Alpha

What is Alpha About?

Mission

We equip and serve the Church in its mission to help people discover and develop a relationship with Jesus through Alpha.

Endorsed by Catholic Leaders

Alpha is an opportunity to explore life and the Christian faith in a friendly, open, safe and informal environment. It runs in churches, bars, coffee shops and homes all around the globe. Typically, Alpha has around ten sessions and each includes food, a short talk followed by a discussion where you share your thoughts.

Alpha is for anyone who’s curious. The talks are designed to encourage debate and explore the basics of the Christian faith in a friendly, honest and informal environment.

Alpha is a unique way to introduce the Kerygma, the message of the gospel, and is a proven means to fulfill the call by Pope Francis, Pope John Paul II, and Pope Benedict XVI to the “New Evangelization.” Parishes running Alpha have seen significant growth in numbers and deepened relationships with Christ. Alpha is endorsed by many Catholic leaders including Fr James Mallon, Papal teacher Fr Raniero Cantalamessa, and Cardinals Marc Ouellet, Gérald Lacroix and Christoph Schönborn.

How it works

Food

Whether it’s a group of friends gathered around a kitchen table, or a quick catch-up over coffee and cake, food has a way of bringing people together. It’s no different at Alpha.

Talk

The talks are designed to engage guests and inspire conversation. Usually around thirty minutes long, they can be given as a live talk or played as a video. They explore the big issues around faith and unpack the basics of Christianity, addressing questions such as Who is Jesus? and How can I have faith?

The Alpha Film Series is designed for today’s audience. It was filmed all around the world, and features interviews with world-famous leaders and inspiring stories.

Discussion

Probably the most important part of any Alpha: the chance to share thoughts and ideas on the topic, and simply discuss it in a small group. There’s no obligation to say anything and there’s nothing you can’t say (seriously). It’s an opportunity to hear from others and contribute your own perspective in an honest, friendly, safe and open environment.

Testimonials

“Alpha is both wise and deep. It offers an unapologetically solid gospel presentation with a safe space for dialogue, leaving room for God, by His Spirit, to change people’s hearts and lives. If you want to mobilize your church to reach out, this program will help!” Danielle Strickland, The Salvation Army

“Alpha does something that is really, really rare in our culture. It provides a safe space for people to ask whatever questions they have without fear of judgment.” Jon Tyson, Church of the City, NY

“We have been doing Alpha for over 10 years at New Life. Alpha is the best way I know that allows a local church to effectively keep outreach and evangelism as a top priority.” Pete Scazzero, Author of Emotionally Healthy Spirituality and founder of New Life Fellowship Church, NY

“I think the secret behind Alpha is the safe community it creates. Relationships are always relevant. A place where you can ask anything, you can say anything and you know you are not going to be judged.” Dave Ferguson, President of Exponential, Community Christian Church, IL

“Alpha is one of the best things happening in the Church today. For so many parishes, there is no event or program that we can be free to invite people to. But Alpha for Catholics gives us the chance to be the kind of missionary disciples that God has called us all to be. If any parish is looking for a place to be welcoming and engaging, they must offer Alpha for Catholics.” Father Mike Schmitz, Roman Catholic Diocese of Duluth, MN

“I especially appreciate the ecumenical spirit of Alpha: there is no pressure on anybody to join a different denomination, but just to join Jesus.” Father Raniero Cantalamessa, Preacher to the Papal Household

“Over the years, I have come to appreciate the profound effects that Alpha has had on so many people. Alpha provides a warm, welcoming environment where people can grapple with the deep questions of life: where do I come from; what difference can I make; where am I going; how can I find my purpose and meaning for my life, etc. Since these questions are human questions, all people are welcomed.” Bishop Eduardo Nevares, Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix, AZ