The Difficult Paths of Spirituality in Education: Between Secular Institutionalism and Informal Practices for Personal Selfimprovement

Abstract

This present article, presented in the form of a scholarly essay, explores the role of non-formal education in bridging a significant gap within formal education, specifically concerning the introduction to various spiritual teachings and the potential for their practical application. It delves into the interplay between personal development, spiritual growth, and religious devotion. The article endeavors to systematically outline the reasons behind the limitations and deficiencies within formal education when it comes to nurturing an individual's spiritual development. It highlights the wealth of diverse content that non-formal education offers in the realm of spiritual doctrines and practices. Moreover, the article scrutinizes the challenges and complexities faced by individuals seeking to engage in spiritual disciplines when establishing criteria for evaluating the authenticity of the provided training, as well as the competence and ethical standards of their instructors. It pays special attention to the role of communities as the nurturing environment for learning, juxtaposing the favorable aspects with the potential pitfalls that may surface within the dynamics of group processes.