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What is "Start?"

Six small-group sessions to talk and learn about the basics of the Christian faith. We cover issues like: The Existence of God, what is God like? What is Sin? Who is Jesus?

What actually happens during the sessions?

A topic is introduced over a cuppa, there is some chat about it, we watch an entertaining video clip or two and play a few easy games designed to get you thinking. The beauty of it is that it goes as deep as the people on the course want it to go. It is quite down-to-earth and not academic. Experience has shown us that flexibility during each session is key to getting people's questions answered.

Is it the same as the Alpha Course?

No, but it runs along similar lines. It was written by the Rev Robin Gamble who, until a couple of years ago, was evangelism officer in Bradford. So you might say it's Yorkshire's answer to the Alpha course! One of the benefits is that Alpha is 12 sessions and this is just six, so there's less of a drain on people's evenings..and easier to say "yes" to!

Is it for believers or non-believers?

Both. It is for anyone who wants to find out the basics of the faith whether they are searching for answers to the big questions in life or feeling like they would benefit from a refresher. We have had complete beginners on it, newly weds, people who have just been confirmed and want to really get to grips with the facts of the faith and life-long church-goers who felt they still had gaps and doubts.

What have other people said about Start!

"I wanted to find out about God and this helped me"; "It was lovely to meet with other people and talk about our faith, it was good fun and I got a lot out of it."

Who are the leaders?

Me, Marianne Clough, 33, mum-of-two and journalist,
and more recently, social care manager and father of two Andrew Willows.

When is the next one?

That's up to you! If you know someone who is questioning or on the edge of the church and you want to offer them something that is in a home setting rather than going straight into church, this may well be it. If you are not sure if it's for them, have a chat to Andrew or me, borrow the video or we can introduce you to some of our congregation who have been on it to give you a better picture. We happy to do evening or daytime sessions.

The success of each course depends on it being a "whole church" activity, which is why we value your prayers so much.

Marianne: 07939 295339 or 01274 608388