Home⇛The Trinitian Researcher⇛vol. 13 no. 1 (2025)

The Relationship between Religious Well-Being and Existential Well-Being of Gen Z Students in Episcopal Mission Schools in the Cordillera Administrative Region

Naliza Balaki-Beswilan

Discipline: Education

 

Abstract:

This descriptive quantitative study explored the connection between Religious Well-Being (RWB) and Existential Well-Being (EWB) among Generation Z students attending Episcopal mission schools in the Cordillera Administrative Region. This study sought to understand how religious life shapes the overall well-being and life fulfillment of Gen Z students, aiming to provide practical data for institutional planning. The research confirmed that students reported consistently high overall levels of both RWB and EWB. Crucially, the data demonstrated a strong, statistically significant positive correlation between RWB and EWB, showing that religious faith provides a solid operational framework for students to build purpose, resilience, and clarity in the face of life’s challenges. However, the analysis revealed subtle distinctions that require attention: while faith strongly provided meaning, students reported lower levels of daily self-satisfaction and inner peace. Likewise, high EWB scores masked a complex finding: students felt less strongly about long-term fulfillment, optimism, and overall life satisfaction. These findings suggest that while the current curriculum provides a strong spiritual foundation for students, it does not fully address their everyday emotional and psychological needs, creating a gap in support for their overall well-being. These findings point to the critical role of religious beliefs in Gen Z’s meaning-making process and call Episcopal mission schools to urgently adopt a holistic wellness model. Schools should promptly design targeted curriculum enhancements and support programs that address emotional fulfillment and foster students’ overall existential well-being. This research provides actionable insights to improve well-being outcomes in faith-based education across the Philippines.



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