Alpha Program answers tough questions WH church hosts program for fourth year

      Once a week for 10 weeks, a group gathers to exchange ideas and ask questions about Christianity. According to the Rev. Raymond Lorthioir, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, everyone is invited to attend. "This is a safe, informal setting where you can find out all you ever wanted to know about God, but were afraid to ask," said Lorthioir.
      The program has become a tool used by congregations around the world to tackle the difficult questions of Christianity. Nicknamed "Intro to Christianity 101," Alpha answers common questions such as Who is God?, Why does He allow suffering? and How does science fit with Christianity? "The Alpha course offers a secure and friendly environment in which to examine the fundamental teachings of the Christian faith," Lorthioir said.
      The 10-week session, beginning Jan. 14 at Trinity Church, will open with the Alpha Banquet in the Trinity's Ministry Center at 6:30 p.m. The course will continue the following week with a simple meal at 6:30 p.m. The program begins at 7:00 p.m., and those who cannot make it to dinner are still encouraged to come to the session.
      The program begins with a short presentation on a basic truth of Christianity. The group will then break into smaller groups to be joined by a group leader. At this point, participants will ask questions and reflect on the evening's presentation.
      According to group leader Leila Cooper, "Everyone is invited to attend. Usually the main focus is non-believers or people struggling with their faith." Newcomers to the church and those who want to brush up on the basics would also benefit from the sessions, according to Cooper.
      The Alpha program first came to West Hempstead about four years ago, and the program is offered three times each year, in the fall, winter and spring.
      Cooper, who found out about the program through a co-worker, went to six courses, and was so impressed by the sessions that she volunteered her time to the cause. She was invited to become a group leader, and says the program is a course of study during which participants "learn about the reality of Jesus being Lord and God and about the gifts he gives to us." The course delves into biblical history and teaches the Bible.
      Lorthioir said that he learned about the Alpha Program through friends at a church in Franklin Square. "That is how programs like this one spread -- one church tells another church," he said
      "In the past we have been fortunate to host a diverse group, with a common thread: Everyone had a desire to find out more about Christianity," Cooper said. "And while we explore questions of faith, we have a good time."
      According to the program's website, www.alphana.org, churches of various backgrounds, including Anglican, Baptist, Presbyterian, Roman Catholic and Methodist are using the Alpha Program. All the churches can use the same material since the program covers the basic principles of Christianity.
      There is no cost to attend the Alpha Program, and no pressure to participate in the discussions. "Learning involves observation as well as questioning," said Lorthioir.
      To speak with someone about the Alpha Program at Trinity Lutheran Church, call 489-5143.