Churches join together to promote the Alpha Course in Lake County, Ill.
NEW YORK, Aug. 3, 2007 — Is there more to life than this? This thought-provoking question forms the basis of Alpha USA's first major advertising initiative. The campaign forms a backdrop to an invitation from dozens of churches of all backgrounds to people in Lake County, IL to come to an Alpha course introductory dinner this fall. Beginning Friday, August 3, Alpha USA and a group of 27 churches in Lake County, IL will launch a combined advertising campaign consisting of:
— 15- and 60-second video clips in six movie theaters
— Bus ads on 55% of the Pace North Division bus fleet
— Posters at 62% of Metra stations
— Three major billboards, including one on I-294
— Ads on various radio stations, including WBBN News
— Car magnets, yard signs and posters
In addition to advertisements, the Initiative focuses on personal invitations to people in Lake County area to attend an Alpha introductory dinner at a church or course near them. This initiative is also a wonderful example of unity, as multiple churches pray, plan and work together to reach their neighborhoods with the gospel. The goal is to launch an unprecedented number of Alpha Courses in Lake County this September.
Chief Operating Office Gerard Long is excited about the impact of the Initiative. He states, "We are delighted with the response to the Initiative. Already, there has been a 170% increase in the number of Alpha churches as well as new courses starting at the Lake County Jail and the Great Lakes Naval Station. In addition, a young adult course is starting with over one hundred 20 to 30 year olds seeking to answer the question, 'Is there more to life than this?' We are so grateful for the church unity that has undergirded the Initiative and that was largely facilitated through an existing church group called Catalyst."
Alpha is designed primarily for non-churchgoers and is an opportunity for anyone to explore the Christian faith in a relaxed setting, over ten thought-provoking weekly sessions. Each week guests enjoy a meal, and a talk on subjects as diverse as "Who is Jesus?" "What Does the Holy Spirit Do?" and "How Can I Make the Most of the Rest of My Life?" It is low-key, friendly and fun – and is supported by all parts of the Christian church.
The Alpha course, which began in London more than 20 years ago, is a ten-week opportunity to explore the validity and relevance of the Christian faith centered around a meal, talk, small-group discussion and a retreat weekend. Alpha is open to anyone and provides a non-threatening environment where the difficult questions of life and how they relate to God can be discussed. Alpha is run in over 150 countries around the world and is translated into 72 languages.
For more information about the Alpha course, visit http://www.alphausa.org.
Contact:
Kimberly Reeve
Alpha USA
212-406-9061
212-406-7521 (fax)
Email
http://www.alphausa.org