What Is Alpha?

Alpha is an opportunity to explore the meaning of life in a relaxed, friendly setting. 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?

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. At MVC, times and days may vary.

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.

A typical outline of an Alpha course is below and the commentary above (adapted) are both taken taken from Alpha. To learn more about an upcoming Alpha Course at MVC contact us.

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?