A MAJOR conference to discuss an initiative aimed at prompting people to examine their beliefs and values and to address Christ's teachings has been backed by the Archbishop of York, Dr David Hope

The Archbishop said he was "extremely encouraged" by plans for the conference, to be held at St Michael-le-Belfrey Church, York, on June 5 and 6, to support and guide churches in running one of the highly-acclaimed Alpha courses.

The programme has also won the backing of this region's most senior Roman Catholic figure.

The Alpha programme originated at Holy Trinity Church, Brompton, in west London. It is said to provide a stimulating and non-threatening setting for people to explore their beliefs and values.

Church leaders say the programme may or may not draw participants into the Christian faith, but it enables them to look afresh at the person and teachings of Jesus Christ and make their own minds up. They say Alpha is commended by Christian leaders of all traditions, and is currently used in 132 countries.

The June event features Nicky Gumbel and Sandy Millar, curate and vicar at Holy Trinity, Brompton, who originally devised Alpha. It is intended for church leaders who may or may not have experience of running Alpha, but want to know more, and for Alpha team members as part of their training.

Much of the conference covers the practicalities of running Alpha, and includes experiencing 'model Alpha' sessions.

Dr Hope said: "I am extremely encouraged to hear of the major Alpha conference in York in June. Alpha has touched the hearts and lives of countless people from every walk of life, transforming them and renewing them with that abundance of life and living which Jesus Christ wills for every person."

The Roman Catholic Bishop of Middlesbrough, the Right Rev John Crowley, said: "I warmly commend the Alpha conference in York this June. It is a proven way of touching hearts with faith either for the first time, or by renewing the joy and attraction of the Gospel."

The standard conference fee is £49 per person, but group and other deals are available. Those interested should phone Mark Rance on 01904 624190, or admin@st-michael-le-belfrey.org .

Updated: 09:59 Friday, April 18, 2003