Our first value at Alpha is being real. Being real refers to two things: being real ourselves and presenting the real message of Jesus. More than ever our culture is searching for authenticity. People are looking for: Real love. Real hope. Real vulnerability, and real friends. Every week the Alpha talks present different elements of the Christian faith and during small group time, people share with one another. When we open up about joys and struggles, doubts and fears, we model authenticity and give other people in the group the opportunity to follow. People may admire confidence and strength, but they connect deeply around openness and honesty. Being vulnerable can lower defenses and give permission to share freely about where you are —both in life and in your relationship with God. Often this is how genuine friendships are formed which leads us to our next value, being relational.