Alpha, the internationally recognised course designed for new and budding Christians exploring faith, has reported its most successful year since it was launched in 1977.
Last year, more than two million people participated in Alpha courses around the world.
That’s the highest annual uptake in the movement’s history.
Premier Christian News reports more than 81,000 Alpha courses were run across 146 countries in 2024.
They were supported by over 43,000 churches, organisations and individuals.
FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
Since its launch at London’s Holy Trinity Brompton church nearly fifty years ago, and its subsequent adaptation in 1990 by Reverend Nicky Gumbel for those not connected to church, Alpha has maintained its simple small group format, while expanding its reach worldwide.
The format of the course revolves around shared meals and open conversation about potential barriers to believing in Jesus.
The program is free for churches and small groups to run.
A key development took place last November when the Alpha Youth Series was launched.
ALPHA’S HUGE APPEAL TO YOUNGER GENERATIONS
In just a few months, over 250,000 young people in 53 countries participated in the new series.
Notably, more than one third of all Alpha participants last year were under the age of 25, reflecting its growing appeal among younger generations.
Premier reports Alpha’s record statistics come in the context of the Quiet Revival which has seen an uptick in Gen Z adults attending church in the UK.
The continent with the largest growth was Africa which saw the total number of Alpha attendees increase by 47%.
“HOW CAN I FULFIL THAT YEARNING IN MY SOUL?”
Miles Toulmin, CEO of Alpha International, told Premier: “We contextualise our video resources, so people can hear the Gospel in their heart language, and in a way that’s relevant for them.”
He said that young people in particular are turning to the course for a “spiritual experience and encounter”.
“They’re bringing questions about loneliness and mental health challenges. They’re asking: ‘Is there more to life than just the tangible, and how can I fulfil that yearning in my soul?’”
