Lived Experiences of Selected High School Students in Integrating Spirituality as Core of the Curriculum in Franciscan Missionaries of Mary (FMM) Schools

The Franciscan Missionaries of Mary (FMM) have a long-standing legacy of offering Catholic education grounded in values such as love and reverence for God, truth and charity, ecological stewardship, and compassionate service towards the poor. This research was designed to investigate how such integration shapes the lived experiences of high school students in FMM schools. Specifically, it examined how students incorporate spirituality into their academics and activities and how such integration impacts their growth and relationships. Using a qualitative narrative approach, the study engaged 50 selected high school students and was led by Benson and Fisher’s spiritual frameworks and Waldrop’s body-mind-spirit connection theory. The findings revealed that the students were deeply aware of their spiritual growth. Their participation in academic and religious activities nurtured their character, shaped their purpose, and strengthened their relationships with themselves, others, the environment, and God. Despite their varied backgrounds, students regarded spirituality as the foundation and essential of their lives. Based on these insights, the study recommends enhancements to the academic programs, activities, and initiatives at FMM schools to deepen and sustain the spiritual formation of the youth, emphasizing that integrating spirituality into education is vital for holistic development and well-being. Keywords : academic, adolescence, formation, relationships, well-being, values