Alpha is a 10-week course that explores some of the basic truths of the Christian faith – “Who is Jesus?”, “Why Did Jesus Die?” and “Does God Still Heal Today?” It is Christ centred and scripturally based and has the backing of all the Christian denominations. The course is relaxing, non threatening, low key, friendly and fun. Participants meet weekly and listen to a talk lasting 40 or (if desired) 20 minutes. These talks are available on DVD or can be given by a live speaker. Participants then break into small groups to discuss the talk and questions arising from it. During the Course there is a day/week-end away, focusing on the Holy Spirit.

Update from the National Coordinator

In Ireland the number of Alpha Courses has grown from 12 in 2004 to some 120 last year.  There have been breakthroughs in Ireland in 3 key areas: Classic Alpha in the Catholic Archdiocese of Dublin, Youth Alpha aimed in Secondary/Community Schools and the Alpha Marriage Course.
The Archdiocese hosted 6 Alpha courses for Parish Council members last autumn, which has led to Alpha Courses in a number of Parishes.

It is also encouraging to see the growth of Alpha among the Protestant, Pentecostal and African Churches in Ireland.  We are now planning an Alpha Advertising Campaign in Dublin in Jan. 2011 aiming at getting 60 Parishes/Churches run Alpha and asking them to contribute €1,000 each to be spent on advertising through Cinema, billboards etc.  Please remember in prayer.

National Marriage Week, Dublin 2010

President McAleese browses books at an Alpha Ireland stand at the National Marriage week in Dublin, March 2010.

To read a review of this week and to hear the Presidents speach click here

If you would like to download our 2009 Alpha Newsletter please do so by clicking here

See our news section for more exiting events that Alpha Ireland has been involved in this year.