Welcome to Our Courses

At St. Francis Holland, we are excited to offer two enriching courses: the Alpha Course and the Rescue Project. These courses are designed to provide a welcoming environment for honest conversations about some of life’s biggest questions. Through meaningful discussions, you will have the opportunity to connect with others, share your thoughts, ideas, and experiences in a safe and caring environment, and encounter Jesus in a transformative way.

Our courses focus on introducing and deepening your understanding of the Christian Kerygma, the core message of the Gospel. Whether you are exploring the Catholic faith for the first time, seeking to rediscover its beauty, or preparing yourself or your children for the sacraments of initiation, our courses are tailored to guide you on this spiritual journey.

Join us as we explore the richness of the Catholic Christian faith and prepare for the sacraments. We look forward to walking this path with you.

Alpha Course

The Alpha Course is an engaging series that explores the basics of the Christian faith within a Catholic context. Each session includes a video presentation and open discussions, allowing you to delve into life’s big questions and share your thoughts in a safe and supportive space.

Whether you're curious about Catholicism or looking to deepen your faith, the Alpha Course is a great opportunity to connect with others, explore your beliefs, and experience the transformative message of Jesus. Everyone is welcome, regardless of your background or beliefs.

Discover more about yourself, your faith, and the community around you. Sign up today and take the first step on this enlightening journey.

Testimonies from St. Francis de Sales
Official Alpha Trailer

Episodes

• Episode 1: Is there more to life than this?
• Episode 2: Who is Jesus? 
• Episode 3: Why did Jesus die? 
• Episode 4: How can I have faith? 
• Episode 5 : How and why should I pray? 
• Episode 6: How and why should I read the Bible? 
• Episode 7: How does God guide us? 
• Episode 8: Introduction to the Alpha Day/Weekend (Weekend introduction)
• Episode 9: Who is the Holy Spirit? (Weekend talk 1) 
• Episode 10: What does the Holy Spirit do? (Weekend talk 2) 
• Episode 11: How can I be filled with the Holy Spirit? (Weekend talk 3) 
• Episode 12: How can I make the most of the rest of my life? (Weekend talk 4) 
• Episode 13: How can I resist evil? 
• Episode 14: Why and how should I tell others? 
• Episode 15: Does God heal today? 
• Episode 16: What about the church? 

Rescue Project

The Rescue Project by Fr. John Riccardo offers a profound journey into the heart of the Gospel, designed to rekindle your faith and deepen your relationship with Jesus. Through compelling talks, engaging discussions, and transformative experiences, this course provides a unique opportunity to explore the powerful message of salvation in a supportive Catholic environment.

The Rescue project is great for those who have some faith, those who are looking to return to the Catholic Church, and those who have studied the Catholic faith and are now looking to dive into a lived experience of the life-changing love of God and the hope found in Jesus Christ and His Church. Experience the joy of community, grow in your understanding of the Gospel, and be inspired to live out your faith in everyday life.

Embark on this spiritual journey with us. 

• Chapter One: The Importance of Stories
• Chapter Two: Why Is There Something Rather than Nothing?
• Chapter Three: The Enemy Is the Enemy
• Chapter Four: It Gets Worse
• Rescued Chapter Five: Why Did Jesus Come?
• Chapter Six: What Difference Does It Make?
• Response Chapter Seven: Words Are Not Enough
• Chapter Eight: What Does He Want from Me?
• Chapter Nine: Getting Clarity on the Mission..

What to Expect

First Up There’s...Hospitality

Whether it’s a group of friends gathered around a kitchen table, or a quick catch-up over coffee and cake, food has a way of bringing people together. It’s no different with either of these two programs. We start with snacks, coffee, or tea, because it’s a great way to encourage community and get to know each other. 

Then a...Talk

The talks are designed to engage and inspire conversation. Generally thirty minutes long in our Alpha Course and fourty five minutes long in Rescue Project, they are presented via video. They explore the big issues around faith and unpack the basics of Christianity, addressing questions such as Who is Jesus? and How can we have faith? 

Followed by...Discussion

Probably the most important part of any either program: the chance to share thoughts and ideas on the topic, and simply discuss it in a small group. There’s no obligation to say anything. And there’s nothing you can’t say. It’s an opportunity to hear from others and contribute your own perspective in an honest, friendly and open environment.

One time retreat experience

In the middle of both the Alpha Course and the Rescue Project, we gather for a Saturday to explore the Holy Spirit. The retreat involves food, beverage, games, and prayer.