I first experienced Alpha in an Anglican Church. My then parish priest, Fr John Gnanapiragasam, asked me to bring a handful of my friends and go check it out! It was in 2003, and my initial response was lukewarm.  The weekly session started with a meal, followed by a video segment, ending with sharing in small groups. After a few sessions, some of my companions had abandoned me, but I continued.

          We did the Holy Spirit Weekend in Port Dickson, where I experienced the presence of the Holy Spirit. It was subtle yet comforting. There was no exaggeration of any sorts. When the course ended after eleven weeks, I was sold and never looked back!

           So it is eighteen years and counting, and I am still passionate about Jesus, whom I have encountered.  I recall the first video where the speaker quoted the first bible verse where Jesus says, 'I am the bread of life.' 

           That bible verse gives me a thirst and puts me on a journey. It is an ongoing and intriguing journey without end. Jesus is the one who can quench the spiritual hunger that is in every human heart. I have come to love him. I will follow him anytime to a wedding, a picnic and a funeral. Who could resist the best wine? I will not miss the chance to go on a picnic and be fed. Who else can raise a person back to life? These simple illustrations from the Bible bring me to an encounter with him. This infected spirit in me makes me go and share the Good News.

            While my telling others continue, I need to fill my void. I don't undertake serious bible studies, but I am faithful to daily readings of the Word of God. The Word becomes alive in my undertakings, even as I pen my reflections for NEWBEC using the readings for the week.

            Alpha is a good starting point for a believer to become a disciple. The basic teachings give practical tips for daily living. A convicted believer would not stop after Alpha. He or she would want to know Jesus more intimately. And here's the thing.

            Knowing Jesus means to walk in his shoes. He gives me gifts to imitate him. By allowing the Holy Spirit to walk alongside helps me progress in my spiritual life. Due to the pandemic, we have resorted to running Alpha online. Many feel disconnected from Mother Church due to the prolonged lockdown situation. Alpha online has been proven to provide the link to bridge the gap, and link me to a community of believers.