People who are searching for answers about life and God are invited to attend a new program being offered this autumn at St Rose of Lima Roman Catholic Church.

Alpha will be offered on Wednesdays, October 3 through December 19, in the Knights of Columbus Hall, 46 Church Hill Road (east of the St Rose sanctuary).

Sessions will run from 7 to 9 pm. Those who are interested are invited to attend as often as they wish. It is not required that participants attend every session.

Each session will include a free meal, informational video, and insightful conversation in a no pressure environment.

Alpha, which means beginning or first step, explores the fundamental truths of the Christian faith. It touches the human heart and gradually leads people to an encounter with Jesus. It is evangelization founded in hospitality, sharing, and open conversation.

Each week examines a different question about the Christian faith through engaging videos and conversation. Alpha is for anyone, but it is particularly designed to reach people who would not describe themselves as Christian or regular churchgoers.

Bob Andrejczyk, St Rose parishioner and Alpha chairman, says Alpha is for people who may be searching for answers about faith but do not know where to begin.

“How many of us know friends, family, neighbors, co-workers who do not go to church or have any relationship with God?” Mr Andrejczyk said.

“Maybe they have given up their faith or maybe they’re not sure what they believe,” he continued. “We know they actually may be searching for answers but do not know where to start. This is where Alpha comes in.”

Mr Andrejczyk and his team are encouraging people to take a risk and invite someone in their lives who is searching or struggling for answers to explore the Alpha program.

All are welcome, Alpha is a welcoming, no pressure, relaxed environment where people are accepted for who they are and where they are at. It’s an opportunity to explore faith at your own pace with the support of others.

Alpha has run in 169 countries in both Catholic and Christian churches, universities, homes, workplaces, and prisons. More than 29 million people have participated in an Alpha program to date. It is endorsed by the US Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Currently, this is the only Alpha program running in the Diocese of Bridgeport. It is open to all people in Newtown and beyond.

There is no cost to participate but registration is required in order to plan for meals. For additional information or to register, e-mail alphastrosenewtown@gmail.com.