Alpha in Prison

 

 

 

Text Box: Alpha for Prisons was launched in 1995 in response to demand from inmates. Since then enthusiasm for Alpha for Prisons has grown.

 

 

 

Text Box: It is now registered in 80% of the prisons in the UK as well as running in the prisons of over 60 countries on all the continents around the world. The course is run successfully in all types of prisons and correctional institutions for both men and women and is also used in young offenders and juvenile institutions

 

 

 


 

Text Box: The Alpha course is a 15-session practical introduction to the Christian faith designed primarily for non-churchgoers and new Christians. The course is a low key and non-threatening series of sessions where men and women from any background or belief system can ask questions about the meaning of life. The course is normally run over a period of ten weeks, although it can be presented over a shorter period of time depending on a prison’s regime. At each session there is a chance for fellowship over food and/or drinks followed by a talk on a subject central to the Christian faith. After the talk, participants divide into pre-arranged groups in which they remain for the duration of the course.  These groups provide participants with the opportunity to discuss the talk in an environment where each person is free to ask or say whatever they wish. Each group has a ‘leader’ and two or three ‘helpers’ who may be ‘graduates’ from a previous course or prison staff or volunteers.

 

 

 

Text Box: Alpha in Kilmarnock 2007

 

 

   

Text Box: Glenn- I thought the alpha course was good because it gave me an insight into the way some people understand God and the church etc. I found it very interesting and it was worth going.

 Some of our team have just finished the course

and here are some comments of the lads in Kilmarnock who took part

 

 


 

 

Text Box: Dean – I found it educational. I learned more about Christianity etc. It gave me some knowledge; something I would have known if hadn’t gone to it. I also enjoyed meeting the visitors and having time out of jail routine.

Text Box: Harpo, Danny, James & Graeme – the Alpha group gave you an insight into how Christianity works and also if you want to change your way in life then give it a go. It gets you away from the jail routine and the chance to talk with people who are there to help you, which probably a change from your normal life

 

 

Text Box: Kenny- When I first went to the Alpha course I was looking for some time off work and some tea and biscuits. After having gone and listened to what was being said I was pleasantly surprised. There was no one trying to force feed God to us but letting us make our own minds up. Also my views on the whole Christianity thing changed. I see it more of a way of life and an honest way to look ahead. Long gone are the thoughts of people trying to sell Jesus to people who don’t want it. The Alpha course really opened my eyes up and let me see that it’s a better way of life and something positive. Now I look forward to my weekly session.