Developed at Holy Trinity Brompton over the last twenty years, Alpha is a ten week practical introduction to the Christian faith. It's aimed especially at people who don't go to church, though it's also great for those who have a well developed faith.

The syllabus for the course is contained in the book Questions of Life by Rev Nicky Gumbel. On a typical Alpha evening at Reigate Methodist Church, there is soup and a roll followed by a talk on a subject central to the Christian faith. Then participants discuss the talk over dessert, in an environment where each person is free to ask or express whatever they wish.

The evening begins at 8.00pm and ends at 9.30pm.  There is also an extended evening or Sunday afternoon during which the subject of the Holy Spirit is addressed.

The Alpha Course begins on 21^st September in the Schoolroom, which is accessed from the path between the Church and Marks and Spencers.  To sign up or find out more, phone 01737 242167.

Following work on the east and west walls last year, cracks in the south wall are now being repaired. This is necessary to ensure that the existing building is stable before construction of the new Community Centre behind the church.

Cracks in the altar arch and corners of the south wall have been visible for some years. Investigation showed that water running under the church had washed away some of the foundations, causing settling. It is known that this end of the church was partially rebuilt following WWII bomb damage, and that section may in fact have better foundations than the other walls, resulting in a difference of movement and hence cracking.

The foundations will be strengthened as necessary and the brickwork rejoined at the cracks, following which it will be replastered.  Fortunately most of the cost is being covered by insurance.

Details of the special lunchtime services during Lent are in the calendar. Each Tuesday service will explore in detail a passage of scripture. The church will be open from 12 noon for a time of quiet reflection before the service begins, and afterwards tea/biscuits will be available from 1pm.

Church members are encouraged to read the discussion paper Mapping a way forward - regrouping for mission produced by Rev John Hellyer (chairman of the Methodist Church South-east district). The paper considers recommendations from Methodist Conference about the structure and resourcing of the Church, in particular the way in which Circuits of local churches are organized. Comments on the issues raised can be fed back through the stewards.