What Is Alpha for Forces?
Alpha for Forces is Alpha adapted to suit service life. It is running in all three services of the British armed forces and within the armed forces of many countries around the world. The course can vary in length depending on time constraints and each session will contain the essential elements of Alpha:
1) Fellowship
2) Teaching
3) Small group discussions
Who's it for?
Alpha for Forces is primarily designed for servicemen of all ranks who aren't churchgoers. Servicemen attend for a variety of reasons, for example, some want to investigate whether God exists, whilst others may simply want to understand the basics of the Christian faith.
Who can run it?
Chaplains
The Alpha course is being run in the Forces by both single denomination and ecumenical chaplaincy teams in the UK and around the world. Chaplains have access to facilities on the base and play a vital role in liaising between military personnel, local church groups and Christian organisations who want to run a course. Chaplains can also encourage and train servicemen to give talks and lead the small-group discussions.
Serving Christians of any rank
Servicemen may run the course in their homes or at other locations on bases, or whilst on operations.
Local churches (in conjunction with the Chaplain)
Many local churches are positioned close to a military base, and members of the congregation may already be involved with speaking, leading or helping on the Alpha course. The offer of assistance from a local church is often enough to impel chaplains to run Alpha on the base. If you wish to be linked to the chaplaincy of a base near you please contact the Alpha for Forces office.