How to run Alpha > What is Alpha?
What is Alpha?
Alpha is a space to explore life, faith, and meaning in a relaxed, friendly environment.
It’s a place where people can ask honest questions and have real conversations without pressure or judgment.
It’s completely free. It’s run in churches, homes, cafés, workplaces, schools, prisons, and online, usually over eleven weeks with a day away, or eight weeks for Alpha Youth.
Each session features food, a talk, and discussion in small groups. It’s the perfect setting for connection and curiosity.
Everyone is welcome, but it’s primarily for those that don’t yet know Jesus. At its heart, Alpha is friends bringing friends.
Through hospitality, listening, and open conversation, Alpha helps people discover the good news of Jesus in a personal and authentic way.
Every part of Alpha, from the welcome to the discussions, is designed to help guests feel seen, heard, and loved as they explore the Christian faith.
Alpha isn’t about having all the answers.
It’s about asking the questions that matter most and discovering together that life with Jesus brings hope, purpose, and belonging.
This website helps you to think about, plan, and prepare to run Alpha. We hope it’s helpful! It includes top tips to consider, but if you need further help for your context, please don’t hesitate to contact us at uk@alpha.org
