ALPHA is Here!
What Is Alpha?
Alpha is an opportunity to explore the meaning of life in a relaxed, friendly setting. The Alpha course at Providence will meet every Monday for 10 weeks starting on September 13th. Each session, people enjoy great food, laughter and learning in a fun and friendly atmosphere where no question about life or God is seen as too simple or too hostile…questions like—Is there a God? Why am I here? Where did I come from? Where am I going?
Each gathering begins with a meal or refreshments - a chance to get to know others. Then there is a short talk 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 welcome to contribute their opinion and ask questions. People usually stay in the same small groups for the duration of the course so they can get to know each other, continue discussions and deepen friendships. The emphasis is upon exploration and discovery in a relaxed and informal environment.
The talks each week cover the following topics, acting as a springboard for the small group discussions:
|
Introduction Dinner: |
Is there more to life than this? |
| Week 1: | Who is Jesus? |
| Week 2: | Why did Jesus die? |
| Week 3: | How can we have faith? |
| Week 4: | Why and how do I pray? |
| Week 5: | Why and how should I read the Bible? |
|
Week 6: |
How does God guide us? |
| Week 7: | How can I resist evil? |
| Week 8: | Why & how should we tell others? |
| Week 9: | Does God heal today? |
| Week 10: | What about the Church? |
What Other Church Leaders Are Saying...
"The Alpha format is definitely a huge improvement and right for our time, because process is involved instead of a quick presentation and it is more communal."
Tim Keller
Author and Pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church
“Alpha is definitely a powerful tool for reaching the lost for Christ and helping them mature in their faith.”
The late Bill Bright
Campus Crusade for Christ
“Most of us skip bases in developing our faith, leaving us plagued with unanswered questions. Alpha fills the gaps. Alpha fosters spiritual peace and stability.”
Bob Buford
Founder: Leadership Network
Author, 'Halftime; Changing Your Game Plan from Success to Significance'
“In recent years Nicky Gumbel has helped millions of people consider the claims of Jesus Christ in fresh and stimulating ways through a course he put together called Alpha. It is in 130 countries throughout the world. It has swept Europe, Africa and increasingly the U.S., and very few people alive have done this much to help people far from God draw nearer to Him – and many find Him.”
Bill Hybels
Senior Pastor, Willow Creek Community Church
Chairman of the Board, Willow Creek Association
Bill Hybels
Senior Pastor, Willow Creek Community Church
Chairman of the Board, Willow Creek Association