Alpha
Have you ever asked yourself the question, "Is there more to life than this?".
Come to the FREE Alpha Dinner on
Sunday February 26th from
6-8pm in the
Outreach Center
to explore the meaning of life where you will experience...
-an open and relaxed atmosphere,
-share a great meal,
-watch a short video on Christianity,
-listen to testimonies of lives changed by ALHPA,
-and receive an invitation to the 10-week ALPHA Course.
The Course begins the following Sunday night (details below), also from 6-8pm in the Outreach Center. Childcare is available and a meal for kids age 3 and up is provided.
SIGN UP HERE!
Please fill out THIS FORM to let us know that you'll be joining us.
For more info on the ALPHA Course please contact Mark McKnelly at mcknelly(at)schweitzerumc.org or 417.881.6800 x241
* For info on ALPHA Sprouts (K-5th grade) please contact Liz Craig at lcraig(at)schweitzerumc.org or 417.881.6800 x235
** For info on the activities for youth (6th-12th grade) please contact Tim Smith at tsmith(at)schweitzerumc.org or 417.881.6800 x229
MORE ABOUT THE COURSE!
What is the ALPHA Course?
Simply put it is a practical introduction to the Christian faith. It answers questions like: Who is Jesus? and Why did he die? and How can I have faith? The ALPHA Course meets Sunday nights for 10 weeks, with one as an extended evening about the Holy Spirit. Each Alpha session people enjoy great food, laughter and learning in a fun and friendly atmosphere where no question about life or God is seen as too simple or too hostile…questions like—Is there a God? Why am I here? Where did I come from? Where am I going?
Who is the ALPHA Course For?
ALPHA is for those outside the church, anyone new to Christianity or the church as well as Christians looking to affirm the essentials of what they believe. People attend from all backgrounds, religions, and viewpoints. They come to investigate questions about the existence of God, the purpose of life, the afterlife, the claims of Jesus and more. Some people want to get beyond religion and find a relationship with God that really changes their everyday life. Others come for the close, long-lasting friendships that are built during the ALPHA Course. Many guests have never been to church, others may have attended church occasionally but feel they have never really understood the basics of the Christian faith. Everyone is welcome.
What happens at the ALPHA Course?
Each gathering begins with a meal and a chance to get to know others. Then there is a short talk which looks at a different aspect of the Christian faith each week. This is followed by a time of discussion in small groups, where everyone is welcome to contribute their opinion and ask questions. People stay in the same small groups for the duration of the Course so they can get to know each other, continue discussions and deepen friendships. The emphasis is upon exploration and discovery in a relaxed and informal environment. The talks each week act as a springboard for the small group discussions.
How much does the ALPHA Course cost?
It is free, the meal and childcare are included, however donations are accepted and appreciated.