Alpha // Evening 01 May 2013 / Morning 08 May

Over 15 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 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, London

"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 is an unqualified triumph."

The Daily Telegraph, London

"Alpha makes Christianity relevant to modern life."

The Express, London

What is Alpha?

The Alpha course, is an opportunity for anyone to explore the Christian faith. It’s relaxed, low key, friendly and fun. Listen, learn, discuss and discover. And ask anything. Alpha is a place where no question is too simple or too hostile. And it’s supported by all the main Christian denominations.

The Evening course starts 01 May 2013 at 7pm and the Morning course on 08 May at 9.45am

What’s involved?

The Alpha course looks at a series of topics, such as ‘How can I develop a relationship with God?’. After a short presentation, we divide into small groups for a time of informal discussion.

Alpha will be running on Wednesday nights from 7 – 9pm in the Church for 9 weeks, beginning 01 May 2013.   The morning course starts on 08 May from 9.45am - 11am and runs for 7 weeks.  You don’t have to come to the whole course – just pop along for the first night and see what you think. No pressure.

Who is Alpha for?

Alpha is for everyone, especially:

  • Those wanting to investigate Christianity
  • New Christians
  • Newcomers to church
  • Those who want to brush up on the basics

No question is out of bounds and you are free to discuss as much or as little as you wish. We don’t assume any background knowledge of or belief in Christianity and everyone is welcome.

What are the topics?

Week 1 – 01 May           Alpha taster night: Is there more to life than this?

Week 2 – 08 May           Who is Jesus?

Week 3 – 15 May           Why did Jesus die?

Week 4 – 22 May           How can we have faith?

Week 5 – 29 May           Why and how do I pray?

Week 6 – 05 Jun           Why and how should I read the Bible?

Week 7 – 12 Jun           How can I resist evil?

Week 8 – 19 Jun           Does God heal today?

Week 9 – 26 Jun           What about the Church? Why and how should I tell others?

Alpha Weekend 07 – 09 June 2013

(These topics are covered over 7 weeks for the Morning Alpha course)

What will it cost?

The course is absolutely free. If you'd like to, you can make a small voluntary contribution towards dinner on the evening.

Okay, I'm interested...what next?

To pre-register, email us.

Alternatively you can just come along on the night!

I look forward to meeting you in May.

ARCHIE COATES

Alpha Recommended Reading

Each week we recommend some extra reading. Here's what we suggest:

Who is Jesus (week 2)

Mere Christianity CS Lewis
Basic Christianity John Stott

Why did Jesus die? (week 3)

The Case Against Christ John Young

Faith? (week 4)

The Reason for God: Belief in an age of scepticism Tim Keller
One Step Beyond Gram Seed

Prayer (week 5)

God on Mute Pete Greig
Too Busy Not to Pray Bill Hybels

Bible (week 6)

Why Trust in the Bible? Amy Orr-Ewing
30 Days: A Practical Introduction to Reading the Bible Nicky Gumble

Resist Evil (week 7)

How Can I Resist Evil? Nicky Gumble
Chasing the Dragon Jackie Pullinger

Healing (week 8)

Dancer off her toes Julie Sheldon

The Church, telling others (week 9)

Café Theology Michael Lloyd
What’s So Amazing about Grace? Philip Yancey
The Purpose Driven Life Rick Warren
God At Work Ken Costa