When Blacknall launched Alpha on Jan. 20, our staff and volunteers weren’t sure what to expect. The 11-week series is built on the hope that the Holy Spirit moves among people as they walk through core aspects of the Christian faith from across the spectrum of belief. By the time Alpha wrapped on March 31, it was clear that work left a profound change for many.

“Every week, it felt a little like a celebration because it was such a joyful and delightful time,” said Director of Children's Ministry Brandon Miller, who co-led Alpha with Associate Pastor David Dunderdale and affiliate member Pete Newburn. “We saw a mix of lightheartedness and laughter with depth of discernment on big topics of faith.”

People who joined had a wide range of faith backgrounds, from atheists to unchurched Christians who felt curious about how to reconnect with God. The impact was far-reaching. Here are a few highlights from the group.

After three months together, 22% of participants said Alpha inspired them to explore Christianity more deeply — whether they were searching for a connection to God, felt more spiritual, or decided to devote themselves to Him. “I had been exploring since last April, and so many people helped and inspired me through conversations,” one guest shared. “I decided to get baptized after a Bible study with my pastor.”

In recent weeks, people who joined Alpha have attended Sunday services at Blacknall, including some who had never been to church before. Each week offered the chance for open conversation, and some participants experienced the love at the heart of the gospel for the first time through Christlike hospitality and care. “What I liked most was that my group offered to pray for each other,” one participant said. “I learned the power of prayer. It got me interested in reading the Bible and learning more about Jesus.”

Nearly all guests who joined Alpha came because of a personal invitation from a friend, relative or colleague. “It was way bigger than we ever expected,” Brandon said. Because Alpha began with an ask from someone they knew, the transition into the series felt more natural and welcoming. “It reminded me of the importance of community with other believers,” a guest shared.

Best of all, this was just the beginning. Many participants said they would invite someone to join next time — an extension of the welcoming environment created each week. And they won’t have to wait long. We plan to launch another series later this year.

Read more from this winter: Questions Welcome — Alpha Series Offers Space for Curiosity

Watch a recap from Director of Children's Ministry Brandon Miller and member Jessica Steinbrenner: