The next session begins on TUESDAY, September 12th! Scroll to the bottom to register!
Alpha will help you answer life's toughest questions.
What is Alpha?
Alpha is a series of 11 sessions exploring the Christian faith. Each session includes food, a short video that is designed to spark a thought provoking conversation, and group discussion. There is no pressure, no follow up and no charge. Since 1990, Alpha has been experienced by 29 million people of many Christian denominations from 169 countries in 112 languages. It is fully endorsed by the Catholic Church as a great starting place for many people interested in the faith.
No matter who you are, nonbeliever, cradle Catholic, or anywhere in-between, you’ve got questions, and that’s what Alpha is all about. Alpha is for anyone who is curious. The talks are designed to encourage conversation, and explore the basics of the Christian faith in a friendly, open and informal environment. No question is out of bounds, and you are free to discuss as little or as much as you wish.
What to Expect
Good Food – Like most good things, Alpha involves food. Whether its a light meal or a full dinner, every Alpha starts with shared time together over food. It’s a great way to get to know one another and build fellowship.
Good Films – All of the 30-minute Alpha films are designed to spark good conversation while exploring the big issues of faith and unpacking the fundamentals of Christianity. Every film addresses a particular question such as: Is there more to life than this? Who is Jesus? and How can we have faith?
Good Discussions – For many people this is the most valuable part of their Alpha experience: the chance to share thoughts and ideas on that week’s topic and discuss it as a small group. Nobody is forced to say anything, and nothing is out of bounds. These discussion groups are a great opportunity to hear from others and share your own thoughts in a friendly and supportive environment.
Alpha Facts
Is Alpha a Catholic program? No, but...
Alpha shares the kerygma (basic Gospel message) and contributes to parish renewal.
Alpha enables lay people to exercise their call to be missionary disciples.
Alpha is a proven form of community evangelization.
Alpha develops Catholic leaders.
Alpha works great in conjunction with programs of sacramental preparation.
Alpha brings people closer and helps them to find that power which unites. The alpha experience is not only a means through which one finds true life, but also a way to share the good news of the Living Christ.
Cardinal Marc Ouellet
What are Petersburg Parishioners saying about Alpha?
Madison Lammers
“I loved Alpha! It reminded me how important and encouraging it is having a community to support me in my walk with Christ. It was filled with great food, discussion and new friendships. I’m so thankful I put my fear aside and joined this past Spring session.”
Michele Weddle
“I truly enjoyed Alpha! Meeting others and sharing struggles and positive things in our lives, and knowing that you are being prayed for. You start out as strangers and have a new group of friends when you’re done. I enjoyed and looked forward to the videos each week, so much to learn and think about. It was a great experience that I would suggest to others to try.”
Elaine Metzger
“I came into Alpha searching for something to help me grow in my faith and I found that and more in Alpha. I made many new, caring, and compassionate friends as well as feeling the love of God and the comfort of the church family. I’m so thankful I took the leap and experienced Alpha.”
Abbey Starr
“Alpha helped keep fuel on my fire to learn more about God, the Bible and the Church. We engaged in honest conversation within our small table groups. We all need to continue to learn more about our Faith, and Alpha is great for that purpose.”
Luke Severt
“The Alpha program is one of the best programs I’ve been a part of. It is all about learning the fundamentals of faith in a laid back and judgement free zone. I would recommend everybody give it a shot.”
Connie Chinn
“When I signed up to attend Alpha, I was not sure what it could do for me. I had just lost my husband and knew I was lost. Alpha answered questions for me I did not even know I had. The volunteers involved help me understand what my path with my faith should be. I will always be grateful for the experience.”
Steve Webb
“I attended Alpha looking for a deeper connection with Jesus at a time that I needed a ‘pick me up.’ My faith has grown stronger and I have felt the presence of the Holy Spirit throughout this journey. Since attending Alpha, I pray/talk to Jesus on my way to work and throughout my day. I have a renewed sense of peace knowing that he is always there for me. Every session was a blessing as I looked forward in getting to know the people at my table and the other folks there better. I am so grateful that I was guided to this program. I would encourage anyone to experience the impact that Alpha will have on your spiritual life.”