Zen and Contemplation: “Raum für spirituelle Wege Berlin”

For a successful cooperation between schools and spiritual centres, the following questions will be discussed: What contribution can the cooperation make to philosophical education in primary and secondary schools? In what way can the learning space support the goals of philosophical education, such as strengthening judgement, using the example of a spiritual centre in Berlin, Raum für spirituelle Wege Berlin (Space for Spiritual Paths Berlin)? What suggestions can a spiritual centre draw from the demands of the institution of school and the individual needs of young people? As an offer to answer these questions, a short overview of the self-understanding of Zen, contemplation and the Raum für spirituelle Wege is given. From the description of the practical experiences already gained with children and young people, opportunities and challenges will be derived, as well as summarizing recommendations for the three groups involved: students, educators and spiritual centers.