Alpha

No matter who you are, nonbeliever, cradle Catholic, or anywhere in-between, you’ve got questions, and that’s what Alpha is all about. Alpha is for anyone who is curious.  Alpha is a good pathway for those who want to return to church. 

What is Alpha?

Alpha is a series of 11 sessions exploring the Christian faith.  Each session includes food, a short video that is designed to spark a thought-provoking conversation, and group discussion. There is no pressure, no follow up and no charge.   Since 1990, Alpha has been experienced by 29 million people of many Christian denominations from 169 countries in 112 languages. It is fully endorsed by the Catholic Church as a great starting place for many people interested in the faith.

The next session of Alpha will begin on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 9:30AM-11:30AM in the St. Patrick's Conference Room!

What to Expect

Food

Like most good things, Alpha involves food. Whether it’s a light meal or a full dinner, every Alpha starts with shared time together over food.  It’s a great way to get to know one-another and build fellowship.

Film

All of the 30-minute Alpha films are designed to spark good conversation while exploring the big issues of faith and unpacking the fundamentals of Christianity.  Every film addresses a particular question such as:  Is there more to life than this? Who is Jesus? and How can we have faith?

Discussion

For many people this is the most valuable part of their Alpha experience: the chance to share thoughts and ideas on that week’s topic and discuss it as a small group.  Nobody is forced to say anything, and nothing is out of bounds. These discussion groups are a great opportunity to hear from others and share your own thoughts in a friendly and supportive environment.

Questions/FAQs

Reach out to our ministry leader, Rich Tereba at anytime: Alpha@saint-max.org

  • We can always learn more about our faith and grow in our relationship with Christ, and Alpha gives us a chance to do this. 

    Don’t worry, there will be points brought out in the teaching and in the sharing, that will definitely challenge your faith and help you to know Jesus better. However, another reason is so that you’ll know what Alpha is all about! Then think of that neighbor, colleague, or friend who is searching for the meaning to life and you can easily invite them to come, knowing exactly what they will experience. Many times, folks are a lot more inclined to come to Alpha (free food!) than to a church event or Mass.

  • Most people come nervous!

    So, no worries.  You’ll make new friends.

  • An Alpha session lasts a bit over 2 hours. 

    You come for a meal, watch a short video, and share your thoughts on the video with your table mates (who you will meet at the first session). 

    During the discussion portion of the session, you can ask your table mates any questions you want. Your session host will ensure the discussion ends on time.

  • Alpha will last 11 weeks, on Saturday morning beginning January 11, with a hearty breakfast always included.

    In the middle of Alpha we will offer a retreat experience called the “Day Away.”  This winter it will be on February 29 in honor of Leap Year.  It's optional, but highly recommended, and lots of fun!

  • Just be sure to register with us (so we have a spot for you and enough food too).

  • If at any point, you think Alpha isn't for you, that's not a problem.

    Your faith journey is your own...we promise not to bug you. There's no pressure, no follow up and no charge, we promise!

  • Lots of people come to Alpha without knowing anybody else on the course.

    By the end of the course, most people become good friends. Alpha is a great way to meet new people, both from the parish and outside the parish!

  • Great news! There's no charge for Alpha.

    However, donations are always welcome to help provide food and support the many aspects of a Alpha retreat.  Many of our guests choose to make “pay-it-forward” donations so we can continue to offer Alpha to future guests without change.


  • No! 

    You may remain silent if you wish.

  • It doesn't matter if you missed the first week of Alpha - you can at least watch the video online.

    Anyone is able to register up until session 3 (week 3); after that we would encourage you to check back on this website and sign up for our next Alpha course, and start from session 1 (week 1).

    • Alpha is endorsed by the USCCB.  

    • Alpha develops Catholic leaders. 

    • Alpha works great in conjunction with programs of sacramental preparation. 

    • Alpha shares the kerygma (“basic Gospel message”) and contributes to parish renewal.

    • Alpha enables lay people to exercise their call to be missionary disciples.

    • Alpha is a proven form of community evangelization.

  • Go to alphausa.org/Catholic