NEW! Short Learning Programmes
AFMTC is excited to announce that brand new Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) are here, designed for real-world ministry and impact! Step into purpose with our new, powerful courses, designed to equip, train, and empower the Christian believer at the grassroots level to serve within their assembly and community.
- Practical. Purpose-driven. Powerful.
- Online Distance Learning. Accessible. Flexible.
- Meant for every Christian believer serving in their Assembly and Community.
AFMTC Short Learning Programmes are non-accredited, affordable courses intended to equip and upskill the Christian believer serving on a grassroots level in his/her church and community. Every believer has a role to play in the Body of Christ. AFMTC is here to equip the church member to serve with boldness and clarity.
The Short Learning Programmes are scheduled to run in the following 3-month cycles annually:
- Semester 1: Starts 23 FEB 2026 (for 3 months)
- Semester 2: Starts 20 JUL 2026 (for 3 months)
All Short Learning Programmes are non-accredited and presented in English. You will need a reliable computer and internet connection to be part of this exciting virtual learning experience. AFMTC invites you to explore the options below and register for the Short Learning Programme that works best for you and your needs or area of ministry.
Quick Course Information:
This is a non-accredited short course.
Course Presenter: Ms. Karen Massyn
Laying Strong Foundations for Ministry to Children. | Suitable for anyone working with children in a school or church setting.
The course duration is 3 months. | Online, self-paced learning.
Estimated Study Time: Approximately 30-35 hours in total.
Language of instruction: English.
Virtual Learning: A Computer & Internet Connection are required.
Participants can study while actively serving in ministry.
📖 Cost: Discounted offer at R665 p/p – until 25 March 2026. After 25 March, the normal fee of R950 p/p applies.
📖 A Certified copy of your ID (not older than 3 months) will be required.
Course Description:
Children’s Ministry Basics is a foundational short course designed to equip individuals who serve, or feel called to serve, in children’s ministry within a church or educational context. The course introduces participants to the biblical, developmental, and practical foundations of ministry to children. Participants will explore why children matter to God, how children grow and learn, and how to engage them in meaningful, age-appropriate ways that nurture lifelong faith.
This course was developed for the AFM Children’s Ministry to help build a skilled force of leaders who will serve with excellence and minister to children using captivating and relevant teaching methods. Its purpose is to strengthen the broader ministry training pathway sanctioned by the National Children’s Ministry Forum. The course emphasises identity, calling, and healthy ministry posture, helping leaders see children not as an add-on to ministry but as active participants in God’s story.
Through a combination of teaching, reflection, and practical application, participants gain the understanding and confidence needed to serve children effectively and build healthy ministry environments. CM101 serves as the entry point into the Children’s Ministry Leadership Pathway, preparing leaders for further development through CM102 and CM103.
Course Layout – Study Units:
📝 Study Unit 1 – Big Vision, Little Footsteps: Why Children’s Ministry Matters
In this unit, we’ll explore the why behind children’s ministry—its value, urgency, and biblical foundation. Learn why ministry to children isn’t a side program, but a strategic, frontline mission that impacts the future of the Church, our communities, and our nation. Discover your role in shaping lifelong faith and advocating for the next generation.
📝 Study Unit 2 – Through Their Eyes: Child Development & Behaviour
Before we can teach effectively, we need to understand the unique minds and hearts in front of us. This unit covers foundational stages of development (especially before age seven), learning preferences, and emotional needs. You’ll learn how to create an environment where every child can grow spiritually, emotionally, and socially.
📝 Study Unit 3 – The Most Powerful Hour of the Week
Sundays should be the highlight of a child’s week. This hands-on unit explores how to create engaging, Christ-centred experiences that truly matter. From building nurturing relationships, leading kids in worship, and telling Bible stories in fun, interactive ways, to guiding them in applying spiritual truths and connecting ministry to the home, this is where Sunday ministry comes alive!
📝 Study Unit 4 – You Can’t Do it Alone
Children’s ministry was never meant to be carried by one person. In this unit, we explore the importance of healthy self-leadership, shared responsibility, and sustainable ministry practices that support both leaders and the children they serve. Participants are encouraged to reflect on their own leadership posture, personal rhythms, and the importance of building habits that protect both their spiritual health and ministry effectiveness. The unit emphasises that strong children’s ministries are built when leaders serve together, support one another, and share the responsibility of ministry.
📝 Study Unit 5 – Healthy Ministry Needs Strong Bones: Policies that Protect
A healthy children’s ministry requires more than passion and creativity—it also requires responsible structures that protect both children and leaders. In this unit, participants are introduced to the foundations of safe ministry practices and responsible oversight within children’s ministry environments. Rather than focusing on detailed legal frameworks, this unit provides an accessible overview of the safeguarding principles that help ministries operate with integrity and accountability.
📝 Study Unit 6 –Discipleship Beyond Sunday
Children’s ministry is not only about what happens during a Sunday session. In this final unit, participants are guided to reflect on how the principles learned throughout the course can be applied within their own ministry context. The focus shifts from theory to practical implementation, helping leaders think intentionally about how they can strengthen and support children’s ministry within their church or community.
📝 FINAL ASSIGNMENT
The final assignment combines theory with practical application. By the end of the course, each participant will create a customizable workbook or ministry blueprint—ready to launch or strengthen children’s ministry in their church or community setting. It’s not just an assessment; it’s your next step in ministry.
The assignment will help participants:
- Reflect on what they have learned throughout the course.
- Apply biblical principles to their own ministry context.
- Develop practical tools for use in their ministry.
- Build a clear plan for strengthening children’s ministry in their church.
This ensures that participants leave the course not only with knowledge, but with a practical plan they can implement immediately in ministry.
What Leaders are Discovering – Testimonials:
“I used to approach worship like adult worship with children’s songs. I now see that children need intentional space, not rushed moments.”
“When I focused on storytelling, engagement increased immediately—especially with younger children.”
“This course helped me realise my calling, even though I was hesitant at first.”
“Before I changed my lessons, I had to change my posture.”
“If we don’t teach children about God’s works, other voices will teach them instead.”
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of CM101, participants will be able to:
Quick Course Information:
This is a non-accredited short course.
Course Presenter: Prof. Chris de Wet
Suitable for anyone who wants to deepen their knowledge and skills for studying God’s Word.
The course duration is 3 months.
Language of instruction: English.
Virtual Learning: A Computer & Internet Connection are required.
📖 Cost: R950 per participant.
📖 A Certified copy of your ID (not older than 3 months) will be required.
Course Description:
- Ready to move from simply reading the Bible to truly understanding it? Principles of Bible Study 101 is designed to take you deeper into the heart, structure, and spiritual richness of Scripture. Whether you’re new to Bible study or longing to grow, this course will equip you with the tools, insights, and confidence to explore God’s Word with clarity and depth.
- In just a few sessions, you’ll discover what the Bible is, how it came to be, and how to navigate its powerful story. We’ll guide you through the best resources for study, how to prepare your heart and mind, and practical steps for meaningful engagement with the text. Best of all, you’ll learn how to apply what you’ve discovered and share it with others.
- Whether you are a Bible study leader, a teacher, or simply passionate about the Word, this course is for you.
- Principles of Bible Study will help you move beyond just reading the Bible to truly studying it with depth and insight. You’ll explore what the Bible is, its nature and function, and the grand story it tells. You’ll be introduced to tools and resources for study, learn how to prepare for meaningful engagement with the text, and follow practical steps to apply and share your discoveries.
Course Layout – Explore the Study Units:
- What is the Bible?
- The Bible in a Nutshell
- Tools and Resources for Bible Study
- Preparing for Bible Study
- Practical Steps
- Applying and Sharing Your Studies in Scripture
📝 OUTCOME
Gain the knowledge and skills to study, understand, and responsibly apply the Bible with depth and confidence.
Quick Course Information:
This is a non-accredited short course.
Course Presenter: Dr Alta Vrey
Suitable for anyone married to a pastor or interested in gaining new insights into the life of a spouse married to a pastor.
The course duration is 3 months.
Language of instruction: English.
Virtual Learning: A Computer & Internet Connection are required.
📖 Cost: R950 per participant.
📖 A Certified copy of your ID (not older than 3 months) will be required.
Course Description:
- Welcome to the Pastor’s Spouse Basics course! This course is specifically designed to equip and support individuals who are married to a pastor with the foundational knowledge they need to effectively support their spouse and fulfil their calling. Throughout this course, we will delve into key topics that are essential for pastors’ spouses not only to survive but to thrive in a ministry context.
- Being a pastor’s spouse comes with a unique set of emotional challenges, responsibilities, and expectations rarely spoken about. You will be guided through a journey of rediscovery and encouragement to grow in your role and calling. You face demands from ministry, family, and sometimes external work, all while navigating a path that few truly understand. You will be encouraged to first rediscover and strengthen your personal relationship with Jesus. From that foundation, we’ll explore how to build a healthy, Biblical marriage, parent effectively through various stages of your children’s development, nurture meaningful friendships, and embrace both the joys and wounds they may bring. Along the way, you’ll receive Biblical teaching and practical tools to help you grow in confidence, clarity, and peace.
- We will also look at your role within the Church family, helping you understand how to serve in a way that honours your unique identity and calling. Our primary focus will be on developing your personal spiritual life, supporting the health and well-being of your family, and discovering your place in ministering to God’s people.
- This course is a safe space for growth, healing, and empowerment created just for you as the pastor’s spouse. Whether you’re just stepping into ministry or have been walking this road for years, this course provides a nurturing environment to help you thrive personally, relationally, and spiritually.
Course Layout: Study Units
Study Unit 1: You and Jesus
Introduction to the Course: Overview of course content and expectations. Your Identity in Christ, understanding your primary calling as a child of God. Separating your personal identity from your spouse’s role in ministry. Practical strategies for maintaining a vibrant spiritual life.
Study Unit 2: You and Your Marriage
Understanding God’s design for a healthy marriage in ministry. Setting boundaries and creating space for connection. Navigating tension with grace and truth. Supporting one another under ministry pressure.
Study Unit 3: You and Your Family
Parenting in a Ministry Context. Recognizing the emotional and spiritual needs of your children. Parenting through different developmental stages with wisdom. Protecting Family Time and Unity. Balancing ministry and family life. Building a strong, Christ-centred home.
Study Unit 4: You and Your Friends
The Power of Godly Friendships. Building healthy, life-giving relationships inside and outside the Church. Identifying trustworthy and safe people. Navigating Hurt and Disappointment. Processing betrayal, gossip, and broken trust. Healing and maintaining emotional well-being.
Study Unit 5: You and God’s Family (The Church)
Understanding Your Role in the Church. Clarifying expectations vs. God’s calling. Embracing your spiritual gifts and unique contributions. Serving from a Healthy Place. Avoiding resentment. Loving the Church while protecting your personal boundaries.
Study Unit 6: You and Courage to Endure
Embracing the long view of faithfulness in ministry. Encouragement for seasons of weariness and challenge. Commissioning: Moving forward with courage, identity, and hope.
📝 OUTCOME
By the end of this course, participants will have a clearer understanding of their personal identity in Christ, renewed strength in their marriage and family relationships, and a healthy perspective on their role within the church. They will be better equipped to set boundaries, nurture spiritual and emotional well-being, and serve with confidence and clarity.
Quick Course Information:
This is a non-accredited short course.
Course Presenter: Pastor Danie Roodt
Suitable for anyone interested in learning more about leadership in the context of the local church.
The course duration is 3 months.
Language of instruction: English.
Virtual Learning: A Computer & Internet Connection are required.
📖 Cost: R950 per participant.
📖 A Certified copy of your ID (not older than 3 months) will be required.
Course Description:
Welcome to the Assembly Leaders course! We focus on developing your leadership with Hebrews 13:7 (ESV) forming the basis of our discussion on leadership:
“Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.”
A WORD worth listening to – carriers of the Gospel message.
A LIFE worth following – character and integrity.
A FAITH worth imitating – vision and Spirit empowerment.
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1. Understand the biblical importance of ministry to childrenAnd recognise the strategic role children play in God’s Kingdom.
- 2. Recognise key developmental stages and learning preferences in children
Enabling leaders to engage children in ways that are appropriate to their age and level of understanding.
- 3. Design engaging and age-appropriate ministry experiences
By preparing interactive Bible stories, leading children in meaningful worship and prayer, and helping them understand and respond to God’s Word.
- 4. Create ministry environments
Where children and leaders feel safe, welcomed, and valued, fostering trust, belonging, and participation within the children’s ministry space.
- 5. Serve with confidence and a healthy ministry posture
Developing personal habits that support spiritual health, life balance, and sustainable ministry while sharing responsibility with others to avoid burnout.
Course Presenter:
Karen has served in children’s ministry since 1988 and currently leads the National Children’s Ministry Department at Doxa Deo. She is passionate about equipping leaders to help children discover their identity in Christ and grow in a living relationship with God.
Karen has been involved in children’s ministry curriculum development since 1994, contributing to initiatives within the AFM and other networks such as UCSA. She has trained leaders across South Africa, Africa, and internationally, and serves as a consultant to churches seeking to strengthen and grow their children’s ministries.
A writer of curriculum, training materials, productions, and books, Karen’s work focuses on equipping leaders with practical tools and biblical insight to disciple the next generation effectively.