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Explore the Meaning of Alpha at St. John Church in Darien

Explore the Meaning of Alpha at St. John Church in Darien

Good talk, good food, good
discussions



For
the sixth consecutive year, St. John
Church
in Darien is offering The Alpha Experience beginning with a “Taste
of Alpha” on Wednesday, September 18, 7 to 8:30 p.m., in the Pierre Room at St.
John Church, 1986 Boston Post Road, Darien CT. 
This one-night preview consists of what a typical
Alpha course evening is like. It will include a complimentary dinner and an
introductory video. The evening carries no obligation; however, anyone
interested will be able to sign up for the 10-week Alpha course at that time. The
10-week Alpha Experience begins Wednesday, September 25, through December 4,
6:30 -9 p.m., in the Pierre Room at St. John Church, 1986 Boston Post Road,
Darien CT. The course is also offered on Wednesday mornings 9:15 – 11:15 a.m.

in the Conservatory. Whether
you are Christian, or have never worshipped in a church before, married or
single, divorced or just looking for answers to life’s big questions, The Alpha Course is changing lives and communities all over the world by
giving people new hope enlivened faith, and a real joy in believing. There will be good food, video presentations and
group discussions in a friendly and open environment. "If
you have no belief or experience with Christianity, the Alpha course will show
you the basics. If you are faithful, but have a difficult time expressing to
other what you believe, Alpha will help you know what to say. If you consider
yourself a knowledgeable Christian, Alpha will help fill in some gaps in what
you know,” said Frank DeVito, St. John Alpha 2008. Simply
put, it helps rejuvenate your faith. Each week Alpha guests

socialize with a delicious meal, enjoy a video presentation and engage in

stimulating, small group discussion that offers a
chance to get to know others, contribute their opinion and ask questions.
People usually stay in the same small groups for the duration of the course so
they can get to know each other, continue discussions and deepen friendships.
The emphasis is upon exploration and discovery in a relaxed and informal
environment. The Alpha course is an effective tool for awakening faith in
people who are on the fringe of parish life, faithful Catholics and those
outside the faith. Worldwide,
people who have participated in The Alpha Experience have had such positive changes in their lives, in their relationships, and in their faith. Alpha is for anyone who thinks there may be more to life
than meets the eye. People attend from all backgrounds, religions, and
viewpoints. They come to investigate questions about the existence of God, the
purpose of life, the afterlife, the claims of Jesus and more. Some
people want to a more meaningful relationship with God that really changes
life. Others come for the close, long-lasting friendships that are built during
the Alpha course. “Here at St. John
Church, and also nternationally, people testify that Alpha has given them new
hope, an enlivened faith, and a real joy in believing. It is worth making the
effort to explore and participate in Alpha,” said
Monsignor Frank McGrath, pastor of St. John Church.  

Why Alpha? 

Fr.
Raniero Cantalamessa, preacher to the Papal Household said, “. . . we need a
new evangelization which, while being open to all the fullness of the truth and

the Christian life, will yet be simple and basic. This is the reason why I look

with interest and appreciation to the Alpha Course. It seems to me that it

answers precisely this need of ours.” Also
commenting on Alpha is Archbishop Octavio Ruiz, Secretary for the Pontifical
Council for Promoting the New Evangelization who said, "The Alpha course,
which I have had the opportunity to attend…is providential …. By means of a
very simple and humane tool based on fraternity and friend-ship, Christ is introduced
to the participants …."  "Let’s get the fire of love for God burning here at St.
John’s!” said Monsignor McGrath. There
is a onetime registration fee of $20 payable to St. John Church/ ALPHA- 1986
Boston Post Rd. Darien CT 06820 For more information, please contact Jean
Benitez at 655 5122 or send email to jbenitez0731@gmail.com.

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