Holy Spirit guide. The group reunion we formed with him was a space of living faith, where friendship and the Gospel came together to shape my entire life. Eduardo taught me to center everything on God, and thanks to him, I have tried to live my life fully in accordance with the Gospel.

Speaking about Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló is, for me, like exploring one of the main roots of my life. His friendship taught me that Christ is the answer to my existence—not as an immediate solution, but as a transformative force. Eduardo inspired my faith, not through persuasion, but through his authenticity. He showed me that living the Gospel is an act of freedom, joy, and personal discovery, integrating my daily life with God. His legacy remains alive, uplifting my soul every day.

Meeting Eduardo Bonnín Aguiló was a privilege that shaped my life. I admired him for his humility, authenticity, and the coherence between what he thought, said, and did. I spent years in meetings and conversations with him, learning from his deep vision of the concrete man and his unwavering dedication to the Cursillo Movement. Eduardo taught me that humility and authenticity are key to transforming lives.