Archives

Faith Foundations for Ministry

10/06/2026

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 module offers a basic introduction to key themes of the main areas of Christian theology. These include fundamental, scriptural, dogmatic, ecclesiological, and ethical theological concepts guiding the evangelising mission of the Church.

By the end of the module the learner will have:
  • become aware of what the sources of theology are;
  • gained a basic understanding of the main areas of Christian theology.

This course is intended to form and support adults who wish to become better acquainted with the basic tenets of the Catholic Faith. This course is offered in asynchronous learning mode as a foundation course before applying for other courses offered by the Pastoral Formation Institute.

Adults who do not have an academic theological background and wish to widen their knowledge on the Catholic Faith. 

Target Audience Age: 18+

TopicLecturer
The Sacred ScripturesMr Edward Wright
The Scriptures, Tradition and MagisteriumMr Edward Wright
The Christian doctrine of God of Jesus ChristMs Dorianne Cassar
The Holy SpiritDr Dorianne Buttigieg
The Church as the builder of the Kingdom of God Mr Edward Wright
The Meaning of the Sacraments and the LiturgyRev. Stephen Attard
The Catholic Social Teaching of the Church Rev. Dr Carlo Calleja

 

Applicants will have access to this material on the PFI`s Moodle Portal. The module is delivered in short, recorded sessions which are each about 15 minutes long. The students will be provided with a username and a password so they can watch these sessions on their own devices. The total number of minutes amounts to 8 hours.

Usernames and passwords will be sent to students within a week of payment confirmation.

This course has two exit certificate options: 
  1. Certificate of Participation

To obtain a Certificate of Participation need to watch all the online material and successfully complete all the short multiple-choice exams. 

2. Certificate of Achievement 

To obtain a Certificate of Achievement, students need to: 

  • pass the short multiple-choice online exams; 
  • and successfully complete a written assignment;

An electronic certificate will be sent via email, within a week of successfully completing the course.

Click here to view the PFI’s Grading System

AFF Level: Level 4

Total Credits: 1 Credit

Teaching and Awarding Institution: Pastoral Formation Institute

Qualifications: 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: Primary level understanding of Maltese and English.

Digital: Knows how to access the internet and use a word processor.

Called to Witness: Formation for Confraternity Members

04/06/2026

This course offers confraternity members a renewed understanding of their identity and mission within the life of the Church. Rooted in history, tradition, and spirituality, the programme explores the meaning of confraternity life, personal and communal spiritual growth, discipline and public witness, parish service, and continuity in today’s world. Through reflection, discussion, and practical guidance, members are invited to deepen their commitment and live their vocation with renewed faith, dignity, and responsibility.

Active members of confraternities (new and long-standing) and youths discerning membership

Target Audience Age: 16+

This course comprises pre-recorded lectures, which can be accessed on the Moodle platform at a time and pace that suits you. The lectures will cover the following topics:

The course will end with an in person session at the respective parish.

Session
 
What Is a Confraternity? Identity, History & Purpose

The Spiritual Life of the Confraternity Member
Discipline, Dress & Public Witness
Continuity & Faithful Witness Today
Service in the Parish & Organisation

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 a 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 an 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.

CPD – Catechetical Ministry for Children – Selected Areas

04/06/2026

This course explores key dimensions of contemporary catechetical ministry with children and pre-adolescents, placing particular emphasis on collaboration with families, spiritual nurture, inclusion, and effective pedagogical practice. Participants will reflect on the role of catechesis within today’s diverse realities and examine practical approaches that foster meaningful faith formation and deeper integration within the Christian community. Through discussion, reflection, and applied pastoral insights, the course seeks to equip catechists and pastoral workers with the tools necessary to accompany young people in their faith journey with greater confidence and sensitivity.

Catechists

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Saturdays between 9:30am – 12:00pm at

Ta’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, il-Mosta
DateSession
24th October 2026 
Catechesis Together: Working with Parents and Families
30th January 2027
The Spirituality of Children and Pre-Adolescents
27th February 2027Catechetical Formation in Challenging Contexts
24th April 2027The Integration of Children and Pre-Adolescents within the Community
22nd May 2027Pedagogical Aspects of Catechesis

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 a 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 an 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.

Ħarbex il-Melodija 2

03/06/2026   Knisja tal-Erwieħ, Ħal Tarxien

Sejħa għall-kompożituri. L-Arċidjoċesi ta’ Malta tistiednek tagħti il-kontribut tiegħek sabiex jitkompla jissawwar repertorju ġdid ta’ kant liturġiku permezz tal-kitba tiegħek. Il-kors Ħarbex il-Melodija huwa kors ta’ 3 workshops li l-Akkademja tal-Mużika Sagra Francesco Azopardi qed torganizza b’kollaborazzjoni mal-Pastoral Formation Institute għal dawk kollha li jixtiequ jħaddmu d-don mużikali tal-kitba tal-mużika b’għan qaddis.

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Saturdays between 8:30am – 2:30pm at

Knisja tal-Erwieħ, Tarxien
DateSession
20th February 2027 
Innijiet tal-Għeluq tal-Quddiesa
20th March 2027
Innijiet tal-Milied
3rd April 2027Innijiet tal-Għid

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 a 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 an 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.

Music Theory for Singers 1

01/06/2026

This course is intended for singers who would like to learn how to read music. Participants will learn about notes and note values, clefs, staves, time signatures and other basic elements of written music. Together with the theoretical part, they will practice reading pitch and rhythm.

Singers, especially liturgical animators and choristers, will enhance their musical talent with the ability to read music. It allows them to become better singers and offer a better service.

Start learning how to read music with this basic course and open yourself up to a whole new side of music.

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Tuesdays between 6:00pm – 8:00pm at

Archbishops’ Seminary, Rabat
DateSession
6th October 2026 
 Introduction to pitch 1
13th October 2026
 Introduction to pitch 2
20th October 2026 Basics of rhythm and tempo 1
27th October 2026Basics of rhythm and tempo 2
10th November 2027 
 Scales and key signatures
17th November 2026Music reading practicum

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 a 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 an 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.

Basics of Organ Performance in the Liturgy

01/06/2026

This course is intended for those who although have been trained to play the piano do not yet have the required skills to play either a digital or pipe organ. This course is meant for those already playing the organ in their parish, either regularly or occasionally, and others who intend to start doing so.  

The course, which leads to a certificate at level 3 of the Archdiocese Framework, is spread over six meetings which include practical sessions on the organ by participants. During all sessions guidance is given on when and how the organ should be used in liturgical celebrations and which hymns and repertoire would be suitable.  

This course is intended for adult Catholics and mature older adolescents seeking to improve their knowledge of music in religious settings, in particular of the organ.

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Wednesdays between 6:00pm – 8:00pm at

Archbishops’ Seminary, Rabat
DateSession
7th April 2027Playing the organ pedals
14th April 2027Legato and non-legato touch   
21st April 2027Registration
28th April 2027The organ as accompaniment to the cantor and the congregation
5th May 2027Harmonization of liturgical hymns
12th May 2027Organ improvisation in the liturgy

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 a 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 an 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.

Award in Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults for Parroċċa tan-Naxxar

29/05/2026   Parroċċa tan-Naxxar
MQF

The Pastoral Formation Institute is licensed by MFHEA
(Licence #: 2013-FHI-028) as a Further and Higher Educational Institute. The Award in Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults is accredited at EQF/MQF Level 4, as a Higher Education Programme.

The short course – Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults will assist staff and volunteers in recognising the key principles of safeguarding and in creating a safe environment for children, young people and vulnerable adults.

Parroċċa tan-Naxxar parishioners

October – November 2026
Lecturing Period
Mode of DeliveryDate & TimeVenue
In-personMonday 19th October 2026
from 6:30pm to 8:00pm		Parroċċa tan-Naxxar
In-personMonday 26th October 2026
from 6:30pm to 8:00pm		Parroċċa tan-Naxxar
Recorded MaterialSaturday 14th November 2026 – Saturday 28th November 2026Recorded videos will be accessible online via our Moodle VLE platform
Assessment Period
AssessmentAvailable FromDue by
Short Multiple-Choice Online ExamMonday 26th October 2026Monday 9th November 2026
Reflective JournalMonday 26th October 2026Thursday 26th November 2026
LO1 – Competence

By the end of the programme, the learner will have acquired a good enough combination of the below mentioned skills and knowledge, so much so that s/he will be competent enough to provide an emotionally, mentally and spiritually safe working environment for children and/or vulnerable adults; can recognise and deal with different signs of abuse; can comply with national laws, policies and procedures concerning safeguarding and can refer and collaborate with professionals in the field to ensure that the person in question is not being abused.

LO2 – Knowledge

By the end of the programme, the learner will be able to: a) identify the principles of safeguarding; b) familiarise himself/herself with safeguarding policies; c) identify signs and symptoms of different types of abuse; d) know the disclosures of abuse; e) know the legal obligations related to the Protection of Minors; (Registration) Act (2011) and the Minor Protection (Alternative Care) Act (2019).

LO3 – Skill

By the end of the programme, the learner will be able to: a) practice the principles of safeguarding; b) practice professional boundaries; c) use a standard response to a disclosure of abuse; d) be able to recognise signs and symptoms of different types of abuse; e) identify the actions to take if you have a concern and also identify who can help;

This course has three exit certificate options: 

  1. Certificate of Attendance

A Certificate of Attendance will be awarded to students who:

  • attend the in‑person session,
  • watch all the recorded material, and
  • do not submit any course assessments.
  1. Certificate of Participation 

A Certificate of Participation will be rewarded to students who:

  • attend the in‑person session,
  • watch all the recorded material, and
  • submit and pass a short online multiple‑choice examination
  1. Certificate of Achievement 

A Certificate of Achievement is awarded to students who successfully concluded the course, that is;

  • attending the in‑person lecture and completing all online videos,
  • submit and pass a short online multiple‑choice examination
  • submit and pass a short reflective journal.

Students who obtain the Certificate of Achievement will also receive an MFHEA‑recognised certificate and transcript at MQF Level 4 (1 ECTS credit).

Click here to view the PFI’s Grading System

Awarding Body: Pastoral Formation Institute

There are no qualifications required for this course. The only requisites are:

Language competences: The student is required to have an end of primary school level of understanding of Maltese and English.

Digital competences: The student is required to be digitally literate, including knowing how to access the internet and use a word processor.

This course is mandatory requirement for all staff and volunteers working for the Church in Malta and part of the Safeguarding Clearance Certificate.

Award in Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults for Parroċċa tal-Marsa – Marija Reġina

26/05/2026   Parroċċa tal-Marsa - Marija Reġina, Marsa
MQF

The Pastoral Formation Institute is licensed by MFHEA
(Licence #: 2013-FHI-028) as a Further and Higher Educational Institute. The Award in Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults is accredited at EQF/MQF Level 4, as a Higher Education Programme.

The short course – Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults will assist staff and volunteers in recognising the key principles of safeguarding and in creating a safe environment for children, young people and vulnerable adults.

Parroċċa tal-Marsa – Marija Reġina parishioners

January – February 2027
Lecturing Period
Mode of DeliveryDate & TimeVenue
In-personSaturday 9th January 2027
from 9:30am to 12:30pm		Parroċċa tal-Marsa – Marija Reġina
Recorded MaterialSaturday 9th January 2027 – Saturday 23rd January 2027Recorded videos will be accessible online via our Moodle VLE platform
Assessment Period
AssessmentAvailable FromDue by
Short Multiple-Choice Online ExamSaturday 9th January 2027Saturday 23rd January 2027
Reflective JournalSaturday 9th January 2027Saturday 9th February 2027
LO1 – Competence

By the end of the programme, the learner will have acquired a good enough combination of the below mentioned skills and knowledge, so much so that s/he will be competent enough to provide an emotionally, mentally and spiritually safe working environment for children and/or vulnerable adults; can recognise and deal with different signs of abuse; can comply with national laws, policies and procedures concerning safeguarding and can refer and collaborate with professionals in the field to ensure that the person in question is not being abused.

LO2 – Knowledge

By the end of the programme, the learner will be able to: a) identify the principles of safeguarding; b) familiarise himself/herself with safeguarding policies; c) identify signs and symptoms of different types of abuse; d) know the disclosures of abuse; e) know the legal obligations related to the Protection of Minors; (Registration) Act (2011) and the Minor Protection (Alternative Care) Act (2019).

LO3 – Skill

By the end of the programme, the learner will be able to: a) practice the principles of safeguarding; b) practice professional boundaries; c) use a standard response to a disclosure of abuse; d) be able to recognise signs and symptoms of different types of abuse; e) identify the actions to take if you have a concern and also identify who can help;

This course has three exit certificate options: 

  1. Certificate of Attendance

A Certificate of Attendance will be awarded to students who:

  • attend the in‑person session,
  • watch all the recorded material, and
  • do not submit any course assessments.
  1. Certificate of Participation 

A Certificate of Participation will be rewarded to students who:

  • attend the in‑person session,
  • watch all the recorded material, and
  • submit and pass a short online multiple‑choice examination
  1. Certificate of Achievement 

A Certificate of Achievement is awarded to students who successfully concluded the course, that is;

  • attending the in‑person lecture and completing all online videos,
  • submit and pass a short online multiple‑choice examination
  • submit and pass a short reflective journal.

Students who obtain the Certificate of Achievement will also receive an MFHEA‑recognised certificate and transcript at MQF Level 4 (1 ECTS credit).

Click here to view the PFI’s Grading System

Awarding Body: Pastoral Formation Institute

There are no qualifications required for this course. The only requisites are:

Language competences: The student is required to have an end of primary school level of understanding of Maltese and English.

Digital competences: The student is required to be digitally literate, including knowing how to access the internet and use a word processor.

This course is mandatory requirement for all staff and volunteers working for the Church in Malta and part of the Safeguarding Clearance Certificate.

Award in Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults for San Anton

26/05/2026   San Anton School, Imġarr
MQF

The Pastoral Formation Institute is licensed by MFHEA
(Licence #: 2013-FHI-028) as a Further and Higher Educational Institute. The Award in Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults is accredited at EQF/MQF Level 4, as a Higher Education Programme.

The short course – Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults will assist staff and volunteers in recognising the key principles of safeguarding and in creating a safe environment for children, young people and vulnerable adults.

San Anton school

July – August 2026
Lecturing Period
Mode of DeliveryDate & TimeVenue
In-personThursday 2nd July 2026
from 9:00am to 12:00pm		San Anton School
Recorded MaterialThursday 2nd July 2026 – 16th July 2026Recorded videos will be accessible online via our Moodle VLE platform
Assessment Period
AssessmentAvailable FromDue by
Short Multiple-Choice Online ExamThursday 2nd July 2026Thursday 16th July 2026
Reflective JournalThursday 2nd July 2026Sunday 2nd August 2026
LO1 – Competence

By the end of the programme, the learner will have acquired a good enough combination of the below mentioned skills and knowledge, so much so that s/he will be competent enough to provide an emotionally, mentally and spiritually safe working environment for children and/or vulnerable adults; can recognise and deal with different signs of abuse; can comply with national laws, policies and procedures concerning safeguarding and can refer and collaborate with professionals in the field to ensure that the person in question is not being abused.

LO2 – Knowledge

By the end of the programme, the learner will be able to: a) identify the principles of safeguarding; b) familiarise himself/herself with safeguarding policies; c) identify signs and symptoms of different types of abuse; d) know the disclosures of abuse; e) know the legal obligations related to the Protection of Minors; (Registration) Act (2011) and the Minor Protection (Alternative Care) Act (2019).

LO3 – Skill

By the end of the programme, the learner will be able to: a) practice the principles of safeguarding; b) practice professional boundaries; c) use a standard response to a disclosure of abuse; d) be able to recognise signs and symptoms of different types of abuse; e) identify the actions to take if you have a concern and also identify who can help;

This course has three exit certificate options: 

  1. Certificate of Attendance

A Certificate of Attendance will be awarded to students who:

  • attend the in‑person session,
  • watch all the recorded material, and
  • do not submit any course assessments.
  1. Certificate of Participation 

A Certificate of Participation will be rewarded to students who:

  • attend the in‑person session,
  • watch all the recorded material, and
  • submit and pass a short online multiple‑choice examination
  1. Certificate of Achievement 

A Certificate of Achievement is awarded to students who successfully concluded the course, that is;

  • attending the in‑person lecture and completing all online videos,
  • submit and pass a short online multiple‑choice examination
  • submit and pass a short reflective journal.

Students who obtain the Certificate of Achievement will also receive an MFHEA‑recognised certificate and transcript at MQF Level 4 (1 ECTS credit).

Click here to view the PFI’s Grading System

Awarding Body: Pastoral Formation Institute

There are no qualifications required for this course. The only requisites are:

Language competences: The student is required to have an end of primary school level of understanding of Maltese and English.

Digital competences: The student is required to be digitally literate, including knowing how to access the internet and use a word processor.

This course is mandatory requirement for all staff and volunteers working for the Church in Malta and part of the Safeguarding Clearance Certificate.

Serving at the Lord’s Table – Spirituality, Liturgy and Leadership

26/05/2026

This course is designed for adults who are responsible for guiding, training, and accompanying altar servers within the parish. It aims to deepen their understanding of the important role they play in forming young people who serve at the altar and participate closely in the Church’s liturgy.

The programme offers both spiritual and practical formation. Participants will reflect on the meaning of liturgical service, the importance of reverence and order in the sanctuary, and the responsibility of fostering a spirit of prayer, discipline, and commitment among altar servers. Attention will also be given to effective methods of training, leadership, communication, and age-appropriate formation.

Leaders, trainers, parish helpers who have been assigned by the parish priest to take care of altar servers 

Target Audience Age: 16+

The course will take place on Wednesdays between 6:00pm – 8:00pm at

Ta’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, Mosta

DateSession
7th April 2027More Than Supervision: The Vocation of the Parish Helper with Servers
14th April 2027The Spiritual World of the Child: How Children Experience God
21st April 2027Learning from Children: What Their Faith Teaches Adult Believers
28th April 2027Fostering a spirit of Prayer and Reverence in the Servers
5th May 2027Nurturing Vocations for Priestly, Religious or Married life among the Servers
12th May 2027Ideas on Formation and Activities for Altar Servers

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 a 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 an 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.