The Filipino Cursillos in Christianity of Los Angeles (FCIC-LA): A 34-Year Journey of Faith and Service

The Filipino Cursillos in Christianity of Los Angeles (FCIC-LA), a movement that began in 1990, is now
celebrating 34 years of spiritual vibrancy and community service. Founded under the leadership of Msgr.
Loreto “Mac” Gonzales, and mandated by Cardinal Roger Mahoney, the FCIC-LA was created as part of
the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. This milestone marks the group’s
growth into one of the most dynamic Cursillo movements across the United States, with thousands of
Cursillistas actively serving in various parishes across Southern California.

The Early Beginnings

The movement began with a core group of dedicated individuals, including Ned Pascua, Cesar Estrada,
Ramon and Luming Parcon, Larry and Noemi Dungca, Ric and Nancy Torres, and Dante Villena. After
months of planning, the first Men’s Cursillo weekend was held in July 1990 at the Divine Word Seminary,
Riverside, CA with Dante Villena as the first Rector. The first Women’s Cursillo weekend followed in
August 1990, led by Rectora Nancy Torres. With support from Cursillistas in San Diego, such as Gary and
Cely Butalid, Remy Jimenez, Margie Acol, and others, the early success of the movement was ensured,
along with spiritual guidance from Fr. Dennis Macalintal, who served as the first Spiritual Adviser.

Leadership and Growth
Since its inception, the FCIC-LA has been led by a series of devoted Lay Directors, starting with Ramon
Parcon in 1990. The most recent Archdiocesan Lay Coordinator,( formerly called Lay Director) Maritess
Tan-Torres, took office in 2023 and continues to guide the movement toward greater achievements.

Past Lay Directors include:

• Ramon Parcon (1990 - 1994 )

• Rudy Bautista (1996 – 1999)

• Ron Parcon (2001-2006)

• Romy Uy (2007-2009)

• Manolo Robles (2010-2012)

• Gerry Torres (2013-2015)

• Enrico Bagsic (2016-2018)

• Alicia Ricafort (2019-2022)

Under their leadership, FCIC-LA expanded its reach, establishing eight Ultreya Centers across Los
Angeles, Ventura, and Antelope Valley counties, where members gather monthly for prayer,
perseverance, and fellowship. The movement also conducts a School of Leaders, which nurtures the
next generation of Cursillo leaders.

Major Activities and International Outreach

Annually, FCIC-LA hosts two Men’s and two Women’s Cursillo weekends, fostering spiritual renewal
and community building among Filipino Catholics in Southern California. Additionally, the group sponsors the Days With the Helpers of the Lord (DWHL) youth retreat, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in July 2024, offering spiritual formation for teens aged 13 to 18.

In 2015, FCIC-LA expanded its mission to the Philippines, conducting simultaneous Men’s and Women’s
Cursillo weekends at the Shrine of Kamay ni Hesus in Lucban, Quezon, in collaboration with the Quezon
Cursillo Movement. This initiative highlighted the movement’s commitment to support international Cursillo efforts.

Looking Ahead: 2025 and Beyond

Continuing its mission of spiritual renewal, FCIC-LA is planning a Men’s Cursillo weekend in January
2025 at the Immaculate Conception Seminary in Guiguinto, Bulacan, Philippines. This event aims to
reintroduce the Cursillo Movement in areas where it has waned in recent years, reinvigorating local
communities and leaders.

As FCIC-LA celebrates its rich history of service and faith, it stands as one of the most active Cursillo
movements in the U.S., demonstrating the enduring power of faith and fellowship among Filipino
Catholics.