Barrie explains it all started from delivering an Alpha course to a group in a local retirement village and it is from the Alpha idea that Barrie chose the name Sigma (a Greek letter much nearer the end of the Alphabet). Using the Alpha Express course DVD, he found that participants really engaged with the DVD experience and it successfully cultivated an open discussion with even the quieter residents sharing their own experiences. The purpose is not to preach but to build Christian relationships and community for those who for various reasons have been de-churched. This has been successful particularly with a group where many residents are affected by dementia as the DVD and discussion draws out memories and experiences from their lives. The Alpha Express DVD is a good starter but when the Alpha course has finished, Barrie has been using Praise DVDs such as Songs of Praise as the DVD aspect of what he does seems to be most effective.
Practically speaking, Barrie suggests midmorning as residents relax over coffee is probably the best time to run such an activity. In the residents’ lounge, following a short prayer, the DVD is played and there follows a discussion, initially about a topic the DVD raises but inevitably opening up wider experiences. Sessions last about an hour and close with the Lord’s Prayer, which is a powerful tool particularly with those in the dementia setting as it is something they remember clearly.
This all seems to meet a real need and be something that many churches could replicate. Often one-to-one pastoral care and sharing communion is an important part of the vicar/minister’s ministry but there is often a lack of Christian fellowship in groups in these residential settings. Providing the means for a group with simple input and a place for discussion and sharing Christ is something easy to do if there are a few people passionate and willing to do it. There is something powerful in being available to residents to share Christ and build relationships regularly (not just the annual carol service for example) for those who are isolated, lonely and de-churched. The links are often already there (through one-to-one pastoring) and it runs very easily.
Barrie shared various examples of the impact it has on the residents. Various people, who have often appeared closed off and isolated, really open up in this setting, revealing a spiritual awareness below the surface. The DVD experience, particularly with the conversational and youthful style of the Alpha course was also found to be particularly energising for residents. Furthermore, the sharing of experiences and memories related to faith was something which all could participate in at a level they felt comfortable.
If you are interested in finding out more, please do get in touch. Barrie is keen to share what he’s doing with others as, as he sees it, this is something effective and very easy to replicate. We would be interested in hearing any other good stories about work you know of addressing ages or life stages – let us know.