Explore Alpha: Developing a Culture of Evangelism and Hospitality
Hosted by Jason Persaud, Senior Advisor, Alpha Canada
Read more
Alpha is more than a program or resource. It fosters a culture of evangelism, invitation, hospitality, and prayer that can radically transform the missional vision of a church through the work of the Holy Spirit. This breakout is designed for those exploring an evangelism and discipleship strategy for their church and how to get their congregation engaged in reaching their friends, family and neighbours with the hope of the gospel.
Research shows that “dinner table over media platform” is an effective strategy in reaching people and creating safe places for people to encounter Jesus. We will hear encouraging stories of transformation from leaders who have used Alpha in rural, urban and various church contexts. If you are interested in creating space for people to find connection, meaning and faith, we encourage you to attend and learn about what Alpha can look like in your context!
Reaching the Next Generation: Understanding Gen Alpha
Hosted by Tim Teakle, National Director of Church Experience, Alpha Canada
Read more
Sociology reports say that Gen Alpha is the emerging generation of those born between 2010-2024, who will be highly educated, digital natives with a global perspective. They are known as Upagers, meaning their adolescence begins earlier along with social, psychological, educational, and commercial sophistication. As they enter their teenage years, it is essential that we, the Church, are committed and excited to play a role in raising the next generation of evangelistic leaders—those who are passionate about reaching their friends and their generation with the hope of the gospel.
How do they understand and process the world around them? What do they care about? What’s on their minds?
Join us as we review early research on this generation. Learn and be inspired by leaders who are reaching Gen Alpha with the hope of the gospel in their local contexts.
Becoming a Parish on Mission: Embracing Invitation
Hosted by Ed Zadeiks, National Director of Alpha in a Catholic Context, Alpha Canada
Read more
Leaders across Canada want to see their churches come alive. The challenge is—especially in the Catholic context—congregations are shrinking, and people are leaving. It feels like the Church is stuck in decline.
But what if we could inspire and welcome a new generation? Have you ever imagined what your church could look like if it became fully alive? What would a church and congregation united in mission look like? How could it bring hope to the surrounding community?
Join Fr. James Mallon, Fr. Simon Lobo, and Tanya LeRue as they discuss becoming a church on mission, united in purpose to make Jesus known to all.
With the guidance of Divine Renovation Ministry and Alpha in a Catholic Context, you’ll have the opportunity to dream about what mission could look like in your setting and learn some practical steps to start renewing your church today.
Alpha in a Prison Context: Finding Hope in the Gospel
Hosted by Sean Wilkinson, National Director of Alpha in Prisons, Alpha Canada
Read more
Federal and provincial institutions are at capacity, and the need for support has never been greater. With prisons full and a recidivism rate that is over 50%, opportunities to share the hope of the gospel of Jesus Christ are plentiful.
During this breakout, you will hear about what is happening in our institutions today, and what it looks like to serve and run an Alpha in an institution close to you. Craig Murphy (Atlantic Regional Director of Chaplaincy for Bridges of Canada) will join us and share his experiences. We will also be hearing from a couple of site chaplains (John Paul Westin and Mark Dana) who serve in federal institutions in New Brunswick. Our chaplains will share stories of the impact Alpha is having in their institutions and how you can be a part of restoring hope, planting seeds, and walking alongside those who are carrying shame and regret.
Come ready to learn and be inspired, and if you like, ask questions about how you and your team can serve!
“…I was in prison and you came to visit me.” “The King will reply, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” – Matthew 25:36, 40
Power of Prayer Ministry on Alpha
Hosted by Kathy McIntosh, National Prayer Coordinator, Alpha Canada
Read more
Prayer is the foundation of all that we do on Alpha. We pray because Jesus prayed and it is the most important activity in a Christian’s life. Prayer involves the Trinity. When we invite the Holy Spirit to come, people can expect an encounter with God and lives to be transformed.
In our time together, you will hear from a panel of leaders who have experienced life-changing prayer. Learn more about the principles of prayer and prayer ministry, how to implement an effective prayer ministry team in your church and on Alpha, how to form and empower a prayer team, and the importance of prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit for us as individuals, and as church communities.