ALPHA: The Local Church’s Tool for Evangelism
If you are like most, the word “evangelism” is a scary word. Many Christians don’t feel comfortable sharing their faith with others. We Americans have accepted the ethos of the land and don’t venture to discuss religion with others. We accept that religion is a “private matter.”
Did you know only 21 out of 100 Christians actually invite anyone to church? Did you know 98% of us who are inviting others invite those who already belong to another church? It’s astounding that we reach any new persons for Christ. Did you know that 8 out of 10 people who don’t go to church are open to being asked? Did you know that unchurched people wonder why their Christian neighbors don’t invite them to church? As Jesus once said, “the fields are ripe and ready for harvest.”
The ALPHA course is not just another Bible Study. Alpha is not simply an introduction to Christianity class for the church. While it is a good faith booster for church members, ALPHA is primarily a tool for doing evangelism. ALPHA is a tool for the congregation to embrace as a means of sharing the good news about Jesus Christ with their friends, relatives, associates and neighbors. The ALPHA course is offered by the church three times a year: fall, winter and spring. It gives you the opportunity to pray for your neighbors and friends asking God to open their hearts to your invitation to come to dinner and learn about the ALPHA course.
ALPHA could not be simpler or easier for you to engage others. All you need to do is invite them to dinner. Simply say, “There’s this wonderful thing at our church called ALPHA. It is a safe place to explore your questions about life. There’s a celebration dinner coming up where you will enjoy a wonderful meal free of charge and experience what the course is like. You will even hear from people who have recently experienced ALPHA. If you like what you see you can come back the next week, if not you at least had a great meal with a friend.” Then give them one of the invitations available at church. Chances are they will ask you more questions and you can simply refer them to www.alpha.org where they can learn more about ALPHA. It would be a good idea for you to visit the site too.
So what do you say? Why not pray for 5 persons and invite each personally to the celebration dinner on: January 6th at 6:30 p.m. in the Chapel. We’ll set a table for you!

Looking for Financial Peace?
We could all use a little financial peace these days. Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University (FPU) is coming to ZUMC!
Beginning Mondays, February 15th, ZUMC will offer Dave Ramsey’s 13 week Financial Peace University Seminar. This is a practical approach to getting your money under control and becoming a better steward of the resources God has given you. FPU is your Total Money Makeover Program. It takes the knowledge from God and turns it into real action in our lives through a step-by-step process video taught by best-selling author, Dave Ramsey. FPU is a life-changing program that empowers and teaches you how to make the right money decisions to achieve your financial goals and God's plan for your life.
Classes will be held on Monday evenings from 6:30—8:30PM, Feb. 15—May 10.
Childcare is available for those who register.
Space is available on a first come first serve basis.
Participant cost is $93 (for individuals or couples) Couples are encouraged to attend together and pay the same $93 for the couple.
Cost includes all materials and a FPU Lifetime Membership.
Plan now to attend a Sneak Preview on either Sunday morning January 3 or January 10 during the Opportunity Hour at 10:10AM.
Class registration is available in the narthex and at each preview in January. Make checks payable to ZUMC.
If you have questions, please contact Dean or Dawn McKnight (873-9425 / dmcknight@zumc.org)

Friday, December 4—7:00 pm - 9:00 pm—ZUMC Chapel

* Free; Join us for a fun evening of food, games, and merriment as we celebrate the true meaning of the season! Please bring a wrapped white elephant gift for the party! Please RSVP to Jeanne Chapman by Dec. 1 to help with preparations! Friends always welcome. (Rt. 56 is a ministry to all current 5th & 6th grade students.)