HOW TO START A NEW COURSE For practical advice and specific hints about running an Alpha course in your workplace you can ask an Alpha in the Workplace Adviser who has experience of running the course and is willing to support you. Their details can be found at: http://alpha.org/workplace/runningacourse/advisers
You can also follow seven simple steps to starting a course in your workplace:
http://alpha.org/workplace/runningacourse/startacourse/7easysteps
GUEST TESTIMONY: Linda from a workplace course in Aylesbury
“Over the last year or so I found myself questioning why things in the world were happening, social issues, natural disasters, people not having time for each other any more. Life must have more purpose I thought.
My brother, a Christian and a big influence in my life, had often talked to me about Alpha and suggested that I might try a course just to see if it held the answers I needed. I had seen adverts for Alpha at work and in May 2006 took the plunge so to speak and signed up. I saw it as an opportunity to reunite with God (having previously been a church goer many years ago) and to see where he fitted into my life now, if at all.
It was quite hard initially as often I was the only attendee along with the course leaders, however, watching the DVDs and reading ‘Alpha – Questions of Life’ often prompted questions and views. As the course progressed things started to change for me. I started to pray – for the first time in many years and I also started reading the bible (a birthday present from a Christian friend). I now have my quiet time each day and enjoy my time with God.
The course has really started a chain reaction with my doing a further Alpha course with a local church - a few more participants this time (about 20). In November 2006 I attended church for the first time in about 25 years and now attend regularly every Sunday. I have joined a cell group for my mid-week fellowship and have volunteered to help out in the church book/coffee shop every 6 weeks. The fellowship at the church is absolutely amazing and people are always there when you need a lift or encouragement when doubts set in.
I now feel I have purpose in my life and am always thanking God for leading me down this path and the many blessings he has given me. I am keen to learn more about his will and where he will take me next.
Go on an Alpha course – you never know what may happen – it has certainly changed my life for the better!”
Olivier Sachs
Alpha in the Workplace, UK