19 may 2025

Balancing Pastoral Ministry and Theological Research

Episode 3: An interview with Bon’Avantur Rafanomezantsoa, a Malagasy priest whose intellectual and pastoral journey now continues through doctoral research grounded in real-world experience.

A Chance Encounter That Changed Everything

“A Dominican Brother gave me a flyer at a diocesan gathering. That’s how I discovered Domuni.”

I first heard about Domuni when a Dominican Brother handed me a flyer during a diocesan gathering of clergy in Réunion. Until then, all my academic experience had been in traditional in-person settings, and I had never considered distance learning.

But Domuni turned out to be an ideal fit for my situation as a priest already active in pastoral ministry. It gave me the chance to pursue serious theological studies without stepping away from my mission.

Strong Academic Foundations, Open Horizons

“The courses I took for my Master’s helped me explore entirely new perspectives.”

The courses I followed as part of my Master’s in Theology were rich in content, well designed, and opened up new perspectives that I had never considered before.

Throughout the programme, I was well supported by both my academic advisor and my thesis supervisor. Their combined guidance helped me stay on track and successfully complete the work.

Practical Tools for Ministry and Research

“This programme strengthened both my academic skills and my pastoral work.”

Thanks to this online learning experience, I developed strong academic writing skills, especially in the structure, formatting, and presentation of my research work.

Since I focused on pastoral theology, my studies directly contributed to my mission as a parish priest. My thesis explored how the Church engages with the social, political, and economic situation in Madagascar.

I’ve already shared a few printed copies of my thesis with our local formation house, so that younger students can draw inspiration for their own research projects.

Looking Ahead to the Next Chapter

“This isn’t the end of the journey—the next step is a PhD.”

Earning my Master’s degree was just one stage in a larger journey. To put the proposals from my research into practice in Madagascar, I know I need to keep going deeper.

I’ve already identified a core research question and have started the process of applying for a PhD. I’ve submitted my doctoral proposal to the graduate school board, and I’m now waiting for their response.

A Programme Worth Sharing

“This kind of training is ideal for priests and lay leaders alike.”

I strongly recommend Domuni to other priests, as it allows you to combine high-level theological training with your ongoing pastoral commitments.

It’s also a valuable opportunity for lay people and Church leaders who want to pursue continuing education at a serious academic level—without having to step away from their responsibilities.

Staying the Course with Motivation and Method

“You don’t need lots of free time—just start, and move forward step by step.”

My advice to future students is simple: be motivated, be willing to persevere, and start even if your schedule is full. You don’t have to wait for the perfect moment.

Domuni provides a clear and structured learning method that’s well suited to online study. Once you’ve grasped the foundational tools, it becomes entirely possible to move forward with confidence and consistency—without pressure, but with real academic rigor.