By Michael Hellawell, Our Lady of Victories.

The one thing which has been truly amazing in the last few years has been the growth of Alpha.

Alpha started in London in 1982.

There are now nearly 7,000 courses taking place in this country and almost double that around the world. In fact 126 prisons in England are running Alpha.

Alpha is a chance for anyone to explore whether Jesus has any relevance to their lives at this present moment.

It is friendly and fun, and everyone's opinion is valued.

After my own church, Our Lady of Victories, held its first Alpha course many people said it had changed their lives.

One said she could now talk about Jesus to anyone, whereas before she found it very difficult.

Others felt a sense of belonging to a faith community which they had never experienced before.

Another said they realised for the first time how much the different Christian churches had in common. One lady said it had completely changed her life. Jesus had become very real to her.

Courses are on the point of starting again - why not give it a try?

In brief...

A anyone interested in finding out more about the Christian faith is welcome on the course.

L learning and laughter. It is possible to learn about the Christian faith and have fun at the same time.

P pasta and pudding. Eating a meal together gives people an opportunity to get to know each other.

H helping one another. The small groups give you a chance to disucss issues raised in the talks.

A ask anything. Alpha is a place where no question is regarded as too simple or too hostile!

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