A influência dos exercícios espirituais de Santo Inácio na formação continuada de educadores

Abstract

This research examines how practicing the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius can directly impact the integral development of educators, positively impacting their training, pedagogical practice, and emotional well-being within the school environment, as well as their personal lives. The theoretical framework discusses the foundations of the Spiritual Exercises, Ignatian pedagogy, and the integral formation of educators in light of the values of the Society of Jesus, drawing on authors such as Klein, Loyola, and Bauman. The contributions of the Jesuit Education Network and the transformative role of spirituality in teaching practice are also discussed. The mixed-methods study was conducted with 28 educators from Colégio Catarinense, revealing that most recognize the positive effects of the Spiritual Exercises on their teaching practices, making them more effective and humane, in line with Ignatian Pedagogy and contemporary challenges. Personal benefits were also observed, including increased emotional resilience and a better work-life balance. The data reinforce that the Spiritual Exercises are a relevant training tool, aligned with Ignatian Pedagogy, contributing to a more humane and conscious teaching practice. Participants suggest expanding the offerings and creating spaces for sharing, integrating this experience more continuously into the school routine. Although the results indicate significant benefits, the study also identifies obstacles to implementation, such as lack of time, resistance to practices that require greater spiritual depth, and the need for specific training to integrate the Spiritual Exercises into the educational process.