Rififi nightclub in 'Staly Vegas' has an unusual adornment these days. Nestling high up on a nearby railway arch, a billboard poster asks the simple question: 'Does God exist? Yes? No? Probably?'.

This national advertising campaign aims to encourage people to attend an Alpha Course at their local church. Alpha, invented by Rev. Nicky Gumbel at Holy Trinity Brompton, is the best known informal setting where people discuss their views on life, faith, Jesus, and church. More than that, Alpha groups bring people of all ages and backgrounds together over delicious meals and a glass of wine to get to know each other as friends.

Holy Trinity Stalybridge is running an Alpha course at the former Riverace nightclub (now St. Matthews) - giving a great time that extra sparkle of a great location.

The course runs every Monday evening during school term, to help out with child care. Starts 7.30pm. Each evening finishes at 9.30pm, as we know everyone is busy these days and needs to get home; although it's not uncommon for people to enjoy each other's company for a while after that.

There's a great bunch of people on this Alpha. It's great to see people relax, eat, drink and get to know each other. It's fascinating to hear groups discuss openly their reactions to the short DVD talks that are shown. Week two's 'Who is Jesus?' certainly sparked off some great discussions and interesting life stories. Whatever your personal views, you will find somebody who shares them at Holy Trinity's Alpha.

Although the course has started, it's still a great time for you to come along if you're interested. You can always catch up on the bits you missed on the next course. But why wait? At the very least, Holy Trinity's Alpha has transformed 'the evening after weekend' into what might just be one of your favourite nights out. If nothing else, you'll meet a fantastic group of people - and the meals really are second to none.

Alpha. St Matthew's centre (Riverace). Mondays 7.30pm.