CRANSTON — More than 40 new participants are expected when St. Paul Church of Edgewood embarks upon its fifth session of the internationally-renown Alpha religious discussion series.
The weekly programs are designed especially for people who do not consider themselves religious and have no real attachment to a faith community, but are also for church-goers who are searching for renewed spiritual direction and understanding. Each evening begins with a meal and socializing, then a half-hour video presentation followed by small group discussion.
Started in London in 2000, Alpha has since reached 29 million people, speaking 100 different languages, in 169 countries. It’s been conducted in churches, schools, workplaces, coffeehouses, homes, prisons and elsewhere.
St. Paul’s, a Roman Catholic parish, hosted its first Alpha series in 2015. Since then more than 60 people have completed one or more series. This fall, the 11-week session begins on Thursday, September 27, and will run until December 13 at St. Paul’s School, 1789 Broad St., Cranston. Doors open at 6:15 p.m., with meal service at 6:30 p.m., followed by a video and discussion. The evening concludes by 8:30 p.m. Families are welcomed, with child care provided after dinner.
After attending Alpha, several people have been drawn to the Catholic faith and have received the Sacraments of baptism, holy Communion and confirmation. The parish as a whole has also benefitted, explained Julie Bradley, director of Faith Formation. The Alpha sessions are hosted by St. Paul parishioners who’ve also gained valuable insight into their faith.
“Alpha not only enriches participants by exposing them to Christian teachings and relevant discussions, but has also helped parishioners deepen their relationships with Jesus. It has strengthened the entire St. Paul community which has had a ripple effect reaching out into the wider community,” Bradley said. Participants and parishioners have often bonded and created “good solid friendships that endure long after the Alpha session has ended.”
People are participating in the St. Paul community in ways they never anticipated before their Alpha experience, she added, including activities such as a Saturday morning walking group, a crafter’s club, and the Men of St. Joseph. The parish has reconstituted its Knights of Columbus chapter.
Bradley asks that participants planning to attend contact her ahead of time, though drop-ins are always welcome. She can be reached at 401-941-5576 or faithform@saintpaulcranston.org.
