For follow-up discussion and general commentary on the topic. Comments are sorted chronologically.
Ann Gehin
I agree the Alpha course is only as good as the people who present. That being said, I was a die-hard atheist, Jesus-hating feminist until I attend Alpha. I went kicking and screaming, and drug my poor husband with me because I wasn't about to go into that den of Christians by myself. And then? They separated from my husband for the discussion time. I was beside myself in anger and fear. 90 minutes later? I came out, met my husband, we both looked at each other, and he said, I think I'd like to come back to the second session. I said, me, too.
There was not a dramatic conversion I can point to, but Alpha truly did open me to Jesus in a way nothing else had. I am FOREVER grateful for the person who made me go, and to God and His Son for Alpha.
And, as an FYI, my small group, that first night, and every night, was soooo loving to me. So kind. So accepting of all my arguments, my rants, my questions. THAT is Jesus!