The Alpha course
Ever wondered what life is really all about?
Over 11 million people worldwide have now attended an Alpha course, an opportunity to explore the meaning of life, running in tens of thousands of churches of all denominations across the world.
What is Alpha?
Alpha is an opportunity for anyone to explore the Christian faith in a relaxed setting over ten thought-provoking weekly sessions, with a weekend away.
Who is it for?
The Alpha course is designed primarily for people who aren't churchgoers, new Christians or those who would like to re-visit the basics and each course is open to everyone who would like to attend.
People find out about the Alpha course in a number of ways - a recommendation from a friend, a poster, flyer, newspaper article or advert, or through the website or an internet search.
Guests attend for a wide variety of reasons - some want to investigate whether God exists; others are concerned about what happens after death. Some people have particular questions that they would like to discuss; others want to understand other peoples' beliefs or would like to explore what the purpose of life is. 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.
How does the course work?
The course is based around small groups of about 12 people, hosted by one or two leaders whose role is to facilitate and encourage discussion.
Courses are held in the evenings from 7 PM until 9.30 PM.
The whole course lasts for 10 weeks, with a weekend away in the middle.
Each session begins with a meal providing an opportunity to get to know others in the small group. There is then a short DVD, which looks at a different aspect of the Christian faith each week.This is followed by a time of discussion in the small groups, where everyone is welcome to contribute their opinion, ask questions and discuss with the rest of the group.
The emphasis is upon exploration and discovery in a relaxed and informal environment.
There is no charge for attending the Alpha course, except for a moderate charge to cover food and accomodation on the weekend away.
Course Content
The talks each week cover the following topics, which people are then free to discuss in the small groups afterwards:
Week 1 Who is Jesus?
Week 2 Why did Jesus Die?
Week 3 How can we have Faith?
Week 4 Why and how do I Pray?
Week 5 Why and how should I Read the Bible?
Week 6 How does God Guide us?
Week 7 How can I Resist Evil?
Week 8 Why and how should I tell Others?
Week 9 Does God Heal Today?
Week 10 What about the Church?
Weekend away
Who is the Holy Spirit?
What does the Holy Spirit do?
How can I be Filled with the Holy Spirit?
How can I Make the Most of the Rest of my Life?
Quotes on Alpha from various secular publications:
The message is chatty and non-threatening. It is peppered with personal anecdote and references which appeal to the well-read and to popular culture"
The New Zealand Herald
"What Alpha offers, and what is attracting thousands of people, is permission, rare in secular culture, to discuss the big questions - life and death and their meaning."
The Guardian
"What distinguishes Alpha from other initiatives is the easy-going, relaxed feel of the proceedings - that, and its astonishing success."
The Times, London
"Many claim Alpha has changed their lives and appear genuinely happier for the experience."
Time Magazine
"Alpha makes Christianity relevant to modern life."
The Express, London
Do you want to find out more about the meaning of life?
Do you have questions to ask?
You are invited to check out our next
Come to an introductory dinner where you can find out more about the course.
Why a dinner?
The dinner allows you to check out the course.
A DVD titled “Is there more to life than this?” will be shown.
You are guaranteed: Great food, good company, no pressure and no commitment to the course by coming to the dinner.
Come to the dinner and find out more about the
Alpha course.
April 19 2010
7.00pm
For more information or to register for the dinner contact
Lynda or Mike Collins on 352 9926 or mlcollins@clear.net.nz
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