Between Church and Youth Characterization of Religious Experiences in Youth People Connected to Ignatian Spirituality in the Secondary-to-University Transition

Abstract

In Chile, as well as globally, younger societal groups have demonstrated a consistent flux of cultural and religious changes. This situation challenges the way they engage with traditional pastoral proposals, and the extent to which these proposals have the capacity to address the demands of their transition from secondary to higher education—a significant period for vocational and religious exploration. This article aims to provide categories derived from a qualitative research commissioned by the Society of Jesus. The research sought to characterize how young adults, in their initial years of university education, interact with pastoral initiatives rooted in Ignatian spirituality in Chile. Through interviews and focus groups, several themes emerged: the significance of spiritual and service-oriented spaces, political and social reflection within this spirituality, the influence of Ignatian formation on vocational discernment and career choices, shifts in time allocation and religious involvement during this transitional phase, and the associated challenges. Notably, communal bonds, reflective practices, and acts of service emerge as salient features of religious experience. The article concludes with discussions on relevant scholarly inquiries in the field and outlines future research prospects.