Alpha FAQs

What exactly is the Alpha Course?

The Alpha Course is an opportunity for anyone to explore the Christian faith in a relaxed, non-threatening manner over ten, thought-provoking weekly sessions.

Where did the Alpha Course originate?

The Alpha Course has been running for more than 26 years. It began at Holy Trinity Church, Brompton in central London, in the late 1970s. In 1990, former lawyer Nicky Gumbel took over the leadership of the course. Alpha was designed to help people explore the basic principles of the Christian faith in a relaxed, informal setting. Consequently it became a very attractive venue for both Christians and non-church goers. People of other faiths and people who have expressed no religious faith have found Alpha to be a welcoming place to ask questions and have meaningful conversations about Christianity and spirituality. During the 1990s, the Alpha Course spread – first throughout the UK and then internationally – as more churches and groups found it a helpful way to answer people’s questions about the Christian faith. Now, there are more than 33,500 courses run in 163 countries, and the Alpha Course is supported by all major denominations. Over 16 Million people worldwide have participated in the Alpha Course.

What is the format of the Alpha Course?

Dinner.

There is a light meal together at the beginning of each session which gives people a chance to relax and get to know each other better.

Talk.

After the meal, there will be a talk covering an aspect of the Christian faith.

Coffee and Conversation.

Following the talk, there will be an opportunity to have a conversation about the talk in a small group setting. Listen, learn, discuss and discover. Ask anything. Alpha is a safe place where no question is too simple or too hostile.

What is the timeframe and schedule of Alpha?

The Alpha Course meets once a week for ten weeks. Between weeks 6 and 7, there is an overnight retreat (Friday – Saturday). The weekly meetings are about two and a half hours long, which includes the dinner.

What is the purpose of the overnight retreat?

The overnight retreat spices things up a little. It allows the participants to “play together” -- to laugh and have fun. The format of talks and discussions will continue on the retreat, but there will be more time just to relax and enjoy!

What is the cost of participating in the Alpha Course?

There is no cost to participate in the Alpha Course. City Church has underwritten the course for all participants. We feel that this is what Jesus would want us to do. Participants are given the opportunity to help with the cost of the retreat (approximately $60 per person). However, no one will be hindered from going on the retreat due to financial concerns. Also, at the meetings, we may occasionally place a basket in a discrete location for anyone who would like to make a donation, but this is completely voluntary. There will be no pressure.

Will there be childcare?

Yes, childcare will be provided for all the weekly sessions. Because of the nature of the retreat, we ask that participants with children arrange their own childcare for this event.

Who can I talk to for more information?

Becky Stevens.  You can contact her at 423.648.2961 or bstevens@thecitychurch.cc.