Alpha: A Place to Belong

By: June Li

Attending University or College can be an exciting time but for many, this transition can be stressful. This new step in life can mean an added level of responsibility causing anxiety and in some cases even loneliness and isolation. That is where the Alpha Program steps in.

In recent months, a new Alpha series rolled out specifically geared towards the millennial generation. So, what is Alpha? Alpha is a series of interactive sessions that explore the basics of Christianity but more importantly, these sessions give students a place to feel like they belong. “The goal of Alpha is to create a safe and accepting space for individuals to explore faith,” says Ryan Moffat, Ontario Regional Director of the Alpha Program. Moffat explained that there are three components of Alpha: Food, Talk and Discussion.

All Alpha sessions begin with either a hot meal or snack. Moffat describes this component as an important first step as it, “helps break down the walls and puts individuals in a place where they have a level of comfort”. Following the meal, students are invited to talk about the topic of the week and explore the big issues surrounding faith. Finally, students are encouraged to share their thoughts and discuss it with their peers.  “It’s hard to have conversations about faith, life, and God, but Alpha gives students a space where they can be themselves and ask any questions or share their opinions without being judged or having people telling them they’re wrong,” says Moffat.

Last September, an Alpha was launched at Algonquin College. Students were invited for a meal and video session followed by a group discussion. With great success and 25 new faces, Major Jim Mercer stated, “People come for the food but stay for the conversation. There were students from many different religious backgrounds – all in one room together. It was amazing!” When students were asked to share their experience with Alpha, one responded, “This is my third time coming to Alpha. I like coming here because people come together from different countries, backgrounds, religions and education to share their ideas”. Another responded saying, “As a student, when you’re doing homework you tend to get stressed. Alpha is where I feel the calmest and I can leave the rest of the world out”.

“Alpha offers a space where community can be built. Some people may struggle to share their faith, but with a space like this, they are able to communicate what they feel,” says Moffat. Alpha is more than a place to discuss faith, moreover, it is a place where individuals can create friendships, discuss their opinions in a safe place and feel like they belong.