Bethlehem University Hosts Brother Álvaro Rodríguez Echeverría, Superior General of the De La Salle Brothers 

The visit started in the evening of 12 April 2004 with meeting the Brothers' Community, and attending a Concert in the University Chapel offered by the Olive Branches Choir, of which Brother Henry Chaya and Brother Myron Collins are members.

On Tuesday 13 April, Brother Álvaro gave a major address entitled “University Education and the Lasallian Mission” to the faculty, staff, and De La Salle Brothers assembled in Furno Hall especially on the occasion of this visit. In addition to speaking of the Lasallian spirit and present realities of university education in today's globalized world, Brother Álvaro spoke to the University community about his vision of a Lasallian higher education where teaching, research, and social transformation play an integral role. ( Click here for full text ).

Archbishop Pietro Sami, Chancellor of the University and Apostolic Delegate, offered a prayer asking for inspiration and empowerment so that educators can serve their students with courage. Brother Vincent Malham, President-Vice Chancellor of Bethlehem University, spoke of the great honor for Bethlehem University to welcome Brother Álvaro, Brother Marc, and Brother Georges, and he spoke highly of their fraternal support and dedication to the University.

A reception was held during which members of the University community greeted Brother Álvaro and thanked him for the encouragement and support Bethlehem University is receiving, acknowledging the invaluable role of the De La Salle Brothers in conducting Bethlehem University and helping Palestinian youth.

Brother Álvaro's visit included a meeting with the Executive Council and Members of the Board of Trustees. He toured the campus with Student Ambassadors. Brother Álvaro visited UNESCO's Biotechnology Research Center, Fuglister Computer Lab, the Social and Cultural Center, the Palestinian Heritage Center: Turathuna , and saw the view of Bethlehem, Beit Jala, and Beit Sahour, with Jerusalem in the distance, from the balcony of the historic Bethlehem Hall.

In the afternoon the visiting Brothers met with students as they discussed their concerns, challenges, hopes, and dreams, given the harsh conditions in the Holy Land. The meeting was followed with a Palestinian cultural performance, during which students performed cultural music and traditional Dabkeh dance.