What Is Alpha?                                                                      

Alpha is an opportunity to explore the meaning of life in a relaxed, friendly setting. The Alpha course usually meets once per week for 10 weeks, and includes an amazing one-day or weekend getaway. 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?
 

Who Is Alpha For?

Alpha is for anyone…anyone who thinks there may be more to life than meets the eye.

People attend from all backgrounds, religions, and viewpoints. They come to investigate questions about the existence of God, the purpose of life, the afterlife, the claims of Jesus and more. Some people want to get beyond religion and find a relationship with God that really changes life. Others come for the close, long-lasting friendships that are built during the Alpha course.

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. Everyone is welcome.

What Happens At Alpha?

The Alpha course usually lasts 10 weeks, with a day or weekend getaway in the middle. Courses vary in size, from one small group meeting in a home, to hundreds of people in a church. Some courses are held over morning coffee or during a lunch hour. Most are evening courses, typically lasting 2 hours.

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?
Weekend:	Who is the Holy Spirit?
	What does the Holy Spirit do?
	How can I be filled with the Holy Spirit?
	How can I make the most of the rest of my life?

How Much Will It Cost?

How do I get Involved?

Alpha is open to anyone but is especially designed for those investigating Christianity, newcomers to church, new believers or believers wishing to refresh their faith and deepen their experience of God’s grace.  Everyone who has been a part of previous Alpha sessions are asked to invite others to attend.  If you are interested in joining us or assisting with this session, contact the church office or use the tear-off tab in the weekly bulletin to sign-up.

For more information:

• Call the CUMC Office:  (740) 353-2548
• E-mail CUMC:  cornerstone808@frognet.net
• www.alpha.org