Dr Marian de Souza at the book launch.

Handbook for Spirituality, Care and Wellbeing launched at Melbourne Campus

Dr Marian de Souza, Senior Lecturer in Religious Education at Australian Catholic University's (ACU) Ballarat Campus, recently took on the role of coordinating editor of The International Handbook of Education for Spirituality, Care and Wellbeing. Professor Peta Goldburg, Head of Religious Education, launched the book at the University's Melbourne Campus last week.

Dr de Souza's co-editors were Professor Leslie J Francis of Warwick University, Dr James O'Higgins-Norman of Dublin City University and Professor Daniel G Scott of the University of Victoria, Canada.

Dr de Souza said The International Handbook contains chapters from 66 leading analysts and educators on topics including spirituality, care and wellbeing.

"The chapters explore the dynamic relationship between education and wellbeing. It examines the theory underpinning the practice of education in different societies where spirituality and care are believed to be at the heart of all educational experiences," said Dr de Souza. "The book recognises that, regardless of the context or type of educational experience, education is a caring activity in which the development of the whole person - body, mind and spirit - is a central aim for teachers and educators in both formal and informal learning."