In 1999 that number grew to 11,430. The non-religious and Christians representing all the major denominations have taken the course. Alpha first appeared in the Fargo-Moorhead area last fall. What leads to the course s popularity and success is its non-threatening, comfortable approach. There s no effort to say you have to believe what you hear.
People make of it what they make of it.
But it gives you time to consider the basic issues of Christianity. No matter where Alpha is held, whether in a church or a home, the format is the same. Scheduled once a week for 10 weeks, each evening includes a meal, a 45-minute talk and small group discussions. A voluntary retreat weekend or day is held in the middle of the course. The talk can be presented live or groups can use a videotape.