More About Deacon Steve Mitchell
National Alpha for Catholics Coordinator
Deacon Mitchell was ordained a Permanent Deacon for the Archdiocese of Detroit, (AOD) in October 2002 after receiving his Masters Degree from Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Pastoral Studies.
Background
With over 30 years in Sales and Executive Management experience, he founded a professional staffing firm with his brother in 1991. After 18 years he exited the business due to the severe impact of the automotive industry and to pursue a ministry of evangelization. He received his Business Degree from Northwood University in 1984 after spending 8 years in the US Air Force. Deacon Mitchell lives with his wife Jeanie of 25 years and they spend great family time with their six children and grandchildren.
His Heart for Evangelization and Why Alpha Works
Steve has a heart for evangelization, spreading the gospel primarily through his preaching, jail, men ministry and Alpha. A speaker at several men's and ministry functions, he also leads parish missions and educational programs. Deacon Mitchell has served as the Associate Director of Formation for the AOD and chaired a committee as part of the AOD Pastoral Planning Process.
What makes Alpha unique compared to other evangelization initiatives offered in the Catholic Church is that it is coming from the view point of one who is standing on the outside and looking in. Nicky Gumbel has tried to listen to the people who are living without the knowledge and experience of Jesus Christ.
He has successfully endeavored to answer the questions people are asking who are either disconnected from the church or who have little or no knowledge of Christianity. Nicky meets people where they are; listening to their concerns he addresses their questions, and responds with basic biblical principals.
The dynamics of Alpha are brilliant. Alpha provides a safe, non-threatening environment where no question is too dumb and no perception is criticized. Barriers are broken down as we share a meal together and build relationships without regard to what someone believes. People have the opportunity to explore their own thoughts and feelings about what Christianity means and discuss these in the context of a small group.
So often, we are primarily concerned with teaching about the Catholic faith when people have never encountered the living Christ. The graces of the sacraments lie dormant in the hearts of many who have not yet grasped the reality of God's loving presence in everyday life. Without relationship with the Trinity Christ and the Church have no relevance to our daily existence.
The Alpha course provides an opportunity for people to experience initial or ongoing conversion to the person of Christ who reveals the Father and pours the Holy Spirit into our hearts. This happens in the heart of Christian community, the Catholic parish. People who have gone through the Alpha course are hungry to grow in their relationship with Christ through prayer, study, the sacraments, service, and community -- the very heart of parish life. It is critical to see that Alpha is the beginning or the enhancement of lifelong faith formation. It is not an end unto itself and will naturally lead to comprehensive follow-up.
Firsthand Experience
As a Catholic who has seen and experienced firsthand what Alpha does for so many people in the context of Catholic parishes, I am here to serve you and help you discover the amazing benefits of the Alpha adventure.
Please call me with your questions, concerns, and challenges. I am here to assist in every way that I can. Together, let us "Open wide the doors to Christ!" that others may encounter his love, engage in a living relationship with God who is Father, and experience the power of the Holy Spirit.
Rev. Mr. Steve Mitchell
National Director | Alpha for Catholics
Alpha USA
1878 Lakesview
Oxford, MI 48371
248.789.5764
stevemitchell@alphausa.org
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