Tanya Casey, Dun Laoghaire

I live in Dun Laoghaire and manage a retail outlet in the centre of Dublin.  I am 31 years of age and from age 18 year old I found myself on a major destructive path of drink, bad relationships, depression and addictions.  After a family tragedy 2 years ago I was very depressed.  I surfed the internet looking for answers one evening and came across the Alpha website – www.alphacourse.ie – where I discovered that there was going to be an Alpha in a café in central Dublin.

I took a chance and went, to my surprise there were NORMAL people like me there struggling with similar things but we were all there because we were searching for meaning and purpose. It was the best thing I ever did, didn’t feel judged or pressured. There was laughter, tears, and interesting discussions, all in a relaxed environment.   It was life changing.  I was a closet Christian and I found that doing the Alpha course was a catalyst for bringing my faith alive.  It was really authentic.  For the first time I came to understand some of the historical facts behind Christianity. It was non judgemental.  Wonderful friendships were built up on this Alpha course; two of the girls in my Small group are now two of my best friends today.

A year later; I am now part of a lovely church, blessed to call some of these amazing people my friends.  I am growing in my relationship with Jesus, and in fellowship. Every day the Holy Spirit makes more room in my heart to live there. I still struggle with so much but the difference is now I don’t have to do it alone. I look forward to the future and not to past hurts or sin.
I thank God for the Alpha Course and for the people that take the risk of faith to bring people to Him.

Mick Moore, Sallynoggin

I really got a lot out of the Alpha Course. The talks from Nicky were very inspiring and he was able to put it simple and easy to comprehend. The input also from our group made it easier for me to grasp what was said on the DVD. As the sessions continued I took passages from the bible into my own life. I remember writing down a comment from Nicky, it said ‘God calls us into things not out of things’. I can bring that into my own life and remember that he is with me no matter what. .

I remember a picture (light of world in St. Peter’s) of Jesus knocking on a door and waiting. He won’t come in if not answered. I immediately thought of my own life and Jesus waiting for me. I have answered and he is with me today.

I was apprehensive about the Holy Spirit Day in Delgany, however I ended up really enjoying it. The wisdom of knowledge I asked for from our Lord during our group talks came true with my improvement in college results recently. I was questioning my role as a student and my academic ability beforehand.  Anyway that was put to rest by our Lord telling me I am there for a reason and to continue doing what I am doing. This meant a lot to me and I will continue my college and not question my ability.

The lord is working through me and only for Alpha I probably would have not seen this.