August 5-6, 2005: Alpha© Canada National Conference in Mississauga
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On
Friday, August 5th and Saturday August 6th nearly 1500
attended the Alpha Canada Leadership Conference held at Portico Community Church in
Mississauga. The purpose of this conference was amongst other things, to
update Alpha
Leaders and participants on new initiatives and how to improve the running of
their courses. Alpha
courses are available to thousands of Canadians in church settings, in homes,
in prisons, in colleges and in youth groups. Local
groups of churches throughout Canada have joined together as never before in
order to offer information evenings and dinners, many new ones will be
starting next month. Two
years ago there was a large Alpha national initiative that resulted in
thousands of new courses being offered. This year the expectations are even
higher! Alpha courses are already running in many cities and communities
across Canada. More information is available from the Alpha
Canada website. Pastor
Nicky Gumble from Holy Trinity Church (HTB), Brompton,
(London) UK was the keynote speaker and teacher. Nicky will be installed as
the new Vicar of HTB next month. Worship and Praise was led by David Clifton
one of the worship leaders from Holy Trinity, Brompton. David has the
anointed ability to bring people into God’s presence as a solo singer and
worshiper. Thank you David! Part
of the Friday evening session involved testimonies from nearly 30 people
whose lives have been changed by their Alpha experience. The
facilities at Portico are ideal for such a gathering and the number of
volunteers attested to their commitment to Alpha! Thanks to the staff and
volunteers!. Food,
did I mention food? The
cost of the conference included two daily snacks, two lunches and a
bar-be-que dinner – all served ‘under the tent’. The logistics were daunting
but I have never seen such efficient and well run food lines. Here
are a few pictures from the weekend conference. |
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Overhead screen announcing the
Conference. The wonderful gathering in
Portico Church. |
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Worship was marvellous and deep. Anointed David Clifton leading
worship. |
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Nicky sharing his vision for Alpha. Nicky was approachable to
everyone. |
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Gathering outside to share with others The very efficient food
tent! |
