School of Theology for Laity Launched in Nigerian Catholic Diocese to Deepen Faith, Empower Lay Leaders

This realization inspired the Local Ordinary of Kano Diocese to convene a team of Priests to study how other Dioceses run lay formation programs. The outcome of that research is the newly launched School of Theology for the laity, he told ACI Africa.

“We would like a situation in which it is a program of different categories, some like renewal courses, others that will lead to diplomas. The emphasis is knowledge of basic elements of Christian theology, lay spirituality, and lay leadership in the Church,” Bishop Niyiring added.

According to him, “The school will run a diverse curriculum tailored to different educational backgrounds. Core subjects include Christian doctrines, scripture and biblical theology, sacramental theology, Church history, and lay spirituality.”

“There will also be teachings on Catholic virtues, theology of the sacraments, and contemporary issues in the Church. Classes will be held on weekends, primarily from Friday to Saturday, to accommodate working adults,” the 65-year-old Nigerian Catholic Church leader, who has been at the helm of Kano Diocese since his Episcopal Consecration in May 2008 told ACI Africa.

In another interview with ACI Africa during the Theology School launching, Sr. Lucy Gidado, one of the faculty members, said the program is not merely academic instruction but a holistic faith formation with a particular focus on the heart.

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“I see myself not only as a teacher, but as a formator. What we are doing in this school is more than just handing down Catholic knowledge. It is a formation that touches the heart." Sr. Gidado said.

The Nigerian member of Our Lady of Fatima Congregation (OLF) emphasized the transformational purpose of the initiative, noting that the goal is not only to educate but to shape individuals into better family members, leaders, and citizens.

“There are a lot of challenges in our Nigerian society today, which is why the Bishop feels it is very important that we give people this opportunity for ongoing formation. We desire that it will transform their lives and they will be better disciples of Jesus,” she said.

The school of Theology, the Catholic Sisteter went on to say, “is envisioned as a critical step toward reenergizing Catholic lay participation, especially in leadership roles.”

The program specifically targets members of lay associations such as the Catholic Women Organization (CWO), Catholic Men Organization (CMO), Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria (CYON), Catechists, Church council leaders, and youth ministers.

In an exclusive interview with ACI Africa, the Coordinator of the Theology School, Fr. Julian Okafor, reflected on the long-term impact expected from the training of the Laity.

“What we are expecting is a gradual process of enlightenment, especially of our leaders, through that enlightenment, their teaching in different groups, whether biblical study groups or Parish ministries, will improve,” Fr. Okafor said.

He explained that many lay leaders have gone through life without a deep understanding of the Catholic faith, often unknowingly spreading incorrect teachings.

“They didn’t know they were wallowing in ignorance in many areas, but with this school, we are hoping for transformation, first in the leaders and then in our communities,” the Nigerian Catholic Priest told ACI Africa on June 13.

He continued, “The program features 24 courses scheduled over a year. These include Moral Theology, Biblical Studies, Philosophy of Religion, Evangelization, Communication in the Modern Age, Church History, New Testament Theology, Family and Human Life, Fundamentalism, and Eschatology.”

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“The curriculum is tailored to meet the educational levels of various participants. Those with higher academic qualifications will work toward a Diploma in Theology, while others will earn a Certificate in Leadership and Evangelization,” the School Coordinator said.

Admission is open to all interested laypersons, including professionals and university graduates who, despite their secular knowledge, lack sufficient understanding of the Catholic tradition, he said.

“You might be a PhD holder in your profession, but that doesn’t mean you know your faith. This school is for anyone who wants to deepen their faith by knowing it in fact and practice.” Fr. Okafor told ACI Africa on June 13.

Abah Anthony John is a Nigerian Catholic journalist with passion for Church communication and media apostolate. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communication from Benue State University, Makurdi in Benue State Nigeria. He has a background in print, electronic and multi-media production.