Alpha Course in New Zealand---Doorway into the Kingdom of God

Alpha has been a tremendous blessing in the life of most New Zealand churches. So far, more than 100,000 New Zealanders have participated in an Alpha course and for many it has been a doorway into the Kingdom of God.

Recently, a new and exciting design for the signs, posters, car stickers and other promotional material has been released and distributed to those churches who have signed up for the 2004 Alpha invitation.

The Alpha course is a 15-session practical introduction to the Christian faith. It is designed primarily for non-churchgoers and new Christians. It was established at Holy Trinity Brompton in London twenty years ago.

The syllabus for the course is contained in the book 'Questions of Life'. Some courses are held during the day, however most are evening courses. At the evening events, there is a light meal followed by a talk on a subject central to the Christian faith. Then participants break into groups of around 10-12 people to discuss the talk in an environment where each person should feel free to ask or express whatever they wish. A team of around three or four "leaders" or "helpers" from the host church are attached to each group.

This year intensive TV advertising and newspaper's advertisements are planned to encourage people to think about the meaning of life, and accept the dinner invitation. The national television advertising is made possible through generous donations of Alpha Partners.