Why did I do Alpha?

I recently attended the Alpha Course and wanted to share some of my experiences. Firstly a bit of background: my father is a Vicar and I have always been to church, but in latter years I haven’t belonged to a church or attended regular worship. When I moved to Walton I decided I wanted to change this, so my husband and I started attending St Mary’s and really enjoyed the services. After a year of attending I realised that I still did not know anybody, and it was time to take the next step. I saw the Alpha Course advertised and decided to attend. However, I only rang up to enquire two nights before the course started, and at that time was having doubts. I secretly hoped it would be full!

On the first night I stood outside St John’s church wondering whether to go in or not; it is hard to take that initial step, especially when you know nobody. I need not have worried as I was greeted by a warm and friendly group of people.

The Alpha Course follows a series of topics that are fundamental to the Christian faith. Each week we would have a meal together, watch a talk, and then break into small discussion groups. There was no pressure and always the opportunity to ask any question. I expected to enjoy the course on an intellectual level; I did not expect the experience to personally affect my faith. A pivotal point was the Holy Spirit weekend, where we joined with Holy Trinity Brompton and other churches for a weekend of fellowship. It turned out to be a fantastic event where the Holy Spirit was explored through excellent worship. My experience has resulted in a blossoming of my faith and making new friends. The Alpha Course is a credit to the church.

Berenice Page – May 2008