People come on Alpha because their friends and relatives invite them. Then they invite their friends and relatives. When people on Alpha they find themselves among the people who are the local church. Through Alpha it is the local parish community which is opening its doors in an unthreatening way. Alpha communicates the gospel and at the same time shows people that churchgoers are normal, friendly people.
Alpha is thoroughly parish based.
An Alpha evening starts with a meal. This is a simple affair and need only be bread and soup. However it is a vital part of the evening as it brings people together and breaks the ice. After the meal comes the talk. In most cases this can be done simply by sitting down to watch the video.