The Alpha Course

What is the Alpha Course?

Alpha is a series of sessions exploring life, faith and meaning. It is a chance to explore the big questions and is a very open and welcoming. Alpha has great videos that focus on the essence of Christian faith. It is also a good way to get to know others as each session begins by participants sharing a meal together.

Why did we decide to run it in the parish?

Alpha has been incredibly successful in churches around the world. Many Catholic churches now run Alpha and it has been appreciated by longstanding members of the parish, as much as new members, and those who haven’t stepped foot in a Church before. Alpha is also helping Catholic parishes answer the call for the New Evangelisation. Inviting a friend or family member along to Alpha is a wonderful thing! Alpha was trialled in the parish in 2019.

What does the course involve?

The Alpha course consists of 8 sessions, each with three parts – meal, video and small group discussion.  Each session lasts for about 1.5 hours.

Why should I consider taking part in the Alpha Course?

What makes Alpha distinctive is that it’s open and honest. Everyone is welcome and you don’t have to have any prior knowledge of Christianity. For us Brits, speaking about faith can be hard but Alpha makes it easy. The pilot group in our parish loved the videos and found the content uplifting. Many people remarked that they really valued getting to know people in the parish. Coming together each week for a meal and a chat meant that we started as strangers and left as friends.

When will it next run in the parish?

If you would be interested in taking part the next Alpha Course please speak to the Parish Priest or contact the Parish Office to register your interest.

You can find out more about Alpha in the Catholic Church here.