Our Spring Alpha kicks off on Monday night. The Alpha team has started their own form of online community, and each week they are highlighting a member of their team. This week, they cast the spotlight on the infamous Jonathan Shrader. I just wanted to share with the small group community an excerpt from his interview because it really captures the excitement over Alpha.
If there are people in your groups with questions about faith, please encourage them to go to Alpha. (Helpful Hint, How to tell if someone needs to go to Alpha: Your group is doing an inductive study of Romans, and someone raises their hand and says, “What about other religions?” or “Is Jesus really the only way?”– that person should be guided towards Alpha!)
What part of Alpha are you most excited about?
Get ready for some cheese… I love connecting with people. Alpha provides us an opportunity to not only share our faith but to meet interesting people along the way. Without the friendships that started in Alpha I would be a lonely fellow, so how many guests will be in the same boat? The great thing is that God allows us to be there to build new relationships and fill His house a bit more.
What has been your favorite part of being on the Alpha Team?
Easily it is the laughter. I mean are we even Christians if we are having this much fun? NCC seems to have this thing about ministry being a great time, something I always want to experience, and God is all about a party.
What made you want to join the Alpha Team?
I really didn’t have anything better to do. That sounds rough, but think about. How could I spend one night a week any better than we are? We are the first impression of Christ for a lot of the people that will walk through those doors - that is a huge responsibility and honor. I know I am supposed to be serving and right now Alpha is the place. Plus the team is cool and I wanted to ensure I got to hang out with you all - no easier way than signing up to lead!
What is your prayer for Alpha this semester?
I am horrible at keeping a secret so most of you know my prayer for Alpha already… I am praying that our time in Alpha this semester becomes the catalyst moment for something much bigger than we can imagine. DC has no idea. I have no idea. But God will use our time to start something new, something HUGE!
Oh my gosh. I am just overwhelmed by this team testimony. Yeah Jonathan for your amazing love and attitude!! Yeah Alpha at NCC. Love and lots of misses. Heidi
heidiscanlon
February 16th, 2006