"To me ALPHA is the beginning of an exciting and faith-filled journey in drawing closer to Jesus and my church family.  ALPHA was the sharing a meal, watching a short video and gathering in small groups for discussion.  These discussion groups were the meeting of people with different ideas and convictions on the related topics dealing with life, faith and Jesus.  This was an informal and lighten environment where you are free to voice your views and opinions and are never considered wrong.  The weekly topics were always fascinating and engrossing on the various scripture passages and how they relate in our daily lives.
     
ALPHA has changed me and given me more confidence in sharing my Catholic faith with others.  I believe this is the Holy Spirit moving in me.  God placed me with special people in my small group, some I had known before ALPHA and some I didn’t, but now all of these people are more like family to me.   The Holy Spirit has plans for me through the ALPHA program and I am anxious to see where it will take me next."
                                                                                                                     - Maureen Calico
 

"I really didn't know what ALPHA was when it was first offered, but it had been a while since I had participated in any class offerings at St. Jude, so I signed up.  I was comfortable in my faith and thought this would be an interesting little course.  What I found out was ALPHA takes commitment, but it gives you so much more in return!  ALPHA gives you the opportunity to examine your faith, walk closer to God, and bring your thoughts, actions, and very being in touch with the Holy Spirit!  Sounds like a lot but in my personal experience with ALPHA and with our group, my faithfulness has evolved...my realization that Jesus and God are there waiting patiently for us to take the first step to grow in personal faith, renew our commitment to being a person of God and find joy in the journey.  The great meals, comradery, and fellowship add to the experience, but the journey of ALPHA is a hidden jewel, a pearl of great price.

To paraphrase Mandisa's song "Unfinished," God ain't done with you yet!  If you would like to find out more, sign up, join us for a little journey, who knows what God has in store for you!
                                                                                                                                          - Darlene Jardee