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(Part 2) Introduction to Catechetical Ministry for Children

26/08/2024
catechist

This is part 2 of 2 of Introduction to Catechetical Ministry for Children

One must complete part 1 before applying for this part 2.

This blended course is designed to form and support catechists who seek to deepen their understanding of the fundamental tenets of the Catholic Faith in preparation for their service towards their parish. By the end of the course, participants will be familiar with the core theological concepts that underpin catechetical ministry and will be equipped with essential practical skills for effective service in this ministry.

Catechists who teach children and adolescents.

Target Audience Age: 18+
Module 3 – Catechetical Ministry for Children

These sessions will be held from 9:30am – 12:00pm

These sessions will be held at Archbishops’ Curia, Floriana

DateSession
1st February 2025Getting to Know Who We Are Accompanying
8th March 2025Catechesis in The Digital Era: Practical Aspects
12th April 2025Sacred Scripture
10th May 2025The Moral and Social Teaching of the Church
Module 4 – Safeguarding Children & Vulnerable Adults

This module delves into the essential principles of safeguarding, focusing on creating safe environments for children, young people, and vulnerable adults. By the module’s conclusion, students will be well-versed in safeguarding policies, understand the core principles underlying safeguarding, and recognize various types of abuse along with their signs and symptoms. They will also learn how to handle disclosures of abuse, maintain professional boundaries, identify poor practices, and comprehend their legal obligations under the Protection of Minors (Registration) Act (2011) and the Minors Protection Act (2019).

This module will be offered in-person from February 2025.

This module can be applied for and completed on its own. If you wish to take this module separately from Introduction to Catechetical Ministry, please apply here: https://pfi.edu.mt/course/safeguarding/.

This course has two exit certificate options: 

  1. Certificate of Participation 
  • attend all in-person seminars;
  • pass short multiple-choice online exams, where applicable

2. Certificate of Achievement 

To obtain a Certificate of Achievement, students need to: 

  • attend all in-person seminars;
  • pass the short multiple-choice online exams, where applicable
  • and successfully complete a written assignment, where applicable

Final Awards: Award in Safeguarding Children & Vulnerable Adults

Teaching Institution/s: Pastoral Formation Institute in collaboration with Lifelong Catechesis, and Safeguarding Commission

Complete part 1 of 2 of Introduction to Catechetical Ministry.

Digital competences:

Applicants are required to have basic computer literacy, mainly how to access and use an internet browser and use a word processor

Language competences:

The student is required to have at least primary school level of Maltese and English.

Exemptions

Applicants who have an Award in Safeguarding Children & Vulnerable Adults are exempt from Module 4 – Safeguarding Children & Vulnerable Adults. Applicants are required to send a copy of their qualifications to [email protected] upon application. A formal email is sent to applicants once the qualifications are reviewed.

(Part 1) Introduction to Catechetical Ministry for Children

26/08/2024
catechist

This is part 1 of 2 of Introduction to Catechetical Ministry for Children

This blended course is designed to form and support catechists who seek to deepen their understanding of the fundamental tenets of the Catholic Faith in preparation for their service towards their parish. By the end of the course, participants will be familiar with the core theological concepts that underpin catechetical ministry and will be equipped with essential practical skills for effective service in this ministry.

Catechists who teach children and adolescents.

Target Audience Age: 18+
Module 1 – Faith Foundations for Ministry

This module provides a basic introduction to Christian theology. Participants will explore fundamental scriptural, dogmatic, ecclesiological, and ethical theological concepts that guide the evangelising mission of the Church. By the end of the module, learners will be familiar with the sources of theology and will gain a basic understanding of the main areas of Christian theology.

This module will be offered entirely online, allowing you to complete it at your own pace and on your own schedule.

This module can be applied for and completed on its own. If you wish to take this module separately from Introduction to Catechetical Ministry, please apply here: https://pfi.edu.mt/course/faith-foundation/.

Module 2 – Basic Themes in Catechetical Ministry for Children

This module will enable participants to construct a holistic vision of catechetical ministry, one that responds to contemporary needs, through the exploration of various areas of knowledge and skills essential for the formation of catechetical ministers. These areas include the theoretical and practical aspects of basic catechetical principles, catechetical methodology including lesson planning, exploration of relevant social sciences, and addressing the needs of children with diverse social and/or psychological needs.

This module will be offered entirely online, allowing you to complete it at your own pace and on your own schedule.

This module can be applied for and completed on its own. If you wish to take this module separately from Introduction to Catechetical Ministry, please apply here: https://pfi.edu.mt/course/basic-themes-catechetical-ministry/.

This course has two exit certificate options: 

  1. Certificate of Participation 
  • view all recorded lectures;
  • pass short multiple-choice online exams, where applicable

2. Certificate of Achievement 

To obtain a Certificate of Achievement, students need to: 

  • view all recorded lectures;
  • pass the short multiple-choice online exams, where applicable
  • and successfully complete a written assignment, where applicable

Final Awards: Faith Foundations in Ministry and Basic Themes in Catechetical Ministry

Teaching Institution/s: Pastoral Formation Institute in collaboration with Lifelong Catechesis

Digital competences:

Applicants are required to have basic computer literacy, mainly how to access and use an internet browser and use a word processor

Language competences:

The student is required to have at least primary school level of Maltese and English.

Exemptions

Applicants who have an MQF/EQF level 4 (or higher) in Theology or Religious Studies, or have a General Education Award in Evangelisation, will be exempted from Module 1 – Faith Foundation for Ministry. Applicants are required to send a copy of their qualifications to [email protected] upon application. A formal email is sent to applicants once the qualifications are reviewed.

The Narrative Approach to Reading the Gospel of Luke

19/08/2024

Among the three Synoptic Gospels, the Gospel according to Luke contains the most unique material, written by an author with an excellent command of koiné Greek (New Testament Greek) and a clearly well-educated background. The result is a work of sublime beauty, not only from a theological perspective but also from a literary and narrative one.

Rather than using a more classic historical-critical method, this course will explore this Gospel through a synchronic, narrative approach. To better immerse themselves in this methodology, students will be expected to prepare their own brief analysis of different pericopes (as indicated by the lecturer) for class discussion in each session.

Students will leave this course not only with a greater awareness of the content, style, and message of the Gospel according to Luke, but also having acquired a new methodology for Scriptural interpretation. Above all, they will have deepened their passion for Christ present in the Word.

To be eligible for this course, participants must have completed the ‘Introduction to Sacred Scriptures’ and ‘Introduction to the Synoptic Gospels’ PFI courses at Certificate of Participation level or higher or hold at least an equivalent AFF/MQF Level 4 or higher qualification. Please upload a copy of your relevant certification with the application form.

  • Pastoral Workers involved in Ministry of the Word.
  • Christians committed to continual growth in their relationship with God, who, already have some experience in the formal study of the New Testament.

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Wednesdays from 6:00pm to 8:00pm

DateSession
15th January 2025Introduction to the Narrative Approach (Lk 8:22-25)
22nd January 2025 The Quinary Scheme (Lk 15:11-32)
29th January 2025Plot of Resolution vs Plot of Revelation (Lk 5:1-11)
5th February 2025Characters (Lk 10:25-37)
12th February 2025Point-of-View (Lk 19:1-10)

This course has two exit certificate options:

1. Certificate of Participation

The student will receive a Certificate of Participation when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course and demonstrating a minimum of brief preparatory work prior to each lecture:

Before coming to class, students will be asked to read a pericope as well as a relevant commentary (provided by the lecturer). Their preparation will be demonstrated by writing a few sentences on or highlighting & briefly annotating the Scriptural passage of interest, then uploading this work to the VLE before the session when work must be presented.

2. Certificate of Achievement

To obtain a Certificate of Achievement, students must satisfy the awarding criteria for a Certificate of Participation as well as pass from a short written assignment.

To be eligible for this course, participants must have completed the ‘Introduction to Sacred Scriptures’ and ‘Introduction to the Synoptic Gospels’ PFI courses at Certificate of Participation level or higher or hold at least an equivalent AFF/MQF Level 4 or higher qualification. Please upload a copy of your relevant certification with the application form.

Knowledge: A familiarity with the major scholastic themes in the study of the Synoptic Gospels.

Language: Applicants must be proficient in both Maltese and English.

Digital: Applicants must be digitally literate particularly, in use of office suites and internet access.

Basic Themes in Catechetical Ministry

29/07/2024

This course is eligible for the Get Formed! scheme, allowing students to reclaim 70% of their course fees upon completion. For more information, visit: https://pfi.edu.mt/get-formed/.

This course presents a holistic understanding of catechetical ministry that responds to contemporary needs. Throughout the course, we’ll explore a diverse range of topics essential for shaping proficient catechetical ministers. From delving into foundational theories to mastering practical methodologies, participants will gain insights into basic catechetical principles, effective lesson planning, and leveraging social sciences to meet the diverse needs of children.

By the end of the course, participants will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to develop a thorough and holistic view of the different aspects that form the core identity of the catechetical minister in the Church.

  • Individuals who are either currently involved in or aspiring to be involved in catechetical ministry within the Church.
  • Individuals who are interested in deepening their understanding of catechesis and its practical application.
Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will be delivered entirely through a series of pre-recorded lectures accessible on our VLE platform at a time and place convenient for you.

In these pre-recorded lectures, the following subjects will be covered:

  • Values as a Catechist
  • Identity of Catechesis
  • The Catechist and the Role in the Church
  • Jesus the Master
  • The 5 Aims of Catechesis
  • Catechesis Languages
  • Catechesis and Liturgy
  • The Catechists’ Spirituality
  • Catechesis for Children and Teenagers with Various Conditions
  • Christian Initiation and Catechesis for Adults
  • Catechetical Meetings and Resources

This course has one exit certificate option: 

  1. Certificate of Participation 
  • View all pre-recorded lectures
  • Pass from short online multiple-choice exams

Teaching Institution/s: Pastoral Formation Institute in collaboration with Lifelong Catechesis

Digital competences:

Applicants are required to have basic computer literacy, mainly how to access and use an internet browser and use a word processor

Language competences:

The student is required to be fluent in Maltese and English.

Exemptions

Applicants must have an MQF/EQF level 5 (or higher) qualification in Theology or Religious Studies, or a General Education Award in Evangelisation, or have completed Module 1 – Faith Foundation for Ministry to apply for this course. Applicants are required to upload a copy of their qualification in the application form below. A formal email will be sent to applicants once the qualifications are reviewed.

(EN) Emotional Support In The Community: Basic Skills for Pastoral Workers

03/07/2024

For the version in Maltese, please refer to: https://pfi.edu.mt/course/emotional-support/.

This course is eligible for the Get Formed! scheme, allowing students to reclaim 70% of their course fees upon completion. For more information, visit: https://pfi.edu.mt/get-formed/.

The aim of this course is to empower individuals without academic backgrounds in psychology, such as pastoral workers, volunteers, and others interested in enhancing their fundamental knowledge, skills, and attitudes for interacting effectively with parishioners or others. This course introduces participants to helping skills, theories, and approaches.

Through study and discussion, students gain awareness of tools that assist them in their work with people from diverse cultural and social backgrounds. The course provides an opportunity to reflect on methods used in their work and relationships and evaluate their effectiveness.

By the end of this course, the participant will be able to:

  • Understand the basic theories and skills of helping.
  • Know how to listen and respond appropriately.
  • Provide emotional and spiritual support.
  • Identify when to refer someone to professional help

Individuals without an academic background in psychology, including:

  • Those who regularly provide support and companionship to colleagues and friends in their workplace, family, etc.
  • Pastoral workers, volunteers, or individuals who interact with people in need or visit residential homes.

Target Audience Age: 18+

In this session, participants will explore pastoral work’s helping skills, including active listening, providing support, and validating feelings.

In this session, participants will discuss the crucial skill of empathy in assisting others. Participants will have the opportunity to practice this skill during the session. Additionally, participants will thoroughly explore the practice of maintaining boundaries, as clear and established limits in our work contribute to safe and effective connections.

In this session, participants will cultivate self-awareness; they will be prompted to reflect on and acknowledge their strengths, challenges, beliefs, thoughts, and emotions.

In this session, participants will explore their own spiritual journey and recognize its manifestations in their personal lives and within the community. It will delve into cultural diversity, other religious denominations, and spiritual practices within the parish, examining their impact on individual and community life. Additionally, the session will address spiritual accompaniment and religious practices, differentiating between them and exploring their potential synergy.

In this session, participants will learn when to refer individuals to professional help, understand the significance of confidentiality in pastoral work, and recognize the boundaries of confidentiality.

The course will take place on Mondays from 6:00pm to 8:00pm

This course will be offered in English, for the version in Maltese here: https://pfi.edu.mt/course/emotional-support/

DateSession
11th November 2024Learning how to listen, contain and validate feelings
18th November 2024Learning how to empathise while keeping healthy boundaries
25th November 2024Learning how to support others emotionally as a pastoral worker/non-professional
2nd December 2024How to support others spiritually as a pastoral worker/non-professional
9th December 2024Learning when, where and how to refer someone to professional help

This course has three exit certificate options:

  1. Certificate of Attendance

To obtain a Certificate of Attendance, students must attend all the course contact hours. 

2. Certificate of Participation

To obtain a Certificate of Participation, students must attend all the contact hours and pass the short multiple-choice online exam. 

3. Certificate of Achievement 

To obtain a Certificate of Achievement, students must: 

  • attend all the contact hours;  
  • pass the short multiple-choice online exam; 
  • and successfully complete a Case Study Analysis;

Every application will be considered on its individual merits. The Pastoral Formation Institute accepts a wide range of qualifications, and we always try to judge applications on the basis of academic potential. We do consider a very wide range of academic, vocational, and professional qualifications, as well as work and other appropriate experiences and skills.

Language: Participants must have a primary level understanding of English.

Digital: Participants must know how to access the internet and use office suites.

Basic Media Literacy Education

19/06/2024

This course offers an in-depth exploration of Media Literacy Education (MLE) within the context of theology and pastoral ministries. It investigates the significant impact of the digital and virtual worlds on individuals and communities, underscoring how these influences continuously shape our identities and perspectives.

Adopting a critical approach, the course examines the benefits and challenges presented by various media forms. It emphasizes the need for discernment and critical thinking to effectively navigate today’s complex media landscape. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of media literacy education and its vital role in modern society.

This course is designed for pastoral workers who contribute to the digital presence of their parish and/or organization, as well as individuals who seek to deepen their understanding of Media Literacy Education.

Target Audience Age: 19+

The course will be available from February 2025

The course will be delivered entirely through a series of pre-recorded lectures accessible on our VLE platform at a time and place convenient for you.

The Digital and Virtual Worlds That Shape Us: A Source of Continuous Influence

Benefits and Challenges of Media

What is Media Literacy Education?

The Three Main Pillars of the M.L.E.: Content, Audience and Technical Languages

Basic Principles of M.L.E.

The need of M.L.E. in Theology and Pastoral Ministries in the Church

Pastoral Application of the M.L.E. Pillars

Pastoral Application of the M.L.E. Principles

Understanding and Addressing an Audience

How to Address the Different Aspects of a Person

The Importance of the Pedagogical Narrative: A Guide to Using Digital Technologies as Means to Bridge Catechesis and the Human Experience

The Importance of the Creative Message

Education for Critical Thinking: Inseparable Elements of A Holistic Education

Participants will be equipped with a toolkit to explore and utilize creative tools for preparing materials tailored to pastoral work, enhancing their ability to engage effectively in their ministries.

This course has one exit certificate option:

1. Certificate of Participation

To obtain a Certificate of Participation, students must view all videos and pass from all short multiple-choice exams.

Language: Applicants must be proficient in both Maltese and English.

Digital: Applicants must be digitally literate particularly, in use of office suites and internet access.

Foundations of Spiritual Discernment

12/06/2024

Inspired by Pope Francis and his profound connection to Ignatian spirituality, this course provides an introduction to the essential practice of spiritual discernment. Recognizing the significant role of discernment in the life of the Church and in personal spiritual journeys, this course is designed for those new to the concept. The course does not aim to cover a vast array of content but rather focuses on equipping participants with the basic tools and understanding necessary for further study. Ultimately, the primary objective is to nurture the development of discerning hearts, fostering an ability to navigate life’s complexities with spiritual insight and wisdom.

  • Individuals with limited or no experience in spiritual direction or discernment
  • Christians dedicated to continual growth in their relationship with God
  • Pastoral workers involved in general ministry

Students without a background in theology or spirituality are strongly encouraged to complete the PFI course ‘Introduction to Prayer’ before enrolling in this course.

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Wednesdays from 6:00pm to 8:00pm

DateSession
19th February 2025What’s the destination?
26th February 2025Who are we discerning with?
5th March 2025Levels of discernment
12th March 2025Consolation and Desolation
26th March 2025Defending ourselves

This course has three exit certificate options:

1. Certificate of Attendance

The student will receive a Certificate of Attendance when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course.

2. Certificate of Participation

The student will receive a Certificate of Participation when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course and pass from short multiple-choice exam.

3. Certificate of Achievement

To obtain a Certificate of Achievement, students must attend a minimum of 80% of all contact hour and pass from a short multiple-choice exam and written assignment.

Language: Applicants must be proficient in both Maltese and English.

Digital: Applicants must be digitally literate particularly, in use of office suites and internet access.

Students without a background in theology or spirituality are strongly encouraged to complete the PFI course ‘Introduction to Prayer’ before enrolling in this course.

Introduction to AI in Pastoral Settings: Tools and Practices

23/05/2024

This course is eligible for the Get Formed! scheme, allowing students to reclaim 70% of their course fees upon completion. For more information, visit: https://pfi.edu.mt/get-formed/.

This course aims to equip individuals working in pastoral contexts with the knowledge and skills needed to utilize AI tools effectively. Designed for those with little to no prior knowledge of AI, the course provides a basic understanding of AI systems, their potential applications, and best practices for implementation in pastoral work. By the end of the course, students will have a foundational understanding of how AI tools and systems function, an awareness of the positive and negative aspects of such tools, and an understanding of the Church’s position on AI. They will also develop the ability to critically assess which contexts might benefit from introducing AI tools and which would not, as well as gain awareness of some AI tools that might prove useful in pastoral work.

  • Pastoral Workers
  • Priests
  • Religious

And other individuals interested in the subject

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Saturdays from 9:30am to 12:30pm

Students have the option to join this course online via Zoom

DateSession
19th October 2024What is AI? What is the Church’s position on AI?
26th October 2024Helpful AI tools and how to make use of them

This course has three exit certificate options:

1. Certificate of Attendance

The student will receive a Certificate of Attendance when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course.

2. Certificate of Participation

The student will receive a Certificate of Participation when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course and pass from short multiple-choice exam.

3. Certificate of Achievement

To obtain a Certificate of Achievement, students must attend a minimum of 80% of all contact hour and pass from a short multiple-choice exam and written assignment.

Language: Applicants must be proficient in both Maltese and English.

Digital: Applicants must be digitally literate particularly, in use of office suites and internet access.

Introduction to the Synoptic Gospels

23/05/2024

This course is eligible for the Get Formed! scheme, allowing students to reclaim 70% of their course fees upon completion. For more information, visit: https://pfi.edu.mt/get-formed/.

This course explores the Synoptic Gospels—Mark, Matthew, and Luke—which are often studied together due to their common heritage. In contrast, the Gospel of John belongs to a markedly different tradition and emerged later.

Students will delve into the history and character of these Synoptic Gospels, gaining an appreciation for the styles and themes that are both common and unique to each. This knowledge will be applied through systematic analysis of relevant passages from these three Gospels.

By integrating the content and skills acquired during this course, students will be able to interpret Synoptic passages with greater depth, meaning, and accuracy. They will also learn to recognise and avoid common errors in Scriptural interpretation. Above all, students will grow in their passion for Christ as revealed in the Word.

To be eligible for this course, participants must have completed the ‘Introduction to Sacred Scriptures’ or hold at least an MQF Level 4 qualification in religion or theology. Please upload a copy of your relevant certification with the application form.

  • Pastoral Workers involved in Ministry of the Word.
  • Christians committed to continual growth in their relationship with God, who, however, have little to no experience in the formal study of the scripture.

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Wednesdays from 6:00pm to 8:00pm

Students have the option to join this course online via Zoom

DateSession
6th November 2024Gospel According to Mark
13th November 2024Gospel According to Matthew
20th November 2024Gospel According to Luke
27th November 2024The Two-Source Hypothesis
4th December 2024The Two-Source Hypothesis (Application)

This course has three exit certificate options:

1. Certificate of Attendance

The student will receive a Certificate of Attendance when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course.

2. Certificate of Participation

The student will receive a Certificate of Participation when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course and pass from short multiple-choice exam.

3. Certificate of Achievement

To obtain a Certificate of Achievement, students must attend a minimum of 80% of all contact hour and pass from a short multiple-choice exam and written assignment.

To be eligible for this course, participants must have completed the ‘Introduction to Sacred Scriptures’ or hold at least an MQF Level 4 qualification in religion or theology. Please upload a copy of your relevant certification with the application form.

Language: Applicants must be proficient in both Maltese and English.

Digital: Applicants must be digitally literate particularly, in use of office suites and internet access.

Expressions of Personal Prayer

23/05/2024

This course is eligible for the Get Formed! scheme, allowing students to reclaim 70% of their course fees upon completion. For more information, visit: https://pfi.edu.mt/get-formed/.

This course acquaints students with the more common expressions of prayer within the Catholic Church, exploring their origins, strengths, limitations, and appropriate contexts. By internalising this knowledge, students will be motivated and equipped to advance in their own prayer journey and to guide communal moments of prayer effectively.

To be eligible for this course, participants must have completed the ‘Introduction to Prayer’ course or possess at least an MQF Level 4 qualification in religion or theology. Please upload a copy of your relevant certification with the application form.

  • Pastoral Workers involved in general ministry.
  • Christians committed to continual growth in their relationship with God, who, however, have little to no experience in the formal study of prayer.

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Wednesdays from 6:00pm to 8:00pm

Students have the option to join this course online via Zoom

DateSession
15th January 2025Praying with Nature and Music
22nd January 2025Praying with Art
29th January 2025Praying with Scripture
5th February 2025Devotional Prayer
12th February 2025Praying Like the Saints

This course has three exit certificate options:

1. Certificate of Attendance

The student will receive a Certificate of Attendance when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course.

2. Certificate of Participation

The student will receive a Certificate of Participation when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course and pass from short multiple-choice exam.

3. Certificate of Achievement

To obtain a Certificate of Achievement, students must attend a minimum of 80% of all contact hour and pass from a short multiple-choice exam and written assignment.

To be eligible for this course, participants must have completed the ‘Introduction to Prayer’ course or possess at least an MQF Level 4 qualification in religion or theology. Please upload a copy of your relevant certification with the application form.

Language: Applicants must be proficient in both Maltese and English.

Digital: Applicants must be digitally literate particularly, in use of office suites and internet access.