The Alpha course lasts for 11 weeks, with a retreat-type session in the middle. The talks each week cover the following topics, acting as a springboard for the small group discussions:
Session #1: Who Is Jesus? Session #2: Why Did Jesus Die? Session #3: How Can I Have Faith? Session #4: Why and How Do I Pray? Session #5: Why and How Should I Read the Bible? Session #6: How Does God Guide Us? Retreat Session #7: How Can I Resist Evil? Session #8: Why and How I Should Tell Others? Session #9: Does God Heal Today? Session #10: What About the Church?
A Typical Evening on the Alpha Course
Part 1: Each gathering begins with a meal. This is a time of relaxation and fun.
Part 2: Welcome and introduction.
Part 3: Then there is a talk that looks at a different aspect of the Christian faith each week.
Part 4: A time of small group discussion follows where everyone is welcome to contribute opinions and ask questions. People will usually stay in the same small group for the duration of the course so they will get to know one another, continue discussions and deepen friendships. The emphasis is upon exploration and discovery in a relaxed and nonjudgmental environment.