Forming Family Life Ministers for Africa.
PPIFA offers comprehensive professional formation that integrates theology, psychology, and pastoral practice—preparing priests, religious, and lay pastoral agents to serve African families effectively.
3 Thematic Areas
A comprehensive curriculum
Diploma in Counselling & Family Ministry.
Our flagship professional certification equips you with the theological foundation and practical skills to serve the Church and families across Africa.
Diploma in Counselling & Family Ministry
Our flagship certificate program combines three integrated thematic areas—Theology & Spirituality, Psycho-Socio Training, and Professional Development—to form counsellor-therapists who can serve the African family in the tradition of Venerable Patrick Peyton.
Modules
3 Thematic Areas
Eligibility
Bachelor's Degree
Intake
Up to 15 Participants
Award
Certificate of Completion
- Comprehensive curriculum spanning theology, psychology, and professional skills
- Supervised practicum with real client cases
- Personal counselling and group therapy integration
- Culturally adapted to the African family context
Three Thematic Areas of Formation.
Our curriculum covers three integrated areas—preparing family life ministers to serve with theological depth, professional skill, and practical wisdom.
Theology & Spirituality
A foundational track covering Christian theology, Scripture, Mariology, and the Charism of Father Patrick Peyton.
- Introduction to Christian Theology
- Introduction to Spirituality & Prayer
- Psychology of Religion
- Christian Anthropology
- Theology of the Church on Marriage & Family
- Introduction to Scriptures
- Fundamentals of Interreligious Dialogue
- Marian Theology (Mariology)
- Spirituality & Tradition of Holy Cross (CSC)
- The Charism of Father Patrick Peyton
- Theology of the Body
- Sacrament of Marriage — Civil & Canonical
Psycho-Socio Training
Practical, evidence-based training equipping counsellors to address real challenges facing African families today.
- Ethical Practice in Clinical & Pastoral Counselling
- Foundations of Counselling Theories
- Parenting Techniques: Clinical & Pastoral
- Human Sexuality
- Addictions: Assessment & Recovery
- Family Communication
- Safeguarding & Child Protection
- Supporting Families in Crisis & Transition
Professional Development
Skills for ministry leaders, educators, and pastoral agents to build sustainable family ministry programs.
- Core Faith-Based Pedagogy
- Core Faith-Based Andragogy
- Core Educational Technology & Digital Literacy
- Core Servant Leadership in Ministry
- Core Conflict Resolution & Mediation
- Core Community Mobilization & Advocacy
- Core Church & Communication (Media)
- Core Financial Literacy & Stewardship
- Elective Intercultural Leadership
- Elective Project Design & Grant Writing
- Elective Small Business Development
Beyond the Diploma.
In addition to the flagship diploma, PPIFA offers specialized certificates and ongoing formation opportunities for pastoral agents at every stage.
Marriage Preparation & Enrichment
A specialized certificate for counsellors, pastors, and community leaders guiding couples toward healthy, lasting marriages—integrated with CANA, Marriage Encounter, and Retrouvaille.
Learn MoreLeadership of Family Ministry
A focused program for priests, religious, and lay leaders coordinating family life ministry at the diocesan, parish, or community level.
Learn MoreAddictions & Family Recovery
Specialized training on supporting individuals and families through addiction recovery—led by our addictions specialists.
Learn MoreSafeguarding & Child Protection
Pastoral training on safeguarding minors and vulnerable adults—essential for every family life minister and Church leader.
Learn MoreYour Path to Formation.
Our admissions process is designed to be clear and supportive—helping us get to know you and helping you discern your call.
Submit Application
Complete the online application form with your personal, academic, and ministry background.
Document Review
Submit your academic transcripts, references, and a letter of recommendation from your Church authority.
Interview
Participate in an online or in-person interview with our admissions team to discuss your call and expectations.
Admission Decision
Receive your admission decision. Accepted candidates will receive enrollment details and orientation information.
Ready to Answer the Call?
Join the next cohort of family life ministers being formed at PPIFA. Applications are now open for the upcoming academic year.