Alpha
A Safe Space for Big Questions About Life and Faith
Alpha is a series of honest, judgment-free conversations about life, faith, and meaning—hosted right here at Saint Clement in Chicago and in churches around the world. Whether you’re curious (or skeptical!) about spirituality, returning to church, or already practicing and want to go deeper, Alpha offers a relaxed space to explore life’s biggest questions over a meal and in meaningful community.
Everyone is welcome, no matter your background or beliefs. There’s no pressure, no preaching—just real connection and room to grow.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Join Alpha and start the new year taking a meaningful step in your faith journey. Come as you are — all questions, doubts, and backgrounds welcome.
Fall 2026 Alpha Course Dates
MONDAYS, beginning Sept 14 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. — Location: Saint Teresa of Avila Parish
Alpha with Saint Clement and Saint Teresa of Avila parishes
TUESDAYS, beginning Sept. 15 from 8 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. — Location: Saint Clement Parish Chapel
SUNDAY FAMILY TABLE: beginning Sept. 20 from 4:30 - 6:00 p.m. — Location: Saint Clement School
This Alpha experience has been created especially for families (School and Religious Education program). Our hope is not only to provide a space to grow in faith, but also to help parents build meaningful friendships and connections with others who are in a similar stage of life.
Each evening begins with dinner together as a family. After dinner, children ages 3 and up (child must be potty trained) will be cared for by our Saint Clement School Aftercare Team. The children will enjoy a fun hour of supervised play in the school gym while parents participate in the Alpha session, which includes a thought-provoking video and small-group discussion.
Who Should Try Alpha?
Alpha welcomes anyone who is:
New to Catholicism or faith in general
Curious or questioning about God, Jesus, and the Church
Already practicing their faith but seeking to connect more deeply
Interested in exploring life’s big questions and spirituality alongside others asking similar questions
Alpha is a safe place to begin or deepen your faith journey — come as you are.
What Happens During Alpha?
Each week includes a shared meal, a thought-provoking video, and open small group conversation — all in a welcoming, judgment-free environment. It’s a chance to explore faith at your own pace with honest conversations and community.
Why Join Alpha at Saint Clement?
Explore faith in a safe, welcoming space
Build friendships and find support as you discover your spiritual path
Discern the next steps on your faith journey, especially if you are considering becoming Catholic or completing your sacraments of initiation through our OCIA program
Connect with a vibrant Chicago Catholic community
Already Completed Alpha? Here’s What’s Next
If you’ve already completed Alpha, we encourage you to invite a friend or loved one to join this winter! For your continued faith growth, explore our Beta program and other formation opportunities.
Please note: Due to limited spots, Alpha registration is open to new participants only.
From Chicago to Cebu: The Ripple Effect of Alpha
Photo: Youth Alpha Holy Spirit Weekend at the Faith Hub, Cebu, Philippines.
Alpha isn’t just transforming lives here at Saint Clement Parish in Chicago—it’s inspiring change around the world. Two years ago, our parish hosted church leaders from the Philippines who were exploring how Alpha could help renew faith in their communities. Today, the Faith Hub in Cebu is a thriving space for young people to encounter Christ, run by leaders like Ronel, a passionate Alpha host for a youth Alpha. Pictured here is a photo from their recent Holy Spirit Weekend.
We’re proud to be part of this movement of the Spirit — across generations, cultures, and continents.
“You kindled a flame so bright that we had to go back and aspire towards this… The Faith Hub is now an independently run community space that is nurturing faith for the people in Cebu.”
— Elizabeth Lopez, Alpha Philippines