The Alpha Course at Pasadena Covenant Church

Alpha is a practical introduction to Christian faith.  It is practical in the sense that it is not just a curriculum—it is also an experience.  The Alpha course is for anyone who is seeking answers to questions about Christianity and life, for anyone with spiritual yearnings.  For people who already identify themselves as Christians, the course can be a great way to lay a foundation, to brush up on some of the core principles of the faith, and to enjoy the special bonds that develop among the Alpha guests. But the course was especially designed for people who are not churchgoers -- we work hard to create a safe environment where the participants can ask questions and share doubts without fear of judgment.  We are all seekers together.

The Alpha Course meets weekly for ten weeks, with a weekend retreat that takes place mid way through the course.  The course covers the following topics:

·        Christianity:  boring, untrue, and irrelevant?

·        Who is Jesus?

·        Why did Jesus die?

·        How can I be sure of my faith?

·        Why and how should I read the Bible?

·        Why and how do I pray?

·        How does God guide us?

·        Who is the Holy Spirit?

·        What does the Holy Spirit do?

·        How can I be filled with the Spirit?

·        How can I resist evil?

·        Why and how should we tell others?

·        Does God heal today?

·        What about the church?

·        How can I make the most of the rest of my life?

In a typical meeting, the first hour is spent sharing a prepared meal together in the comfort of a friendly, casual atmosphere.  The lesson is presented by showing a video recorded talk given by Nicky Gumbel, one of the pioneers of the Alpha Course, which began in England in the early 1990’s.   After the video, an experienced moderator leads a discussion of the evening’s topic.  During the discussion, participants have the freedom to ask any question and state opinions in a safe, non-judgmental setting.

Please join us for the next Alpha course, which will begin on Wednesday, March 21, 2007, in the Corner House, 565 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena.