Episode 027 – The Alpha Approach to Evangelization w/ Jason Kidd and Rick Grinstead

The Church Podcast

• 49 min

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In this episode, Christopher Wesley sits down with Jason Kidd and Rick Grinstead from Alpha USA for an honest and energizing conversation about what real evangelization looks like today. Drawing on their decades of experience in parish and diocesan ministry, Jason and Rick share how Alpha has transformed their understanding of outreach—not as a program to push, but a culture to cultivate. Together, they unpack how radical (and even “unreasonable”) hospitality can lower barriers to faith, why evangelization starts with listening without judgment, and how creating space for real questions leads to real transformation. They share practical steps parishes can take to begin building a culture that welcomes the unchurched and equips leaders to accompany others. Plus, hear how a tattooed party host became the perfect Alpha emcee—and why you should probably leave the theologians off the mic. If you're a ministry leader wondering how to shift your culture from programmatic to personal, or you’ve ever asked “What’s next after Alpha?”—this conversation is for you.