St. Mel's Roman Catholic Church at 4140 Corona Ave, Norco, CA 92860 US - Alpha is Here!

What is Alpha
Alpha is a twelve week course exploring the validity and relevance of the Christian faith to your life today. It is a practical introduction to the basics of Christianity  presented in a welcoming and relaxed environment, centered around a light meal, a talk and small group discussion. Alpha reenergizes the faithful and has created a renewed sprit with our church by presenting what we may already know with fresh views and frank discussions.

'Evangelizing is in fact the grace and vocation to the proper Church, her deepest identity. She exists in order to evangelize.'
Pope Paul VI - Evangelii Nuntiandi

'I sense the moment has come to commit all of the Church's energies to a new evangelisation and mission to all nations. No believer in Christ, no institution of the Church can avoid this supreme duty: to proclaim Christ to all peoples.'
Pope John Paul II - Redemptoris Missio

Who is Alpha for
Basically everyone... Alpha was created to teach non-churchgoers and new Christians about Christianity. The Alpha program is a course for all persons regardless of religious background yet the course also serves as a refresher for both practicing Catholics and those who have lapsed in their faith. 

Alpha is a tried, proven and effective method of reaching out to the fallen-away and those who do not yet believe. I really believe that Alpha is one way of responding to what the Holy Spirit is asking of us today.’ - The Most Revd Adam Exner, OMI, Archbishop Emeritus of Vancouver

What happens at Alpha Supper There is a light meal together at the beginning of each session which gives people a chance to get to know each other. Talk Each topic investigates the Christian faith in a way that is interesting and often humorous. The topics explore Who Jesus was, why did he have to die for us, and what does this mean for our lives today? Additionally, we understand how we can avoid evil and become more loving toward our family, friends and community. Coffee & Small groups After each talk we divide into small groups to discuss the topic of the evening, ask questions and express opinions. Listen, learn, discuss and discover. And ask anything. Alpha is a place where no question is too simple or too hostile.

After Alpha ...
'The course is over, what's next?' Just as the name implies, Alpha is only the beginning:
Evangelization; many who have discovered a revitalized faith continue with Alpha as helpers or they might bring their friends, family even co-workers to another course.
Stewardship: Deuteronomy 16:17 tells us: "All shall give as they are able, according to the blessings which the Lord your God has given you." and 1 Peter 4:10 says to us: "Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms". Jesus wants us to serve, to be Christ like is to serve and so to be Catholic means to serve and help your community. 
The Alpha course is part of an ongoing process of catechesis, learning about our faith, bringing us closer to God.
Catechesis: Alpha is part of our religious education program for the teens enhancing their catechistical training and establishing a deeper meaning into its teachings.
R.C.I.A.:  stands for the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. It is for adults with no prior experience in the Catholic Church. If you feel the sprit is leading you toward the Roman Catholic community, contact the St Mel's parish office or office of religious education for more information.
Small Faith Sharing Communities are a bi-monthly gathering for discussion and exploration of the scriptures and gospel in a structured and meaningful way. Small Faith Communities provide a continued way to build and maintain relationships with each other and in the Lord.

What Catholic leaders are saying about Alpha ..