The Alpha Course
An Opportunity to Explore the Meaning of Life
- What is the meaning of life?
- What happens when we die?
- What relevance does Jesus have for our lives?
- How do we deal with guilt?
If you would like to explore questions like these, then Alpha is for you.
What is Alpha? Alpha is for:
* Anyone interested in finding out more about the Christian faith. Adults of all ages are welcome.
* Learning and laughter. It is possible to learn about the Christian faith and to have fun at the same time.
* People meeting together. An opportunity to get to know others and to make new friends.
* Helping one another. The small groups give you a chance to discuss issues raised during the talks.
* Ask anything. Alpha is a place where no question is seen as too simple or too hostile.
Who is Alpha for? Alpha is for everyone! It's especially geared to:
* People interested in investigating Christianity
* Newcomers to the church
* New Christians
* Couples preparing for marriage
* Christians who want to brush up on the basics
What Happens at Alpha? There is a series of talks on topics such as:
* Who is Jesus?
* Why Did Jesus Die?
* Why and How Should I Read the Bible?
* Why and How Do I Pray?
* Who Is the Holy Spirit?
* How Can I Resist Evil?
* Why and How Should I Tell Others?
* Does God Heal Today?
* What About the Church?
After each small talk, there is a small group time for everyone to discuss any questions or issues they have. This gives an opportunity to get to know each other and to learn together.
When and Where? The Alpha course meets every Monday evening for a series of eight weeks, starting Feb. 22. Dinner begins at 6:30 p.m., with the class following at 7:30 p.m. A Saturday retreat on March 27 is included in the program. Visit the Alpha table by the Narthex after Sunday worship. Contact the Rev. John Richardson, ext. 250, for questions or comments.
We meet at Custer Road UMC in the Upper Room.
Class Agenda:
* 6:30-7:30 p.m. Each evening begins with a meal of some kind. Guests usually eat with other members of their own "group" of around 12 people.
* 7:30-8 p.m. The main talk of the evening addresses a key issue relating to the Christian faith.
* 8:15-9 p.m. Break into small groups for an opportunity to ask questions, express opinions and to discuss the topic of the evening. They also provide an opportunity to make friends and to bounce ideas around in a relaxed and non-threatening environment.
Cost: FREE of charge. Guests may be asked for a voluntary donation toward the cost of the meals and the cost of the Weekend Away.
Register HERE.
