We share stories because Alpha is about people—real people who are seeking a more fulfilling, engaging life. We can relate to something in every story—feelings, experiences, fears, challenges—and they inspire us, strengthen us, and sometimes we see a reflection of our own spiritual journey.
Encourage guests to share a positive life-changing experience leading up to an Alpha weekend, after an Alpha weekend, on Week 9 (Telling Others), at the last session of your Alpha, and even at a Sunday Service! Here are some helpful tips:
The Preparation
Ask specific people to share their testimony rather than inviting anyone to share.
Give them at least 1 week's notice to prepare.
Before the actual event, gather them together to do a practice run.
Go through the 3 interview questions and guidelines below.
Leaders can share their own testimony as an example (3 minutes!).
After guests do a first run through, highlight some of the best parts and share a couple of pointers that might be helpful.
Be encouraging to everyone and put them at ease.
The Interview Questions
Structure the testimony as an interview rather than allowing guests to present their full experience uninterrupted. This approach maintains focus and helps speakers stay clear and concise. The three interview questions are:
Before taking Alpha, tell us what life was like for you.
How or when did your relationship with Jesus change?
What difference has Jesus made in your life now?
General Guidelines for Guests
Keep it short. Aim for three minutes—people switch off after that.
Make it personal. Don’t preach or tell people what to do.
Keep Jesus as the focus. We want people to follow Jesus, not you.
Write it out in full if this will help you edit your story.
Allow the leader to hold the microphone.
Don't name specific denominations or churches. (eg. Be general: “I had a religious upbringing but it was not a good experience.”)
Avoid blaming or naming specific people. (eg. Say instead, "A family member was very abusive.")
Pray for the Guests
Here is a sample prayer that leaders can pray for their Alpha guests before they share their testimony:
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for this open door and opportunity to share about your grace and goodness. We ask that you would guide their hearts and give them the words to share your love and acceptance with others. Give them the courage to speak clearly and stand boldly. Give them wisdom to know which parts of their story to share and what not to share. May all that is said and done here bring glory and honour to you alone. In Jesus' name.
Amen.
Adapted from the Alpha Guest Guide, Appendix, page 74.