An Alpha Story
What's your name? Jack
Tell us a bit about yourself...
I'm from Kent and went to Military Boarding school in Dover before flying to New Zealand for a Gap Year. I came to Bristol to UWE to Study Human Biology and graduated this summer. I am now about to start a PhD in cardiovascular physiology.
Why did you do Alpha?
Throughout my first year of Uni I had been depressed due to a long term injury, I was
drinking and getting into fights. After a bit of a wakeup call involving a large fight in which I was kicked in the face, got concussion and nearly burnt my best friend’s house down, I realised I needed help and was at a crossroads. I met a Christian girl who suggested going to her Church. Later in 2009, after going to church a few times I decided I needed some questions answering about what Christianity actually was, if God existed, and why everyone kept banging on about Jesus.
What was it like?
It was a really friendly and warm environment. We sat down and had a meal before having a presentation on a particular topic, after which we broke into small groups and discussed it further. I really appreciated the way the leaders made me feel safe enough to ask difficult questions and there was no pressure to be 'converted'.
How has what you learnt/heard at Alpha impacted your life?
It helped to put a lot of things into perspective, and dismantled many of the stereotypes I had about Christians. I found out who Jesus was and what it meant for him to die on the Cross. I still had loads of questions, and still do, but I think I now have some of the basics fairly sorted. I now pray into my problems and it has instantly started to affect my life, I treat people differently and challenge my own attitudes and behaviour in a really positive way. Alpha started a process in which I gradually came to find God, and I can wholeheartedly say my life is better for it.
What does this mean for you today?
The relationship that I discovered I could have with God means everything to me, and helps me to deal with everyday issues in life. I’m not angry or aggressive, I have a lot more compassion towards other people and am generally happier. I understand a lot better what it means for Jesus to have died for me, to take away my sins and allow me to lead life to the
full.
NEXT ALPHA COURSE STARTS
Wednesday 12th October 2011
for nine weeks. 7.30pm each evening. No cost!
Please register here or download an Alpha invite here and return to the Church Office.