Trinity Evangelical Church

Alpha Course Information: New Class forming April 14, 2010

Alpha is a ten-week opportunity to explore the validity and relevance of the Christian faith for our lives today. It is a practical introduction to the basics of Christianity with loads of opportunity for debate and discussion. The style of Alpha is informal, friendly and non-pressured.

Alpha is enjoyed and appreciated as much by those who have never set foot in a church as it is by those who once attended and by the regular churchgoer. No matter what their background, whether investigating Christianity for the first time or revisiting their faith, participants get a lot out of an Alpha Course.

Each week people meet together for a meal, a talk on topics such as "Who is Jesus?", "Why Did Jesus Die?", "How Can I be Sure of My Faith?", and "Does God Still Heal Today?" , followed by small group interaction. There is a day or weekend retreat midway through the course, which focuses on the person and work of the Holy Spirit.

There are over 3000 Alpha courses running in the US and about 500,000 Americans have already participated. Most Americans live within easy access of an Alpha course.

Churches of every different type and background, including Anglican, Baptist, Presbyterian, Roman Catholic, Methodist, Pentecostal, Salvation Army, Free Church and House Churches are running Alpha. Because Alpha covers the basics of Christianity all churches provide the same material, making alterations only to suit the local culture.

Alpha originated at Holy Trinity Brompton - an Anglican church in London, England over twenty years ago. The syllabus of the course is contained in the Book "Questions of Life" by Revd Nicky Gumbel.

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 Thousands of Alpha courses are now running in many countries and it has been translated into many different languages.

Church leaders from all denominations report the astonishing impact the course has on non-churchgoers and existing Christians in their areas. And it's spreading fast to many secular locations - prisons, university campuses, businesses and schools.

 Who is Alpha for?

• Those wanting to investigate Christianity.
• New Christians.
• Those who feel that they have never really got going as a Christian.
• Newcomers to the church.
• Those who want to brush-up on the basics.

 What is Involved?

The evening Alpha course begins  with supper, followed by a talk. We then divide into smaller groups for coffee and cookies to discuss any questions raised from the talk. 

There is an opportunity to go on a weekend away. This has been a key part of the Alpha course and a great success in helping people get to know each other.

What will it cost?

There is no charge for the Alpha course, although a small contribution might be requested for the meal each evening and for the food and accommodation during the Alpha week-end away. 

When and where?

The evening Alpha course usually runs once a week for 11 weeks at our church. There is also one weekend getaway. Please give us a call for details 503-590-5683.