The Alpha Course @ Emmanuel
Contact John Foster 01226 386491  jrfoster@emmanuelbarnsley.co.uk

The Alpha course is an opportunity for anyone to explore the Christian faith in a relaxed, non-threatening manner over ten, thought-provoking weekly sessions.

It's low key, friendly and fun. And it's supported by all the main Christian denominations. You're not on your own either. More than 2 million people worldwide have found it a worthwhile experience, completing the Alpha course in churches, homes, schools, universities and prisons.

So join us on a journey of discovery.

What is the Alpha Course?

It's mainly on THURSDAY evenings.

The Alpha Course consists of a series of talks addressing key issues relating to the Christian faith.

It starts at at 7:00pm with Supper; a light meal together at the beginning of each session which gives people a chance to get to know each other.

• Talk

• A speaker will give a short talk on the key topic for the day.
  On some weeks we'll also have live video recordings of the head of Alpha, Nikki Gumbel talking at his church in Brompton, London.

• After each talk we divide into small groups to discuss the topic of the evening, ask questions and express opinions.

• Coffee & Small groups

• Listen, learn, discuss and discover.
  And ask anything.
  Alpha is a place where no question is too simple or too hostile.

The evening finishes at 9:30pm (9:45pm at the latest)

Who is it for?

Alpha is for everyone, especially:

• Those wanting to investigate Christianity

• New Christians

• Newcomers to the church

• Those who want to brush up on the basics

How Much?

There is no charge for the Alpha course, although you may be asked to make a donation towards food and the cost of the weekend away.  Don't worry - if money is a problem for you then it's free.

WHERE?

At Emmanuel Methodist Church on Huddersfield Road, Barnsley.

What Next?

Contact:
Course leader: John Foster on 01226 386491, email jrfoster@emmanuelbarnsley.co.uk

Visit the Alpha course website alphacourse.org

The Programme

YOU ARE ABLE

If you have a disability need just let us know. The course has level access and accessible facilities generally; We would appreciate knowing any requirements so that we can meet these needs fully and enhance your enjoyment of Alpha.

NO PRESSURE

Don't worry if you can't make every week for the full 10 weeks. No one will call you if you stop coming. At Emmanuel we run 3 Alpha Course every year so if you miss a week you can hop onto the next course to catch what you missed.

Although it's a course there are no exams or tests. Course in the Alpha context simply means it's a series of evenings.

Expect to laugh quite a lot !

FOOD on Alpha

Some of the Alpha leaders at Emmanuel have food backgrounds. If you have a special dietary need then let us know. We'll make sure that there is something for you. On Alpha at Emmanuel we have already done: Lacto-Ovarian Vegetarian, Gluten free, Wheat free, Dairy free, Mushroom free, Slimming World weight reducing diet, Low fat.

Emmanuel is part of the Methodist Church which means that no alcoholic drinks are allowed on church premises. This is because we try to provide a safe and secure environment for everyone who comes into the church building. On the away day we may have a bar meal at a local pub. The abstention from alcohol is not something common to all Alpha courses. (nor even all Emmanuel Courses when held outside the church) The bible promotes only sensible drinking; Jesus Christ was always having parties and even miraculously provided wine at one wedding where they had run out.

Emmanuel is a fair trade church and promotes foods from sources that have good regard to the welfare of farmers and workers (including fair price) in the 3rd world.

At Emmanuel you serve yourself from the servery unless this is a problem - in which case it's silver service!!!