Why Not Try Alpha? Wondering how to connect with others and deepen your faith? Heard about small groups and not sure where to start? #TryAlpha. Alpha is for everyone! 50+ year members, new members, non-members; we all have questions about life and meaning. Alpha is a series of sessions exploring the Christian faith. The sessions include a meal, a topic discussion and good conversation. No pressure, no judgment—just an opportunity to hear from others and contribute your own thoughts in an honest, friendly and open environment. Beginning Sept. 15 at 5:30pm in the Uptown Fellowship Hall. Why not? Questions? Contact Kim Harmon at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

"Experiencing God" by Henry T. Blackaby & Richard Blackaby, is a 13-week study that focuses on the Seven Realities for Experiencing God—those Moses experienced in Exodus 3—that teach believers how to develop an obedient love relationship with God. It explores truths like “God is always at work around you” to introduce a biblical pattern by which God reveals His will so that believers can join His activity in the world.  This is a very friendly small-group study that is workbook and video based beginning Monday, Sept. 16 at 6:30pm in the Uptown Conference Room. Childcare available with advance notice.

Beginning 7:00pm Wed., September 25 in Uptown Room 317, join this six-week study of Adam Hamilton’s book, "Simon Peter." Take an in-depth look at the life, faith and character of this flawed but faithful disciple.

Our Miles for Miracles Fun Run/Walk will be held on Sunday, Oct. 6 at 12:30pm. This race is designed for runners and walkers of all ages and abilities, from serious runners to whole families. It features a relatively flat course, starting and finishing at the Christian Life Center. Whether this is your first 5K or your 100th, you'll fit right in at this race! Proceeds from our race benefit On With Life - Brain Injury Rehabilitation Specialists. Cost: $30 per runner, $35 after September 18. Kids 10 and under are free or $15 to receive a t-shirt. Register THIS WEEK to receive a t-shirt! Don’t want to run but want to support On With Life, then stick around for a free-will offering lunch, music, and more! We need many volunteers to make this race successful. If you are interested in running or volunteering you may register on our website.

"Live Well" is an easy to follow, clinically proven program using spirituality and science to decrease the effects of depression and anxiety. An orientation will be Tues., Sept. 24 at 6:30pm at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1100 SE Sharon Dr., Ankeny. This course is broken into two separate classes—one for depression and one for anxiety, each lasting eight weeks. The cost is $5. Classes start on Oct. 1.