The Alpha Course is a practical introduction to the Christian faith and is open to anyone.
The course is based around small groups of about 10-12 people, hosted by one or two leaders whose role is to facilitate and encourage discussion within the group. The whole course lasts for 10 weeks with an 'Overnight stay away on a weekend'.
Course sessions begin with a meal, then there are talks (DVD) and small group discussion where there is the opportunity to ask questions and explore the topics.
The weekend overnight stay is a KEY part of the course as well as being great fun.
There is no charge for Alpha although we do invite a donation towards the meals and weekend
costs.
The topics covered over the course of 10 weeks are:
1. Introductory Session : Is there more to life than this?
2. Who is Jesus?
3. Why Did Jesus Die?
4. How Can We Have Faith?
5. Why & How Do I Pray?
6. Why an How Should I Read the Bible?
7. How Does God Guide us?
8. Who is the Holy Spirit?
9. What Does the Holy Spirit Do?
10. How Can I Be Filled with the Holy Spirit?
11. How Can I Resist Evil?
12. Why and How Should I Tell Others?
13. Does God Heal Today?
14. What about the Church?
15. How Can I Make the Most of the Rest of My Life?
For more information on the Alpha programme, contact the parish office.
Co-ordinator, Heidi Nield, phone (07) 575-4807 ext 3.
Next 2010 course will begin on October 13th at 6.00pm at St Thomas More Catholic Church, 17 Gloucester Rd, Mount Maunganui.
Overnight Retreat (Weekend) is 26th-27th November held at Keswick in Rotorua.
Come and explore and discover the meaning of life in a relaxed and informal environment.
Some comments from previous Alpha Course participants:
"The Alpha talks were humorous and inspiring, made me think more about my faith and develop a better
relationship with God."
"After the 'Alpha Weekend' I now have a greater understanding of 'The Holy Spirit', it toally confirmed my love of Jesus."
"I experienced the love of Christ in all those who went to the Alpha Weekend."
"Joyful, profound experience."