Begin Planning

It’s not hard to begin an Alpha course at your church, but it’s important to have all the ingredients. Alpha is a recipe – too much of this or too little of that and it could fall flat. But don’t worry, follow God’s leading and stick to the recipe and it will rise. Keep in mind that you have us here at Alpha USA to help you - as well as a network of Advisors and churches all over the U.S.

If you think you want to start Alpha in your church, here’s what we recommend you do:

1. Talk to God

It’s imperative to have a strong prayer base as you develop your Alpha course. Prayer is all about admitting we can't do it. Only God can change lives. Running Alpha perfectly won't change lives, but as we depend on God, His gentle love and transforming power begins to change hearts. We’ll pray for you, too:

Submit a prayer request

2. Talk to us

If you have questions about the Alpha course or just need general guidance while you get your course started, we can help. Call us and we can connect you with an Alpha Advisor or church in your area that knows Alpha. They can not only help you get started, but perhaps work with you to reach out to the community, as well. In fact, many churches are joining something called The Alpha Invitation: a community-wide effort to invite more people to the Alpha course.

Help me find an Alpha Advisor
I would like to speak to someone.
Learn more about The Alpha Invitation
 

3. Get your church leader on board

If you are not the leader of your church and you want to start Alpha, we recommend you get your senior clergy on board. Alpha can be entirely lay driven, but having the pastor’s support is what will make your course successful in the long run. Here are some resources you can share with him or her:
 

Watch the first talk given on Alpha, "Is There More to Life Than This?"

Read other endorsements by church leaders

4. Attend an Alpha event

The best way to equip yourself to start Alpha is to attend a national conference or regional event. At these events, you can learn more, network with other churches, get trained and be inspired.
 

Find a Taste of Alpha event, or other regional event near you 

Watch Nicky Gumbel talk about the Principles behind Alpha

5. Plan your first course