Personal encounters with children in an informal settlement : exploring spirituality

Abstract

This article explores the factors that contribute to the children living in Zama Zama informal settlement’s spiritual development. Postfoundational practical theology and the narrative approach function as paradigm and methodology. Themes and/or discourses like power, poverty, nutrition, health and school enrolment were identified. The faith development theory is discussed, as well as a reflection on children’s spirituality. The research shows that the faith community, crèche and other partners play a crucial role in the spiritual development of the children. INTRADISCIPLINARY AND/OR INTERDISCIPLINARY IMPLICATIONS : This article explores the factors that contribute to the children living in Zama Zama informal settlement’s spiritual development. Postfoundational practical theology and the narrative approach function as paradigm and methodology. Themes and/or discourses like power, poverty, nutrition, health and school enrolment were identified. The faith development theory is discussed, as well as a reflection on children’s spirituality. The research shows that the faith community, crèche and other partners play a crucial role in the spiritual development of the children. ntradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: This study was performed in the field of practical theology. The article is interdisciplinary, covering the fields of religion, psychology, social work, sociology and health studies.ed in the field of practical theology. The article is interdisciplinary, covering the fields of religion, psychology, social work, sociology and health studies.