Alpha Course Aims for Deeper Understanding of Christian Faith

“What is the meaning of Life?” … “Is there a God?” … “Do I have a purpose and what is it?” … If you are questioning your faith or relationship with God or even the existence of God, St. John’s Church of Darien is extending you an invitation to join others, like yourself, sharing in these same questions, fears and desires to explore and enter into a journey of faith and renewal with Christ.

For those that have taken this Alpha journey, the universal theme in their testimonials is one of gratitude and aliveness in their relationship with God to one of complete life transformation, coming from a deeper relationship with Jesus or understanding and faith they never had nor knew existed prior to the course.

St. John’s extends an invitation to all seeking these answers and a restored faith in God, from regular parishioners to those that have lost their connection with their faith and/or congregation.

It is a course in Christian foundation, perfect for those born and practicing in their faiths to those new to Christianity or non-churchgoers seeking a reintroduction to their Christianity and a way back to renewing their relationship with God.

History of the Alpha Course

The Alpha Course was designed and implemented in the late 1970s at Holy Trinity Brompton in central London, England as a means to present the basic principles of the Christian faith to new Christians in a relaxed and informal group setting.

By 1990s, when Nicky Gumbel, a former attorney, took over the Alpha course, Alpha became a central feature of the church’s life. As the word-of-mouth continued to grow and spread among its course graduates, many non-churchgoers and others began taking the course as a personal journey of faith and renewal in God.

Nicky then sent the Alpha course content to representatives of 44 denominations to review and ask if they had any disagreement in content. None did. Some wanted additions made to content for denomination, which were denied. Alpha course is designed for wide distribution and inclusion of all people of faith seeking a renewal in their relationship with God and is supported by all major denominations.

As Bear Grylls, a past participant of Alpha and the current Host of “Man vs. Wild” on the Discovery Channel says, “Alpha is a way to explore what we hunger after – meaning, intimacy & relationship … in a very non-pressed, non judgmental environment.”

During the 1990s, the Alpha course continued to spread through the UK and then internationally as more churches and groups found it a helpful way to answer people’s questions about the Christian faith.

Now, more than 60,000 courses run in 169 countries annually with an estimated 19.6 million people having attended globally. Locally, St. John’s has been hosting the Alpha course for the past 7 years with over 300 people having attended this Alpha course.

Each evening begins with a complimentary dinner and a chance to get to know others in our parish community. Then there is a video presentation which looks at a different aspect of the Christian faith each week. This is followed by a time of discussion in small groups, where everyone is able to contribute their opinion and ask questions.

Remaining in small groups for the duration of the course, participants get to know each other, continue discussions and deepen friendships. St. John’s will be hosting a Taste of Alpha for anyone interested in finding out more about this course—without any commitments.

The Taste of Alpha will be held Wednesday, September 17 from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm at the Parish Hall. (Park behind the church in parking lot and you will be directed. All are welcome to this special event. For more information, go to HYPERLINK “http://www.stjohnalpha.com” www.stjohnalpha.com for more information.

What people who attended say

Here are some testimonials about Alpha from past St. John participants:

• “Without over-dramatizing it, I would say Alpha was a true life-changer. It was a reminder of the Grace and Compassion of God at a time when life’s events could have made me become bitter. Instead, this course opened me up to the feeling of gratitude and forgiveness. Forgiveness s truly a gift you can give yourself and I thank Alpha for reminding me of this,” explained Jane Pelletier.
• “When I joined Alpha, I knew I was searching for something, but didn’t really know what it was,” said Angeli. “I’ve loved Jesus all my life, but Alpha opened my eyes—and heart—to who Jesus really is and what He does for us. Every session had “AHA!” moments and I truly wish everyone shares in this passionate gift.”

• “The small group discussions with Alpha brought the Catholic perspective into our lives. As we progressed in discussions and activities, I came to understand and experience what it is to be filled with the Holy Spirit. I recommend this course to life seekers, practicing Catholics or Christians, and those indifferent to the faith. You will also share with like-minded great people,” explained Christina Treffner.
• “If you really want to know God personally, come to an Alpha course. Not only can your faith be enlightened in a way you never though possible, but it can change the way you look at life. I have been an Alpha member for 5 years and the course has taught me more in 5 years than I have learned in a lifetime,” explained Pat Blackman.

• “Alpha has made me want to have a deeper relationship with God, and given me the tools to achieve that end. It has changed me, not in an Earth-shattering way, but in small ways.” Peg S.