Faith
The heart of what St John's stands for is to make followers of Jesus Christ. A great way to learn more is to take part in one of our "Start" Christian basics courses.
In 2004 the church agreed that our purpose and values were:
- show their love for God in worship
- share their love for each other in fellowship
- spread the love of Jesus in word and action.
Jesus at the centre: We encourage a maturing
personal friendship with, and faith in, Jesus.
All Welcome: We seek to offer a welcome to all, valuing people as individuals, recognising their needs and aspirations.
Worship: We enjoy a variety of relevant worship styles, inspired by the Holy Spirit.
Involving everyone: We aim to enable everyone to recognise and use their spiritual gifts in ministry and mission.
Prayer: Personal and corporate prayer is at the heart of our lives and underpins our service to God.
Bible: The Bible is the Word of God and is therefore central to our teaching and life long learning.
Start
What is Start?
"Start" is a six session course designed to help people discover the basics of the Christian faith. It assumes no previous knowledge of the Christian faith. It's normally run in groups of 6-12 people. Each session lasts about 1½ hours, and involves watching a couple of short videos, followed by a time to talk, listen and ask questions.
What's the Content?
Each session begins with a short, relaxed introduction. There are 2 video clips introducing each session's topic, with a TV magazine feel to them. This should lead us into plenty of discussion. The aim is to enable people to ask the questions they have, and get some basic teaching about Christianity, but people are totally free to make their minds up on any topic and hold their own opinions. It covers questions such as:
* How do we know if there's a God?
* What is God like and can I get to know him?
* Why is there suffering in the world?
* Who was Jesus and why did he die on the cross?
* How do I respond?
We end each evening with a short look at a bible passage.
Want to Come on the Course?
If you are interested in finding out more, or coming on the course, please speak to Keith Dunnett (880373, vicarage@stjohnsclayton.org.uk).
What happens after Start?
There will be the opportunity to join the follow-on Alpha course that covers more basics of the faith.
We love running Alpha! Alpha is a 10 week practical introduction to the Christian faith.
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Alpha |
Alpha
is for:
Anyone
interested in finding out more about the Christian faith. People of all ages are
welcome.
Learning
and laughter. It is possible to learn about the Christian faith and have fun at
the same time.
People
meeting together. An opportunity to make new friends.
Helping
one another. The small groups give you a chance to discuss issues raised during
the talks.
Ask
anything. Alpha is a place where no question is regarded as too simple or
too hostile.
Images and text © Holy Trinity Brompton
2001
During each evening session we:
Start with a meal, follow this with a talk about an issue central to the Christian faith, and then get into small groups where you can discuss the talk and raise any questions that are on your mind
There is no charge for the course, although you might like to give a donation to cover the cost of the meal.
The course might be ideal for you if:
You are uncertain about the Christian faith and want to find out more
You are a new Christian and want to learn more about what you believe
You would like a refresher course
in the basics of the faith
You may find these other
websites helpful:
St. John's Church: Clayton Lane: Clayton: Bradford: BD14 6AX
