ALPHA @ WESTSIDEJoin us on Friday, February 1st at 7:30 p.m. for dinner to mark the start of Alpha. Families will be starting Alpha on Sunday, February 3rd at 4:00 p.m. EXPLORE ALPHAWHAT IS ALPHA?
The Alpha course is your opportunity to explore the Christian faith. No question is too simple, too tough or too out there. Try us. WHAT CAN I EXPECT? Over 7 or 10 weeks you can expect relevant topics, relatable hosts, and a relaxed environment. Each session begins with a meal or refreshments, providing an opportunity to get to know others in a casual setting. This is followed by a short talk, which examines a different aspect of the Christian faith, then open discussion. TOPICS COVERED Some of the questions we’ll explore are: How Does God Guide Us? Who is Jesus? Why and how do I pray? How can I develop a relationship with God? What about the Church? Is there more to life than this? WHO’S IT FOR Everyone. Over 19 million people have attended Alpha courses in tens of thousands of churches, cafes, workplaces and pubs around the world. Explore Alpha in all it’s various contexts, there’s an Alpha around the corner for you. ANYTHING ELSE I SHOULD KNOW? Alpha is an established global ministry, engaging people wherever they are on their journey. Each course runs an average of 7 to 10 weeks with one weekend commitment. You don’t have to come to the whole course – pop in for the first night and see what you think. No pressure. **Excerpts are taken from http://www.alphacanada.org/explore-alpha/ |
ALPHA FAQsWho is the Alpha course for?
The Alpha course is designed primarily for people who aren’t churchgoers. It attracts a diverse range of guests, including people of different ages and backgrounds, all with differing viewpoints. Do I need to be a Christian to do the course? No, you don’t need to be a Christian. The course is designed for anyone who is interested in asking questions or learning more about the Christian faith. Many guests have never been to church before. How much does it cost? There is no charge for attending the Alpha course, although courses may ask for a contribution towards the food and / or refreshments. Are my questions too controversial for church? All questions are welcome on the Alpha course. The course is designed for people to freely ask the tough questions about life and the Christian faith. Does the course explore other religions? The Alpha course is an exploration of the Christian faith only. What if I try it and don’t want to come back? The Alpha course aims to be a low-pressure and non-threatening experience. If you don’t feel that the course is for you, you are under no obligation to return. Why do people go on the Alpha course? Guests do Alpha for a variety of reasons; some want to investigate whether God exists or question what happens after death, whereas others come to discuss particular questions, understand other peoples’ beliefs or explore the meaning of life. How long does the course last? The Alpha course usually takes place over 7 or 10 weeks, with a day or weekend away in the middle depending on what material the course is using. What is the format of the course? Each session begins with a meal or refreshments, and a chance to get to know others in the small group. This is followed by a short talk and a time of discussion, when everyone is welcome to ask questions and share their opinion with the rest of their small group. What size is the course? Alpha courses are usually based around small groups of about 12 people, which are led by one or two hosts. The role of the host is to facilitate and encourage discussion. Whatever the course size, people tend to remain in the same small groups for the duration of the course. That way they can get to know each other, continue discussions and develop friendships. What happens if I miss a session? If you’ve missed a session you can visit the course catch-up page. **Excerpts are taken from http://www.alphacanada.org/faq/ |
