An Investigation of Spiritual Well-Being and the Integration of Religious Practices in the Lives of Religious Education Students

The study examines the role of religious practices in fostering the spiritual well-being and holistic development of students undergoing religious education formation. By exploring their experiences and the practices they integrate into their lives, the research aims to bridge the gap in understanding how these elements contribute to their overall formation. The study utilized a phenomenological design conducted at the Bukidnon Institute of Catechetics (BIC), involving ten purposively selected participants. Data were gathered through focus group discussions and analyzed using narrative and thematic analysis, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the participants' lived experiences. The study revealed that spiritual practices such as prayer, Mass, retreats, and community engagement significantly contribute to the student's spiritual well-being and holistic personal development. Themes of interpersonal relationships, moral grounding, and perseverance highlight the transformative role of religious activities in nurturing resilience and faith integration. These findings emphasize the essential role of structured spiritual programs in supporting the well-being of religious education students.