alpha

06th October - 8th December 2011

The Alpha course is designed primarily for people who aren't churchgoers and each course is open to everyone who would like to attend.

If you want to investigate whether God exists, are concerned about what happens after death, want to understand other peoples' beliefs or would like to explore what the purpose of life is, then this course is for you.

If you have attended church occasionally or even regularly, but feel that you have never really understood the basics of the Christian faith, then this course is for you too.

The evening starts between 7 and 7.30 p.m., with a light supper, followed by a DVD and then group discussion. The evening lasts for approximately two and a half hours, including refreshments.

Course Contents

Week 1	October 06th	Who is Jesus?
		Guests are asked to share their understanding about Jesus - followed by a discussion
Week 2	October 13th	Why did Jesus Die?
		The all important subject of Jesus’ death is discussed: How does His death differ from a war hero, or a prophet? What does his death signify? When the Bible says he died for our sins, what does this really mean?
Week 3	October 20th	How can we have faith?
		The difference between faith and knowledge is looked at. Other topics explored this week: What does it really mean to be a Christian? Is a Christian someone born in a Christian country or a church attendee?
Week 4	October 27th	Why and how do I pray?
		In looking at why and how should we pray? We discuss: Does God answer prayers What can stop our prayers from being heard and answered?
Week 5	November 03rd	Why and how should I read the bible?
		The Bible is a love letter from God to us: Is it enough to study it, read it, underline it, or is it meant to be read to lead us into a meaningful relationship with Christ?
Week 6	November 10th	How does God guide us?
		The importance of being led by God and being able to hear when he is speaking to us, is explored along with the different ways in which God speaks to us
Week 7	November 17th	How can I resist evil?
		As Christians Satan will forever try to tempt us to sin. Strategies for resisting temptation and evil is explored this week.
Week 8	November 24th	How and why do we tell others?
		This week we talk about the importance of sharing our faith with others once we become Christians. Is it possible to be a Christian and not tell anyone?
Week 9	December 01st	Does God heal today?
		The subject of healing is discussed Why are some people healed and not others Why do some people die despite being prayed for? We will also pray for the sick.
Week 10	December 08th	What about the church?

AWAY DAY		The Away Day, either during or at the end of the course will explore:
		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?