PREPARE
When Alpha is running well, guests are more likely to complete the course and invite friends to come along. The best way to start preparations for your Alpha course is to attend the ‘Together for the Kingdom’ Training days held across the country in early 2009. Additional Training for leaders and helpers can also be done with the Leaders’ Training DVD.
Training Types
When Alpha is running well, guests are more likely to complete the course and invite friends to come along. Preparing for Alpha is crucial!
There are two types of training:
1. Leaders' training
To get the most out of Alpha, make sure group leaders and helpers are trained before every course. Even those who have led on Alpha before will find it valuable - both to refresh their memory and to meet others who are helping on that course. Why not get together with other churches and hold a joint Leaders' Training Event - this can be fun and an effective way to train and share experiences.
It covers three important areas: 'Leading Small Groups'; 'Pastoral Care'; and 'Ministry on Alpha'. These talks are available on DVD or can be given by a local speaker
2. Together for the Kingdom Training Days
Whether you are new to Alpha or have extensive experience of Alpha, don't forget to attend the Training Days.
Together for the Kingdom Training Days have three tracks - Alpha, Youth Alpha and The Marriage Course/The Marriage Preparation Course. Each track is deisgned to equip you to use the Alpha resources to run effective courses. They also provide an opportunity to experience the courses being modelled by experienced leaders. It also provides an opportunity for you and your team to hear about ways in which you might:
- Run more successful courses
- Attract more people to your courses
- Learn from the experience of others running the courses
- Hear suggestions about what happens after the courses.