A movement where Christ is named

Alpha

Evangelism & teaching · Founded 1977 · by Charles Marnham, Holy Trinity Brompton · London, United Kingdom

Alpha is a series of interactive sessions that explore the basics of the Christian faith, welcoming people to ask questions in a relaxed, no-pressure setting. It began at Holy Trinity Brompton, an Anglican church in London, and was later developed for a wider audience. Alpha is run by churches of many denominations around the world, usually built around a meal, a talk, and open discussion.

What they do

Alpha runs as a course of sessions, typically hosted by local churches, where guests share a meal, watch or listen to a talk introducing a Christian theme, and then discuss it together in small groups.

The talks cover questions such as who Jesus is, why he died, how to pray, and how to read the Bible. Many Alpha courses include a weekend or day away focused on the person and work of the Holy Spirit.

Alpha provides its films and materials to churches and organizations, and versions have been adapted for students, youth, prisons, and workplaces.

The Scripture behind the work

“And Nathanael said unto him, Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth? Philip saith unto him, Come and see.”
“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:”
“These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”
“And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.”

Where the door leads

Alpha invites people to consider the person of Jesus Christ for themselves, without pressure, through honest conversation and community. A reader might find a local Alpha course through a nearby church and simply come to listen, ask questions, and see. It offers a low-key first step for anyone curious about the Christian faith.

Who is Jesus? · How Christ meets you

Connect to the real thing

Their work: alpha.org
A church near you: Find one on the map
Serve where you are: Find a way to help

The Living Bread is a door, not the destination. The life is with Christ and his people.

People also ask

Do I have to believe anything to attend Alpha?

No. Alpha is designed for people who are exploring, including those with no faith background, and questions and disagreement are welcomed.

Who runs Alpha?

Alpha is run by local churches across many denominations. It originated at Holy Trinity Brompton, an Anglican church in London.

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