Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno

QUIAPO CHURCH INTRODUCES ALPHA PROGRAM TO MINISTRY LEADERS AND STAFF

Aug. 28, 2026 01:33 PM

QUIAPO, MANILA — The Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno (Quiapo Church) officially introduced the Alpha Group program to its ministry leaders, organization heads, and staff during an orientation held on August 22, 2026, at the Pope Benedict Building.

The four-hour formation session, held from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM on the building’s sixth floor, marked a new step in the parish’s continuing efforts to strengthen evangelization and spiritual formation.

The orientation was welcomed by Quiapo Church Rector and Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Ramon Jade Licuanan, who expressed his full support for the initiative and welcomed the guest facilitators from the Diocese of Caloocan—Jessie Joy Estorba, Ralph Lumo, and Ramon Santos.

Creating a Space for Questions and Faith

Introducing the Alpha program, Ms. Jessie Joy Estorba explained that Alpha is designed to provide a welcoming and safe environment where people can explore questions about life, faith, and meaning.

She highlighted the importance of creating a space where participants can openly express their questions and perspectives about God and faith without fear of judgment.

At the heart of the Alpha experience are three key elements: Connection, Content, and Conversation.

Connection allows participants to gather over a meal, relax, and build authentic friendships. Content consists of talks that explore the foundations of Christian faith and address questions such as “Who is Jesus?” “Why and how do we pray?” and “How does God guide us?” Meanwhile, Conversation gives participants the opportunity to discuss the topics presented, listen to one another, and share their personal reflections in a friendly and open setting.

Equipping Leaders for the Alpha Journey

The orientation also focused on preparing potential Alpha leaders and facilitators.

Sir Ralph Lumo shared practical techniques for facilitating meaningful conversations, emphasizing the value of asking open-ended questions, listening attentively, affirming participants’ contributions, and being comfortable with silence.

Participants were then divided into small practice groups to experience the different roles involved in an Alpha gathering. Each group included a host, who facilitates the conversation primarily through questions; a helper, who supports the gathering through silent prayer; and visitors, who take part in the discussion and share their thoughts.

The hands-on exercise allowed the participants to experience the dynamics of Alpha firsthand.

Fellowship, Conversation, and Faith Formation

The session featured short video presentations followed by small-group discussions over food. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, enthusiasm, and honest sharing as participants engaged with one another and reflected on the Alpha approach.

The experience offered the ministry leaders and staff a practical glimpse of how Alpha can foster meaningful conversations and relationships while opening opportunities for people to explore the Christian faith.

At the conclusion of the session, Rev. Fr. Richard Lim gathered feedback and suggestions from the participants. Their insights will contribute to the preparation for the succeeding Alpha modules.

The participants ended the orientation with renewed enthusiasm and anticipation for the activities ahead as Quiapo Church continues its Alpha journey.

The introduction of the program reflects the parish’s continuing commitment to evangelization, discipleship, and spiritual formation, providing spaces where people can encounter Christ, ask questions, build relationships, and deepen their faith.

 

 

 

 

Alvin T. Tomagos / EMHC /Quiapo Article Writer