Most people know that the Bible is a book about God written a long time ago, starting with Genesis. But the Bible is important because Christians believe it is the "word of God", which means that it is also one of the ways in which God speaks now. This is why they call it "living and active", ie. not just words written down, unlike other literature.

This Alpha video tells you a little more, but you could simply get a copy (it's the most sold book ever) and start to read. We recommend you start with one of the books about Jesus' life (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) called the Gospels (which simply means, Good news, which it is!) - Mark's gospel is the shortest, and can be read in one sitting.

Prayer is basically talking to God, as you would any other person. The Bible gives guidance on how to do it, but it also says that anyone can pray to God. Why not start by simply talking to God and telling Him what's worrying you. He'll be listening.

We have a page devoted to prayer on our website where you can even  send your prayer requests in for others to pray for you.

You might find a book called How to Pray, by Pete Greig helpful - it available from all good bookshops.