Several months ago I was asked if I would like to go as a guest to the ALPHA supper at the Blendworth centre.
I had never heard of ALPHA and asked what it was about, it is a ten weekly course, for everyone, Christians wishing to discuss more about their faith, newcomers to the church, new Christians, couples preparing for marriage. Parents preparing for their child's baptism.
Being an Anglican Catholic - High Church! I had many doubts and misgivings about all this. Should I go? Well I admit at the time I was aware something was missing in my spiritual life and I needed friendship, fellowship and stimulation. So I said yes.
The evening started with a buffet meal, and we mingled, greeting friends from the churches of the Northern Cluster, Catherington, Rowlands Castle, Emsworth, Idsworth, Clanfield. We then had a time of prayer and worship followed by an introductory video, this was followed by coffee and tea, then we had a general discussion.I enjoyed the evening though I still felt very guilty going outside our Cluster.
I decided to do the course which is free except a donation is expected for the meal - but if you can't afford it - it does not matter, still come and share our gifts.
We met every Tuesday, had marvellous meals, followed by Prayer, Hymns, Bible Readings. Some people gave a testimony on what the course had done for them, I sat tight and thought no way will I give a testimony - I did on the 2nd course.
After the video we break up into small discussion groups, this was quite difficult to start with, after two weeks you could not stop us, but, we always finish at 10.pm. We have also Saturday as an away day.
I found the course made me think about my faith, Jesus and his life and crucifixion. Bible reading has come alive, I read with a different attitude of seeking, learning, understanding, comparing the different gospels also the old testament prophecies, how they came true. The bible has come alive for me. We cover many subjects, just to mention a few: What is the Christian Faith? What about the Bible? What is Prayer? My way of praying had changed, but spontaneous prayer was very difficult. What, me pray aloud - never! Now I can.
The whole course made me think, doubt, work through my spiritual life, to find and use the gifts which I have been given, and above all to start using them.
I have done the course twice, the second time as an assistant leader - I did not have to do much, say Grace at meals or a closing or an opening prayer and be a stand by in case the leader was absent and wash the dishes! At no time was there any pressure or high profile compulsive evangelism. You accept or reject, what is right for you.
Yes I found at times conflict with my Anglican Catholic views but in reality they both work together for me, it has given me a different outlook on my beliefs. An ALPHA supper is being held at St James Church Hall at 8.pm on 5th September. I can take two guests - the hall is small and tickets are limited - if you are interested contact me or telephone 256804.
The new ALPHA course commences on Tuesday 16th September at the Blendworth Centre. Time 7.pm. to 10.pm. There are day groups, if you wish to join one of these you would be welcome. If anyone is interested I can get application forms for you or contact Rev. Chris Tebbutt on 595018.
written by Jennefer Higginbottom
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