By: Edie Szyperski
As I reflect on my participation in Alpha over the past year – both as a guest and then as a Host - I am extremely grateful for the emphasis our parish has put on this program at this time. Before Alpha I didn’t feel a sense of community in my Christian faith. I went to weekly Mass, but nearly always left without having any conversation with others besides, “The Peace of the Lord be with you.”
What a paradigm shift has occurred after embracing this extraordinary experience called ALPHA!
Alpha offers the laity an opportunity to talk about the questions that we have about faith. We all have them and this is a perfect way to say what you want without criticism. The format of dinner and a movie followed by spirited discussion – is delightful!
I found that the ingredients of good food and good folks = good fellowship!
The breaking of bread together with the same people over 11 weeks produced a familial concern for people from different cultures, races, politics, and even religious differences. I think that Alpha is just what the Catholic Church needs to help us to ask the needed questions in this time – and to challenge us on to know the Lord – and better love each other.
COME HOLY SPIRIT!