7 Reasons to Run Alpha More Than Once a Year

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In How to Run the Alpha Course, Nicky Gumbel instructs “It is of utmost importance, in order to maintain the momentum, to run at least three courses a year. When people complete Alpha, they very often want to invite their families and friends to the next course, and it is important that one is available.”
Here are a few more reasons why running Alpha more than once a year is beneficial:
1. It gets people talking about spirituality!  This includes ALL sorts of people – those with no religion, other religions, new believers, etc. - who can explore and experience solid Biblical teaching and authentic community in a safe, inviting environment.
2. It tells the community that the church has an open door.  Even if people don’t attend Alpha, they know there’s another course starting soon. When they’re ready to attend, they know Alpha will welcome them (at the church, or the pub, or on campus, or the boardroom, etc).
3. It keeps the church focused on outreach. Many programs are designed for church members, but Alpha is for the unchurched. When the pastor talks about Alpha in his/her sermons, and asks for volunteers and shares testimonies, the congregation’s passion for sharing hope & healing is rekindled.
4. It fosters unity in and among the church. As volunteers with diverse gifts rally together for one purpose, they learn about teamwork. Cooks, decorators, book table fans, small group leaders, and task force members join forces and serve together. Different denominations network together to serve the people in the community.
5. It encourages leadership development.  Alpha is a place for guests to become helpers, and for helpers to become leaders. It’s a place where people can develop their leadership skills, spiritual gifts, social skills, etc. As they are mentored, practice makes perfect (ok well almost) and they in turn will lead and mentor others. Running Alpha 3x a year or more provides this momentum.
6. It builds relationship with the community. There are no dividing walls at Alpha. Christians make friends with non-Christians and friendships are formed regardless of beliefs or stage of life. Alpha allows trust to be built over time.
7. It strengthens the faith of all. Although the Alpha course is an opportunity to help people discuss and discover a relationship with Jesus Christ, many who are already Christians find that they re-discover their love for Jesus. Many questioning doubters experience God in a fresh way that re-calibrates their faith and purpose in life.

I will be posting about our recent Alpha Staff Retreat, but for now I thought this entry from alpha is an important one for all churches to remember, for the reasons given.

Blessings,

John

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