What is Alpha?
Alpha is a series of group conversations that freely explore the basics of the Christian
faith in an open, friendly environment. No matter your background or beliefs,
you’re invited. There’s food, a short video and then a chance to talk about what you
think, and ask questions in a place where all views are welcome.
AN OVERVIEW Alpha is a series that explores the basics of the Christian faith over 10 weeks, with an option of attending an Alpha Day on one Saturday during the course. Each session is hosted in a small group of people, just like you. You can just show up on the door, but it would be really helpful if you could sign up (we want to make sure we have enough food!). There’s no pressure or follow-up, you can come as little or as often as you like. Each week of the course follow a natural progression, but nobody will contact you if you don’t return. Each evening starts at 6.30pm and we will always finish at 9.00pm.
IS THERE ANYTHING TO PAY? No, Alpha is completely free. There is nothing to pay.
WHAT FOOD WILL YOU HAVE? At the beginning of each evening, we provide a meal of a main course (such as curry) and a simple dessert. We try to cater for all dietary requirements, and there is space to let us know this on the registration form.
THE ALPHA PRESENTATION Each week we have someone in to tell their story for 5 minutes. Then there is a 30 minute video based presentation on a range of the basic topics of the Christian faith, such as 'Is there more to life than this?', ‘Who is Jesus?’, and ‘What about the church?’.
SMALL GROUP DISCUSSIONS Probably the best part of Alpha are the discussions in small groups. This is an opportunity to hear from others and, if you want, to contribute your own perspective. The small group will be no more than 10-12 people, and will have an experienced host (who is not there to ‘correct’ or ‘preach’, just to guide the conversation and ask questions). There is no obligation to say anything and there’s nothing you can’t say (seriously!).
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I REGISTER? Once you have contacted us, you will receive a confirmation email. We will be in touch shortly before the course starts with an email with practical details and also a reminder text. During the course, we may contact you (via email or text) to remind you of upcoming sessions and to send you links to the videos for any sessions you may have missed. However, you will NOT be added to the church’s main mailing list and once the course has ended you will receive a final thank you email and your details will be deleted (unless you ask to transfer to our main church mailing list).
IS THERE ANY CHILDCARE AVAILABLE? Unfortunately, we are unable to provide childcare during our Alpha course. We can provide some basic toys for very small children, if you cannot source your own childcare. Alternatively we may be able to hold the Alpha Course in your own home if you are willing.
IS ALPHA SUITABLE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE/TEENAGERS? Alpha is amazing for young people, BUT our main Alpha course is for adults (over 18s). However, we also run Youth Alpha which is specifically designed and refocused for those between 11 and 18. Please contact: hellotheclayschurch@gmail.com if you want to find out more about our Youth Alpha Course.
WHAT'S THE ADDRESS? The Alpha Course takes place in our small hall at Clays, which is just below the main Church building. There will be someone to welcome you at the doors provide you with some refreshments. If you are driving in then there is plenty of parking in the evening. The Church address is: Old Pound Chapel, Near Nanpean, St Austell, Cornwall, UK PL26 7XS If you are using 'What Three Words' then try this:
WHAT IF I HAVE MORE QUESTIONS AFTERWARDS? We’d encourage you to give Alpha a try and we can hopefully answer any questions during the course. However, if you have any further questions you want to ask before joining, just email hellothe clayschurch@gmail.com and we’ll try our best to answer.