Nurturing Children's Spirituality: Insights for Catholic Schools in the Philippines

Julius Anthony Porqueriño

Nurturing Children's Spirituality

Insights for Catholic Schools in the Philippines

Authors

Julius Anthony Porqueriño

Keywords:

Children, Children's Spirituality, Nurturing Spirituality, Catholic Schools

Abstract

Catholic schools in the Philippines give due importance to children’s spiritual development. However, initiatives that support children's spirituality often emphasize a distinct Catholic formation, potentially overlooking students from diverse religious backgrounds or worldviews. This article critically examines scholarship on child- ren’s spirituality to propose an alternative approach. By exploring themes of space, time, body, relationships, and agency, the article identifies practical strategies for nurturing spirituality broadly and inclusively. These strategies aim to create environments that support the spiritual growth of all children, regardless of their religious traditions or worldviews.

Author Biography

Julius Anthony Porqueriño

Julius Anthony L. Porqueriño is currently a PhD researcher and an FWO fellow for fundamental research at the Faculty of the Theology and Religious Studies, in KU Leuven, Belgium. His research project involves working with religious education teachers in developing principles for a religious education that responds to the context of the Philippines. He obtained his Masters in Theological Studies at the Ateneo de Manila University in 2018 and his Research Masters: Masters of Advanced Studies in Theology and Religion from KU Leuven in 2021. His areas of research include children's spirituality, postcolonial practical theology, and religious education.

Nurturing Children's Spirituality: Insights for Catholic Schools in the Philippines