The Alpha Course...
is designed to give people an opportunity to explore the big questions of life and faith, such as:
· What's the point of it all?
· What happens when we die?
· Is forgiveness possible?
· What relevance does Jesus have for our lives today?
With ten thought-provoking weekly sessions and a day away part way through, Alpha is a low-key, friendly and fun way to explore the Christian faith and to think about what's important in life.
A Typical Session at Alpha
We begin either with a meal (for the evening course) or with breakfast or coffee (for daytime). This provides a relaxed setting with the people who will later form your group for discussion.
The first week's food is on us, but a contribution in subsequent weeks will help us to cover our costs.
The talk - just 25 minutes - addresses a key issue relating to the Christian faith. We aim to be jargon-free and down-to-earth as well as thought-provoking. You won't be expected to agree with everything that's said, but there should be more than enough to get people talking afterwards!
Following the talk, the small groups for discussion are what many people say they find the most valuable times of the whole Alpha course. They provide a space to ask questions, express opinions and to discuss the topic of the day. They also give an opportunity to make friends and to bounce ideas around in a relaxed non-threatening environment.
What people have said about the Alpha course...
The Daily Express
"Alpha makes Christianity relevant to modern life."
David Suchet, Actor
"I cannot think of any other course that covers the introduction to the core beliefs of the Christian faith in such an accessible way and so relevant for today."
"Fun, informative and life-changing for the better."
"The Alpha course has made me think a lot more about Jesus
- a superb course!"
"There is more more about Christianity that I now want to know."
Alpha - Why Me?
Who's taken part?
More than two million people all over the world have completed the Alpha course during the last few years in churches, homes, schools, universities and prisons. In Cranham alone, several hundred people have enjoyed being part of an Alpha.
It's an opportunity for anyone to explore the Christian faith in a relaxed, non-threatening setting over ten thought-provoking weekly sessions with a day away.
Is it for me?
We aim the talks and discussion at anybody who would describe themselves in one of these ways:
Those wanting to investigate Christianity
New Christians and newcomers to the church
Those who want to brush up on the basics
You might be a sceptic, an enquirer or someone returning to church after some time away.
Perhaps you're a new parent wondering about Christening your baby or Engaged and wondering about a church wedding.
Some come on the course with a list of questions in their mind to be answered and others come with no set agenda at all.
If any of those descriptions fits you, then Alpha is for you...
But what if I don't like it?
Then you're free not to come any more:
The course is free, so you won't lose any money.
No-one will hassle you or come knocking on your door to brow-beat you into returning.
You're welcome to try out the course for as many or few sessions as you like. All that we ask is that you let us know each week so that can provide enough food!
How can I find out more?
Click on the links towards the top of this page under What Next? to find details of our next or current course and talk titles or click on Contact Us to send us a question by e-mail.
