Optimizing the first 3 weeks of an Alpha course
Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at 10:43AM 
The first few weeks of Alpha introduce guests to Jesus, the foundation of our faith. It's also a time to set in place the foundation for best practices and practicalities which set the tone for the rest of your Alpha course. Here are some top tips gathered from Alpha Course Leaders over the years that can help refine your course:
1/ Watch your language: No, not swearing or cursing. Quite the opposite! Be careful not to use common Christian phrases (Christianese) that might seem bizarre to a non-churchgoing guest. Phrases such as "on fire for God", "fruit of the Spirit" or "washed in the blood" might cause an Alpha guest to lunge for the nearest exit. Be aware of your choice of words and keep it simple.
2/ Don't poison the guests: Because food is a regular part of Alpha, make sure your kitchen staff are aware of food safety regulations and hold the required food handler certificate. Visit your provincial health services website for more info (click here).
3/ Be intentional about team building: Get into the practice of meeting with your team for at least 15 minutes before and after the course - to pray, share an encouraging story or Scripture verse, and to allow your team to ask questions, share concerns and prayer requests. This is also an opportune time to emphasize one point each week from one of the team handouts. (more info)
4/ Keep meal conversation casual: Some Alpha courses are run over dinner, but also during breakfast or lunch too. Whatever the mealtime, avoid religious topics. This is a time to get to know people and their interests. Initiate conversation by recounting a humourous experience that recently occurred. "A funny thing happened to me on the way to the ..." still works! (more info)
5/ Reserve your Alpha weekend away venue: This is best done as soon as possible. Decide if a Friday night and all day Saturday works best for your group. Join with another local church and combine your Alpha groups for the weekend away. Sharing leadership, resources and financial costs benefits both churches! (more info)
6/ Be flexible arranging small groups: Explain to guests that groups might be shuffled around to accommodate everyone, but they will remain the same after Week 3 (for a 10-week Alpha course). Ask your Small Group Facilitators if any guests might be better suited to another group (ESOL, special needs, etc). If new guests come after Week 3, give them information about the next Alpha course in the Spring.
Quick Links: More best practices / Alpha Training in Canada