Alpha

 


Is there more to life?

Alpha gives everyone the opportunity to explore the meaning of life in a relaxed, friendly setting. The Alpha course usually meets once a week for 11 weeks. Sessions begin with a meal, followed by a short talk, and time to discuss the topic.

During the discussion, everyone is welcome to contribute their opinions and no question is considered hostile or too simple.  Questions might include–Is there a God? Why am I here? Where did I come from? Where am I going?

Alpha is for everyone –no question is out of bounds and you are free to discuss as much or as little as you wish.  We don’t assume any background knowledge or belief in Christianity and everyone is welcome.

An Invitation To You


Max Runkle | Overwhelmed with Love

Hear from Max who didn’t know who Jesus was and didn’t believe in Him. On how he went from one sad day, he was lifting at the YMCA and saying yes to a simple invitation…. turned into encountering the life-shaping good news of Jesus that speaks into the deep questions around identity, belonging, and purpose. Jesus gave Max new life; just like Max, see what Jesus can do in your life, come to Alpha @ OLM. OR WHO WILL YOU INVITE TO ALPHA THIS SEASON? Never underestimate what a massive impact a simple invitation can achieve.


Gerri Frey | Feeling behind in her spiritual life

From feeling, she is way behind in her spiritual life and at her age, there was no way to catch up; listen to Gerri’s story on how Alpha had changed her life.  The same opportunity exists for you, sign up now.


Joe Glasgow | All because I said yes to my good friend Bob

How does one go from leaving God behind after college, never stepping foot inside a church, never thinking about Jesus or God or the Holy Spirit to a life-changing encounter with Jesus?


Tommy Lachat | Surprising Community in Alpha

The pandemic life became challenging for any type of communal gathering. It was certainly something Tommy didn’t realize he missed, let alone needed until it was completely taken away because of COVID. Listen to how his small virtual group in Alpha ended up being a gift for him.


Matt Kubanda Alpha Story | It Doesn’t Matter How You Start

Raised Catholic, and then leaving the faith during college, Matt subscribed to a mantra of complete self-reliance. Listen as to how two invitations to Alpha have led Matt to see an old but true adage from his youth, of God, essentially saying the very same thing to him at Alpha.

What to expect


A typical Alpha

Alpha runs in cafés, churches, universities, homes, bars — you name it. No two Alphas look the same, but they generally have three key things in common: food, a talk, and good conversation.

First up, there’s


Food (for In-Person Alpha only)

Whether it’s a group of friends gathered around a kitchen table or a quick catch-up over coffee and cake, food has a way of bringing people together. It’s no different at Alpha. We start with food, because it’s a great way to encourage community and get to know each other.

Then a


Talk

The talks are designed to engage and inspire conversation. Generally, 25 minutes long, they are given as a live talk or played as a video. Talks explore the big issues around faith and unpack the basics of Christianity, addressing questions such as Who is Jesus? and How can we have faith? 

WATCH A TALK

Followed by


Discussion

Probably the most important part of any Alpha–the chance to share thoughts and ideas on the topic and simply discuss it in a small group. There’s no obligation to say anything. And there’s nothing you can’t say. It’s an opportunity to hear from others and contribute your own perspective in an honest, friendly, and open environment.

Is Alpha


OK for Catholics

If you have any questions about Alpha and how it relates to Catholics, check out this video from Fr James Mallon.

WATCH VIDEO

Additionally, check out endorsements from Catholic Clergy such as from the Vatican like Archbishop Rino Fisichella, President of the Pontifical Council for Promoting the New Evangelization.

FR MARK’S CHRISTMAS HOMILY (Alpha)

Hear from Fr. John Riccardo on how fruitful Alpha was during his time when he was the pastor at his parish in Michigan. “I’ve never seen anything be as fruitful as Alpha is in leading somebody into an encounter with the person of Jesus and then being able to build on that friendship that begins to develop.”

How Can I


Invite Others?

We want to make it as easy as possible to invite people to try Alpha,  so we’ve prepared a page with tips and videos that will help you prepare to invite your friends, family, or co-workers to Alpha.

Click on the following  “Top Tips for Inviting Others to Alpha!

FAQs

Do I have to talk and share my thoughts?

No. You may remain silent the entire time if you wish.

How long is an Alpha session?

In-person Alpha Sessions last 2 hours. Virtual Alpha Sessions last 1.5 hours.  They go by quickly. We start on time and always end on time.

How much does Alpha cost?

There is no cost, Alpha is free!

I am coming and will not know anybody else. Is that normal?

Yes. Most people come to Alpha without knowing anybody else in the course. By the end of the course, most people become good friends. Alpha is a great way to meet new people.

Can I just “come and see” for the first week?

Yes. Just register to let us know you’re coming (so we have enough food prepared for you).

What if I go for a week or two and don’t want to continue?

If you don’t want to continue after a week or two, no worries. We will not call you or bother you if you don’t come back.

Is childcare available?

Yes, we offer free childcare.

I have more questions. Who do I contact?

Questions can be directed to Zara @ 331-707-5381 or EMAIL US

Would you like to invite a friend?  

Share this graphic with them along with this website.


How Can I Invite Others?

We want to make it as easy as possible to invite people to try Alpha,  so we’ve prepared a page with tips and videos that will help you prepare to invite your friends, family, or co-workers to Alpha. Click on the following  “Top Tips for Inviting Others to Alpha!


 


Curious about what the talks are?

The Alpha course walks you through 11 talks in 11 weeks. Please see the following topics for each week.