Alpha ...a practical introduction to the Christian faith.


Alpha is for:

  • Anyone interested in finding out more about the Christian faith. Adults of all ages are welcome.

  • Learning and laughter. It is possible to learn about the Christian faith and have fun at the same time.

  • People meeting together. An opportunity to get to know others and to make new friends.

  • Helping one another. The small groups give you a chance to discuss issues raised during the talks.

  • Asking anything. Alpha is a place where no question is seen as too simple or too hostile.

 

EVENING ALPHA or “Dinner and a Movie”:  We have two evening Alpha courses, one beginning in late September, and the other in early March (Introductory Meal on Mar. 6, 2012 and course begins Mar. 13, 2012).  We come together for 12 weeks,  sharing great meals, hearing stimulating talks by via DVD, and exchanging thoughts in open and frank discussion.  This is a beautiful place for people struggling with questions of faith to begin to find answers.  It is also a great place to meet new people.  Some find it perfect as an entry to the Church; and others as a means to revitalize faith.  We meet from 6:15 to 8:30 pm in the Sanctuary of West Side North (615 Wright Ave., Richland).  Marriage Alpha, a 7-week course for strengthening marriages, will also be offered beginning Mar. 6, 2012 .

 

WOMEN'S ALPHA:  This Alpha course is designed especially for women.  We meet Thursdays from 9:15-11:15 am at West Side South in the Upper Room (603 Wright Ave, Richland). Join us for fellowship and discussion - our next group begins January 26, 2012. Questions - contact Julie Coppock at 943.5565 or Tamara Brown at 627.5277.

 

PRISON ALPHA:  West Side has two prison ministries:

Camp Outlook in Connell is a military camp for juvenile offenders 21 and under.  They commit to learning life skills, working on their GED's and receiving physical training.  Several Alpha team members conduct an Alpha ministry there on Monday nights to provide a spiritual component.  They use shorter tapes.  There is no meal.  Much time is spent in discussion and prayer.

 

Coyote Ridge Correctional Center is a Medium Security prison with a large adult male poplulation in Connel, Washington.  A West Side team leads an Alpha ministry there on Wednesday nights.  We follow up with "Beta" teaching on Philippians and the Sermon on the Mount.  This is a two-hour time of teaching, discussion, and prayer that is greatly appreciated by the inmates.

 

TRI-CITY ALPHA:  Several Alpha leaders from across the Tri-cities meet regularly to pray, plan and coordinate activities benefiting the 12 churches running Alpha in our area.  We also advise churches interested in starting Alpha.  In the late Summer, we coordinate a Tri-city wide Alpha "Invitation" using buses, TV promotions, radio, cinema ads, and lawn signs.

 

ALPHA TEAM:  West Side has an enthusiastic team of volunteers which provides meals for our evening Alpha, prays, provides publicity, leads discussions, and follows up those who wish to continue to move forward in faith.  We attempt to provide a place for all who have enjoyed the course and wish to continue in some capacity.  It is among the most joyful ministries in the church.