Spiritual education: Ignatian inspirations

• Anna Królikowska ^[1]
  1. [1] Ignatianum University in Cracow
• Localización: Multidisciplinary journal of school education, ISSN-e 2543-8409, ISSN 2543-7585, Vol. 25, Nº. 1, 2024 (Ejemplar dedicado a: In search of spirituality and support in educational settings), págs. 11-28
• Idioma: inglés
• Enlaces
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• Resumen

  • Research objectives and problems:The holistic, integral approach to edu-cation requires the inclusion of the spiritual dimension in the educationalprocess. While theoretical discussions in pedagogy often reference spiritu-ality, it is typically absent or only marginally present in educational practice.The aim of this article is to highlight the necessity of incorporating spiritualeducation into the entire educational process for all participants. The analy-sis conducted here leads to the following questions: What potential does Ignatian pedagogy have in supporting the spiritual development of youngpeople? What role does the teacher play in this process when utilizing suchpedagogy? Research methods: The methods used include document analysis (sourcetexts and studies) across various scientific disciplines (e.g., psychology, the-ology, pedagogy), focusing on spirituality, spiritual education as a practice ofsupporting spiritual development, and Ignatian pedagogy.Structure of the article:The article begins with an introduction to the con-cepts of spirituality and spiritual development based on existing literature.It then outlines the general principles of spiritual education through thelens of Ignatian pedagogy.

    Research findings and their influence on the development of pedagog-ical science:Ignatian pedagogy, which grew out of the spirituality of theSpiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola, can effectively stimulate the spir-itual development of all participants of education. This pedagogy, based on the philosophy of cura personalis(care for the person in all dimensions),the practice of Ignatian spirituality-oriented education promotes the fulfil-ment of humanity in both individual and social aspects. It promotes the ed-ucation of individuals who are free, creative, self-reflective, and committedto serving others.Conclusions and/or recommendations:Spiritual education is crucial in nur-turing a mature, independent, and thoughtful individual with a meaning-ful life anchored in axiological, social, and cultural commitments. Thisprocess requires cultivating attentiveness and reflectiveness from an earlyage, which can be instilled in students by well-prepared teachers. Therefore,teacher training programs should ensure that future educators developthese competencies.