In Kington benefice a church group has found a deeper connection with scripture and with God, based around an Alpha course. Alpha, and other bible study groups around the diocese, are one way that we’re seeing people growing in confidence in the Word of God during this Year of Faith. If you’re not familiar with it, the Alpha course is one of the UK’s most popular introductions to Christianity, designed for small groups and used by many denominations. It has three core elements – food (to break the ice), a talk (focussed on a part of scripture or faith, often in the form of an Alpha video) and discussion in the group about the subject matter raised in the talk/video.
Trish MacCurrach, Local Worship Leader and Robert Maccurrach, Reader (PTO) in Kington set up the local Kington course last Autumn and have been delighted with the outcome. Says Trish, “God has been good. Robert and I have been very humbled. It hasn't always been easy, but we are excited for what might come next.”
One of the participants, Darcy, speaks compellingly about her experience of the course, “Thanks to the group, my Monday evenings were now spiritually bursting with a new flame and passion, asking what can a relationship with God do for me? This twelve week course answered just that. Jesus, the most well documented man in history, yet a mystery in my life… but not for long. Guided through by the accompanying handbook our discussions included the life of Jesus, prayer, how God can guide and heal us, how we can dive into God's word and what the church is all about. This course truly is made for all to access. Whether you have deep faith or none at all, the friendly and relaxed discussions allow for all opinions to be heard and questions to be answered. Midway through, the much-anticipated Holy Spirit Day really resonated with me. Who the Holy Spirit was, what he did and how I could carry that with me became clear. Slowly, my fear has been replaced with guidance, trust, and the most important message: God loves everyone! No matter your faith or background.”
A new course will run this Autumn, starting 24th September, in the Parish Hall, St Mary's Kington, 7.00-9.00pm every Tuesday. The last session will be on 10th December and there is an away-day on 9th November. Anyone interested in joining or finding out more can email Revd Paul Roberts.
ENDS