Our Explore courses are free courses designed to give you the time and space to consider the big questions of life and to explore the life of the person at the heart of the Christian faith – Jesus Christ.
Everyone is welcome, from the regular church attender to the convinced atheist. You do not need to know anything about Christianity, you can ask any question you like or you can just come along and listen, and you will not be asked to pray, sing or read aloud.
If you’ve recently completed one of our Explore Courses, we will be running Foundations in Term 2, 2024 from Tuesday 30th April at Kirribilli. We’ll look at foundational truths, how to read the bible and much more. For more information, you can email explore@thebridgechurch.org,au or REGISTER HERE.
Alpha
Alpha is a course exploring the big issues around faith and unpacking the basics of Christianity, addressing questions from Who is Jesus? and How can we have faith? to Why and how do I pray? Each session is based around three key things: enjoying a meal together, listening to an interesting talk, and engaging in good conversation.
Over 10 weeks, Alpha will give you the chance to share thoughts and ideas on the topic, and simply discuss it in a small group. There’s no obligation to say anything and there’s nothing you can’t say (seriously). It’s an opportunity to hear from others and contribute your own perspective in an honest, friendly and open environment.
We currently run Alpha twice a year, 7pm-9pm on Tuesdays, in Terms 2 and 4.
In Term 2 there is also a morning course (10am-12pm) at Macquarie Park.
Mandarin & Farsi translation options are available of enough demand.
Our next Alpha course for 2024 will launch TUESDAY 30th April.
SIGN UP HERE FOR KIRRIBILLI EVENING COURSE
SIGN UP HERE FOR THE MACQUARIE PARK EVENING COURSE
SIGN UP HERE FOR THE MACQUARIE PARK MORNING COURSE
Simultaneously, we’ll also be running Foundations from Tuesday 30th April at Kirribilli; 7-9pm.
Christianity Explored
Christianity Explored is a course which explores the life, teaching and ministry of the person at the heart of the Christian faith – Jesus Christ. Over 7 weeks you will read a biographical account of Jesus’ life – the gospel of Mark, and have the opportunity explore who Jesus is, what is his mission and what it means to follow him. Each session involves an exploration of a bible passage, a short talk, and group discussion.
We currently run Christianity Explored twice a year, 7pm-9pm on Tuesdays, in Terms 1 and 3.
Our next 7 week course will commence end July 2024.
Registrations will open a month or so beforehand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Explore for?
Explore is for anyone who wants to investigate Christianity informally with a group of other people. Whether you have previous experience of Church, Christians and the Bible, or none at all, this course is for you. Everyone is welcome – from the most sympathetic believer to the convinced atheist. We will respect your background, culture and beliefs. Tell us as little or as much about yourself as you feel comfortable.
What goes on?
The course is normally run in several groups of six to nine people, and after a light meal and briefly discussing the course material from the week before, there is a talk or DVD on the theme for that week. Then the groups discuss any questions that have arisen, and the evening ends at about 9pm. Of course, if you’d like, you’re welcome to stick around a bit longer to discuss any further issues you might have. And you can ask any question you want, at any time during the course.
How long does the course last?
The course runs for 7 weeks (CE) or 10 weeks (Alpha), including a ‘long lunch’, when you can explore other areas such as the Bible, the Holy Spirit, prayer and the church.
Can I pull out if I want to?
Of course you can.
How much does the course cost?
Nothing. For evening courses a meal is also provided at no charge.
Do I have to bring anything?
No, all course materials are provided.
Is it ‘churchy’?
We hope not. It’s not a church service. There’s no praying, singing, or clapping, and you won’t be asked to read aloud.
Am I going to get preached at?
Each evening includes a talk (or DVD) designed to explain an aspect of Christian belief and to stimulate discussion. Hopefully you’ll find it challenging and amusing. The group leaders will facilitate discussion and try to answer questions.
Do I have to speak in the group?
Not if you don’t want to. You are welcome to come and just sit and listen.
Why is the course run?
Christians count it a real privilege to explain the truth and relevance of the Christian message. We don’t have all the answers but believe that we have exciting news to share about Jesus Christ.
