Practically, Alpha is a course that covers the basics of Christianity. It answers questions like: Who is Jesus?, and Why did he die? The Alpha course usually lasts 10 weeks, with a day or weekend getaway in the middle. Each week, guests gather for about two hours. They share an informal meal, sing a few songs, listen to a talk on how Christianity approaches the question at hand, then gather into small groups for discussion. The talks each week act as a springboard for small group discussions.

The best way to get a feel for Alpha is to watch the first talk. The following talk, given by Alpha Founder Nicky Gumbel, is entitled, Is There More to Life Than This?:

Alpha guests explore Christianity in a relaxed, welcoming and engaging atmosphere. Each session explores a particular question:

• Is there more to life than this?

• Who is Jesus?

• Why did Jesus die?

• How can I be sure of my faith?

• Why and how do I pray?

• Why and how should I read the Bible?

• How does God guide us?

• How can I resist evil?

• Why and how should we tell others?

• Does God heal today?

• What about the Church?

• Who Is the Holy Spirit?

• What Does the Holy Spirit Do?

• How Can I Be Filled with the Spirit?

• How Can I Make the Most of the Rest of My Life?

>> What is Alpha – spiritually?