Thousands of people around the world are now taking part in Alpha courses – a ten week practical introduction to the Christian faith, designed primarily for non-churchgoers.

Over the 15 session course, the talks address Jesus life, his death and resurrection and topics such as the Bible, prayer and healing. An integral part of Alpha is the weekend or day away where the focus is on the person and work of the Holy Spirit.

After the talk, guests are divided into groups of ten to twelve people, hosted by a group leader and two helpers, in which they remain for the duration of the course. The talks act as a catalyst for open discussion in an environment where each person should feel free to ask or express whatever they wish.

At the end of the course a party is held to celebrate the completion of the course - which also gives a great opportunity for guests to show their friends and family what Alpha is about.

The Alpha course works best as part of an ongoing process of evangelism and discipleship within a church. There is a range of different follow-up materials and courses available to help people to grow in their faith.

If you are new to running an Alpha course, a free information pack is available from admin@alpha.org.au for those who have never run Alpha before.