Alpha course at Emmanuel

This course has proven to be a great way of encouraging people to have meaningful dialogue around life and faith issues.

Alpha is facilitated in a non-threatening environment and encourages people to ask some of the ‘deeper questions’ without fear or inhibition. ‘No question is a wrong question’ is a familiar saying in Alpha.

The Alpha course spread during the 1990s, initially in the UK and then internationally, as more churches and groups found it a helpful way to answer questions about the Christian faith in an informal setting.

There are now over 33,500 courses worldwide in 163 countries and it is supported by all the major denominations.

The Alpha course is designed primarily for people who aren't churchgoers and each course is open to everyone who would like to attend.

Guests do Alpha 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.

Alpha courses are based around small groups of about 12 people, hosted by one or two leaders whose role is to facilitate and encourage discussion.

The whole Alpha course usually lasts for 10 weeks, with a day or weekend away in the middle.

Each session begins with a meal or refreshments - a chance to get to know others in the small group. There is then a short talk, 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

The talks each week cover a variety topics, which people are then free to discuss in the small groups afterwards.

The course begins at Emmanuel Church on Sunday, September 19, at 6.30pm and runs on consecutive Sunday nights for 10 weeks.

The first night takes the form of a three-course meal free of charge. This will end with a short 10-minute talk explaining the Alpha program after which the individual can choose whether or not he/she wants to continue.

The course is run in an informal and friendly environment and you are warmly invited to be part of this program.

If you have any other questions please do not hesitate to call on 3831 6998 and speak to Grant Martin.