Why Alpha?

Our American culture has decidedly shifted away from consensus that Christianity has the answers to life’s big questions. Many are not satisfied to just listen and accept truth. We want to process and discover faith for ourselves, discussing doubts and asking probing questions. The Alpha Course creates a judgement-free space where people can get to know others and have a powerful encounter with Jesus and the message of the gospel. It’s also a place where those inside the church can strengthen their faith. Around the world, over 29 million people have experienced Alpha, and more people at St. John the Divine have experienced Alpha than any other program since it began almost 30 years ago.

Here are a few facts from Barna Research about the impact on people who attended the Alpha Course:

• 82% of non-Christians described themselves as followers of Jesus after Alpha.
• 78% of Christian, non-active church goers become more committed to regularly attending church after Alpha.
• 91% of Christian regular church goers have a more intimate relationship with Jesus after Alpha.

Alpha is comprised of ten Wednesday evenings with dinner, a short presentation, and small group discussion. There is also a weekend in the middle of the course that focuses on the Holy Spirit.

Our introductory session on Wednesday, August 28 includes dinner (no charge) and a presentation from 6:30 to 8:00 pm in the Hall Life Center.

The full Alpha Course will run on Wednesdays from 6:30-8:30 PM from September 11 through November 13. The weekend session is October 18-19. Childcare is available for all Alpha activities.

Please reserve your space using our online form.

In my twenty-seven years of ministry, I have never seen a better opportunity than Alpha for introducing people to Jesus, growing their faith, and experiencing a place of Christian community. I hope you will join us this fall and bring a friend with you.