Alpha Course

Isn’t there more to life than watching Big Brother and shopping at Walmart? Don’t grapple with the vital questions of life and beyond on your own. The Alpha Course run by the Parish of the Resurrection takes place at regular intervals. What is the Alpha course?

The Alpha course is an opportunity for anyone to explore the Christian faith in a relaxed, friendly environment over eleven, thought-provoking weekly sessions.

What’s involved?
Each week, the evening begins with light refreshments or a meal where you can relax after your day, and get to know the other people in your group. Many people make lasting friendships over an Alpha supper.

After the food, there may be some musical entertainment, and then you will hear a short presentation on topics such as Who is Jesus? and Why & how do I pray? Followng the talk, we divide into small groups, taking the opportunity for a friendly but lively discussion. This is your chance to ask questions, to learn, and to give consideration to the topic for the evening. There is no question too simple or too challenging at the Alpha course.

Who is Alpha for?
Alpha is for everyone, especially:
Those who feel there must be more to life than just empty existence
Those wanting to investigate Christianity
Newcomers to the church
Those who want to brush up on the basics

You're not on your own either. The course was pioneered by a Church in London known as Holy Trinity, Brompton, and it's been run in thousands of locations across the Canada and the rest of the world. More than 2 million people worldwide have completed the Alpha course in churches, homes, schools, prisons, pubs, restaurants and universities.

How much does it cost?
Nothing - it's free! There is no charge for the Alpha course.

Weekly topics
Week 1: Christianity: Boring, Irrelevant & Untrue?
Week 2: Who is Jesus?
Week 3: Why did Jesus Die?
Week 4: How can I be sure of my faith?
Week 5:  Why & how should I read the Bible?
Week 6:  Why & how do I pray? How does God guide us?
Week 7:  How can I resist evil?    
Week 8:  Why & how should we tell others?
Week 9:  Does God heal today?
Week 10:  What about the Church?
Week 11: Celebration meal and 'taster' for new guests

Plus a special seminar day where we have brunch together and explore: Who is the Holy Spirit? What does the Holy Spirit do? How can I be filled with the Spirit?

What's in a name?
In the New Testament, in Revelation 1:9, God refers to himself as 'The Alpha and the Omega, the first and last,' mentioning the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet. This course is a place for initial enquiry, and it directs people towards God. Hence the name Alpha.