To be a growing, loving family,
with Christ at the centre,
reaching out to all

Alpha Course in Walton-on-Thames
Sylvia Green - September 2004

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What Alpha meant to me

I originally went along to Alpha simply because I wanted to 'learn more'. I had recently started to attend St Mary's after a long absence from the church. What I had not expected to find on the Alpha course was the warmth and friendliness of the people involved. I kept thinking how 'nice' everyone was (I don't know quite what I'd expected!) Plus I was so impressed with the number of people willingly giving their time, not just in running the actual course, but also in providing the supper.

So the first thing Alpha taught me was about Christian warmth. That warmth was amply reinforced by Nicky Gumbel on the videos, as he talked about the many aspects of the Christian faith, often including amusing anecdotes.

The second thing I discovered was that Alpha really was 'non threatening' and there was no pressure of any kind. In the group discussions, after watching the video, it was okay to ask about anything at all that you didn't understand. I was constantly amazed that other people had similar doubts and questions to me. I was never once made to feel ignorant or even guilty. In fact, it's very rare for me to speak up in a group, especially where I don't know anyone - but I found myself joining in.

I had previously been rather private about my own faith and didn't talk about it very much but the third thing that Alpha taught me was the joy of sharing. The Alpha group I was in was very varied, with people from several different churches plus we had non-believers right through to committed Christians. So we had quite a mix in our discussions and there is something very special about learning, and growing, together. I have made some very special new friends through Alpha and have continued studying with some of them.

Number four was commitment. Although I was 'a believer' I had never made a commitment to God and had not fully understood about actually forming a relationship with Him through Jesus Christ. I feel much more secure now.

I went along to Alpha to 'learn more' and I certainly did. The fifth thing that Alpha has given me is direction. I can't say I know exactly where I'm going in my life - but I've got some idea now, and most importantly - I know who is guiding me!

Sylvia Green

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Welcome   |   Services  |   Parish Diary   |   This month   |  From the Vicar   |   Stewardship
Who's who   |  St Mary's   |  Tour   |  Choir   |  Baptisms   |  Confirmation   |  Weddings
Home Groups   |   St John's   |   Young People   |  Photo Album  |  Map   |  Links

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