When some members spoke of the urgency of providing their Small Faith Sharing Groups/Prayer Groups/Bible Groups with reflection material, Bishop Orsmond referred once again to the Alpha Programme which is a well structured, Bible based course, touching on the main aspects of our Christian faith, covering a period of ten weeks. Although sometimes described as designed for non-churchgoers and new Christians," many practicing Catholics in our diocese and elsewhere have experienced Alpha as an effective means for deepening their own faith and revitalizing the commitment of the group or congregation they belong to. The resource material includes small booklets, tapes and videos and encourages reflection and sharing in groups. In his opening address given at the Alpha Conference at the Cathedral Place Bishop Orsmond said,

"Alpha appeals because it revives in all of us Christians

• the need to make Christ known;
• the need to bring him to wherever we are;
• the need to bring the whole world under his sway."

Please complete the online Alpha query form to learn more about Alpha and /or explore ways to assist your Parish Priest and PPC in deciding whether the time has come for your parish to introduce Alpha .