Theology

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.

Mark’s Good News

14/05/2026

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 five‑session course offers a concise yet enriching journey through the Gospel of Mark, guiding participants from an introductory overview into four key themes that shape Mark’s unique portrait of Jesus. Together, we explore the power of Jesus’ miracles, the depth and challenge of his parables, the demanding but transformative call to discipleship, and the stark, compelling drama of the Passion narrative. The course invites learners to engage both heart and mind as they encounter Mark’s urgent proclamation of the Good News.

This course is suitable for pastoral workers helping in the Ministry of the Word. It is also ideal for people who would like to delve deeper in knowledge about the Gospel of Mark and all Christians who would like to continue to invest in their relationship with God

Target Audience Age: 18+

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

Ta’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, Mosta.

Students have the option to join this course online via Zoom

DateSession
14th October 2026Introduction to the Gospel
21st October 2026Miracles in Mark
28th October 2026Parables in Mark
4th November 2026Discipleship in Mark
11th November 2026The Passion in Mark

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.

A Merciful Heart and Mind (in a Parish context)

12/05/2026

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 course introduces diaconia as the Church’s mission of service within parish life. Participants will explore practical and concrete ways of responding to human need through charity, solidarity, and pastoral care. The course equips participants with tools to plan, coordinate, and sustain parish-based diaconia rooted in Gospel values and lived faith.

All interested but especially Diakonia Pastoral Workers in a parish context.

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Wednesdays from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Ta’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, Mosta

Students can join online via Zoom

DateSession
2nd September 2026Diaconia as one of the four pillars of the Catholic faith
9th September 2026Diaconia as an integral part of the life of the Saints 
16th September 2026Hand of Mercy: examples of diaconia in the Church in Malta
23rd SeptemberBoundaries and Mercy in Real Life
30th September6 – 7pm – Co-Responsibility and Working Together in the Parish
7 – 8pm – Building a merciful parish. 

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.

Running, Returning, Renewed: A Journey Through Jonah

12/05/2026

This verse‑by‑verse study of the Book of Jonah examines the text in its historical, literary, and theological context. Participants will analyse Jonah’s call, his resistance, the narrative’s use of irony, the response of the sailors and the Ninevites, and God’s final challenge to the prophet. The course also considers how Jonah is referenced in the New Testament to understand how early Christian interpretation engaged with this story. The aim is to provide a clear, structured exploration of the book’s themes, its portrayal of divine mercy and human reluctance, and its ongoing relevance for readers today.

This course is suitable for pastoral workers helping in the Ministry of the Word. It is also ideal for people who would like to delve deeper in knowledge about Jonah and all Christians who would like to continue to invest in their relationship with God.

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Wednesdays from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Ta’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, Mosta

Students can join online via Zoom

DateSession
8th July 2026Jonah 1-2
15th July 2026Jonah 3-4
22nd July 2026Jonah in the NT

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.

Holy Communion: Continuing the Journey

16/05/2025

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/.

Building on Introduction to Holy Communion, this course aims to explore the Holy Eucharist in greater depth as the source and summit of Christian life. It will delve into the scriptural foundations of the sacrament, such as the Emmaus story, while appreciating Eucharistic themes in classical paintings and sacred music.

Participants will also discover how the Eucharist transcends Sunday worship, inspiring daily life and social justice, and enriching their ministry.

  • Extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion who provide a service during church masses, in residential elderly homes or homebound sick persons.
  • Those who wish to learn to appreciate more the sacrament of Holy Communion.
  • Those who are starting their service as extraordinary ministers.

Please Note: Doing this course does not entitle the student to become an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion. Extraordinary ministers are chosen by the parish priests.

Target Audience Age: 18+

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 Emmaus Narrative
  • The Eucharist in Sacred Art
  • The Eucharist in Sacred Music
  • The Eucharist – the spirituality of the ministry
  • Living the Mass

This course has one exit certificate options:

1. Certificate of Participation

Students will receive a Certificate of Participation upon completing all recordings and successfully passing a short online assessment.

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.

It is suggested that applicants complete the ‘Introduction to Holy Communion’ course before enrolling in this course.

Growing in the Franciscan Way

13/05/2025   Various

This course offers a deepening exploration of Franciscan spirituality through key themes and figures that shaped the Franciscan movement. Building on the foundations of St Francis’ life and teachings, participants will engage with the spiritual journeys of St Clare and the 2nd Order, the emergence of the 3rd Order, and the lived experience of Franciscan values in contemporary life. Special focus will be given to Francis’ relationship with the Eucharist, the Holy Spirit, and the Blessed Virgin Mary, while also reflecting on how the Franciscan vision continues to inspire efforts toward justice, peace, and care for the vulnerable. The course will highlight the relevance of the Franciscan charism as a model for renewal in the Church today.

This course is designed for Franciscan Collaborators and individuals interested to explore and deepen their knowledge in Franciscan Spirituality.

Target Audience Age: 18+

October 2025

Date and TimeSessionVenue
11th October
9:30am – 12:30pm		Clare and the Monastic Life
(the 2nd Order)		St. Clare’s Monastery
San Gwann
14th October
6:00pm – 8:00pm		Saint Francis and the
Blessed Virgin Mary		ĊAK, Birkirkara
21th October
6:00pm – 8:00pm		The Rules of St. Clare
and the 3rd Order		ĊAK, Birkirkara
28th October
6:00pm – 8:00pm		The Inspiration of Saint Francis;
a model for the Church		ĊAK, Birkirkara

November 2025

4th November
6:00pm – 8:00pm		The 3rd Order and the
Secular Franciscan Order		ĊAK, Birkirkara
8th November
9:30am – 12:30pm		SeminarConvent of the Capuchins,
Kalkara
11th November
6:00pm – 8:00pm		Social Communication and the
Franciscan Spirituality		ĊAK, Birkirkara
18th November
6:00pm – 8:00pm		St Francis and the EucharistĊAK, Birkirkara
25th November
6:00pm – 8:00pm		The role of the Holy Spirit in the life of
Saint Francis		ĊAK, Birkirkara

December 2025

2nd December
6:00pm – 8:00pm		The Franciscan ideal for more just social systemsĊAK, Birkirkara
9th December
6:00pm – 8:00pm		Important figures inspired
by Saint Francis		ĊAK, Birkirkara

January 2026

17th January
9am – 12:30pm		Closing SeminarBurmarrad Parish House

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 a presentation.

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.

  • 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+

Students have the option to join this course online via Zoom

Session
Gospel According to Mark
Gospel According to Matthew
Gospel According to Luke
The Two-Source Hypothesis
The 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.

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+

Students have the option to join this course online via Zoom

Session
Praying with Nature and Music
Praying with Art
Praying with Scripture
Devotional Prayer
Praying 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.

Introduction to 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/.

The aim of this course is to provide participants with a foundational understanding of the place of prayer in the Catholic tradition. Rather than offering a manual or handbook on how to pray, this course will serve as a springboard for exploring prayer within Christianity. Participants will be challenged to consider what it means to see themselves as persons of prayer, deepening their spiritual practice and enriching their faith experience.

  • 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+

This course will be offered from October 2024

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:

  • What is Prayer?
  • The Universal Call to Prayer
  • Prayer in the Old Testament: Models, Advice and Material
  • Prayer in the New Testament: Models, Advice and Material
  • Prayer Times and Environments
  • Praying together and for others
  • The Mass: The Ultimate Prayer
  • Aids to Prayer
  • Leading a Life of Prayer
  • Important Aspects of Prayer

This course has one exit certificate option:

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 pass from short multiple-choice exam.

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 Sacred Scriptures

16/05/2024

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/.

The Bible is not a single work, but a library of books that, while sharing the same divine authorship, differ greatly in their styles, history, cultural background, themes, and interpretation.

Through this course, students can expect to develop a basic understanding of why and how the Bible came to be, considering its different sources, transmission, redaction, consolidation, and intentions.

By integrating their newly acquired knowledge of the Bible’s history and the roles of divine inspiration and human cooperation in its creation, students will be able to interpret Biblical passages with greater depth, meaning, and truth. They will also learn to recognize and avoid common errors in Scriptural interpretation. Above all, they will grow in their passion for God as present in His Word.

  • Pastoral Workers involved in the 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 Sacred Scripture.

Target Audience Age: 18+

Students have the option to join this course online via Zoom

Session
Canonicity
Inspiration
History of the Old Testament
History of the New Testament
Hermeneutics

This course has three exit certificate options:

1. Certificates 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

The student will receive a Certificate of Achievement when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course, pass from 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.