What Is Alpha?
Alpha is an opportunity to explore the meaning of life in a relaxed, friendly setting. The Alpha course is 12 weeks (13 sessions), meeting once per week on Tuesdays and one amazing Saturday. Each session, people enjoy great food, laughter and learning in a fun and friendly atmosphere where no question about life or God is seen as too simple or too hostile…questions like—Is there a God? Why am I here? Where did I come from? Where am I going?
Who Is Alpha For?
Alpha is for anyone…anyone who thinks there may be more to life than meets the eye.
People attend from all backgrounds, religions, and viewpoints. They come to investigate questions about the existence of God, the purpose of life, the afterlife, the claims of Jesus and more. Some people want to get beyond religion and find a relationship with God that really changes life. Others come for the close, long-lasting friendships that are built during the Alpha course. Many guests have never been to church, others may have attended church occasionally but feel they have never really understood the basics of the Christian faith. Everyone is welcome.
How Much Will It Cost?
The cost for course materials is $17. A donation of $5 per dinner is appreciated.
What Happens At Alpha?
Each gathering begins with a meal, refreshments, some live music, and a chance to get to know others. Then there is a short talk which looks at a different aspect of the Christian faith each week. This is followed by a time of discussion in small groups, where everyone is welcome to contribute their opinion and ask questions. People usually stay in the same small groups for the duration of the course so they can get to know each other, continue discussions and deepen friendships. The emphasis is upon exploration and discovery in a relaxed and informal environment.
The talks each week cover the following topics, acting as a springboard for the small group discussions:
Session 1: Is there more to life than this? (No Small Group)
Session 2: Who is Jesus?
Session 3: Why did Jesus die?
Session 4: How can we have faith?
Session 5: Why and how do I pray?
Session 6: Why and how should I read the Bible?
Session 7: How does God guide us?
Session 8: Who is the Holy Spirit? What does the Holy Spirit do? How can I be filled with the Holy Spirit?
Session 9: How can I resist evil?
Session 10: What about the Church?
Session 11: Does God heal today?
Session 12: Why & how should we tell others?
Session 13: How can I make the most of the rest of my life?