Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bethlehem (Agenzia Fides) - In the Holy Land, in the poor and afflicted city of Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus that is now split in two by a wall of separation, lies a Catholic academic institution for the formation of youth that continues to be a sign of hope for new generations: the University of Bethlehem. The University is founded and run by the Christian Brothers, and recently saw a class of over 500 Palestinian youth receive diplomas. The youth have been successful in reaching the academic quota, in spite of the existing obstacles of transportation restrictions and limitations on their rights and freedom caused by the military occupation and the wall of separation.
The recent graduates will join the ranks of the over 11,000 students who, over the years, have completed their studies at the institution and who are now prepared to make their own contribution to Palestinian society, dedicating themselves to the common good, led by Christian values and principles, ready to establish peace and justice through reconciliation.
The institute operates within a fairly difficult context, as far as Christians are concerned: in Bethlehem, the number of Christians is rapidly diminishing. In 1965, the majority of the population was Christian. Now, they are 12% of the population. In recent years, over 3,000 Christians have left the city due to lack of opportunities and economic, social, and religious difficulties. The mission of the University is to restore hope by offering professional training and opportunities for employment to the local people.
The University of Bethlehem celebrated its 30th anniversary of foundation in 2003. It has been defined as “an example of perseverance, faith, and love, a voice in favor of dialogue and collaboration with Muslims, Christians, and Jews in the Holy Land.” Founded in 1973, the University of Bethlehem is the only Catholic academic institution in the Holy Land supported by the Holy See.
The are currently over 2,000 registered students (66% Muslim, 34% Christian) and it offers a series of studies including Art, Science, Business Administration, Education, Nursing, and Tourism. It also features programs in conjunction with other Catholic, Arab, and Jewish universities in the Holy Land and in other countries of the world.
The Christian Brothers, with over 73,000 lay collaborators offer their education services to over 907,000 students, in 80 countries worldwide. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 25/7/2008)
