Ceremony in Appreciation to the Gift Made by Pope John Paul II to the Students of Bethlehem University
On Wednesday, 8 September 2004, Bethlehem University students, faculty, staff, and Administration, came together for the unveiling of a plaque commemorating a very special donation made by Pope John Paul II. Because the Holy Father had asked that the donation be used specifically for the benefit of Bethlehem University students, the fund was used for renovating the Student Cafeteria in the Social and Cultural Center.
After being introduced by the Master of Ceremonies, Prof. Manuel Hassassian, Brother Vincent Malham, President-Vice Chancellor, opened the ceremony, mentioning that one stipulation was that the Pope's donation be used to benefit our students, because “His Holiness Pope John Paul II loves the students of Bethlehem University.” The students spontaneously responded with a joyful round of applause. Brother Vincent added that “the Pope's affection and confidence in the young Palestinian students of Bethlehem University will always be remembered by a commemorative plaque placed at the entrance to the Cafeteria.”
Brother Vincent Malham, Mr. Maher Turjman, and Mr. Hasan Faraj, unveiled the plaque expressing “grateful appreciation to the Pope for renovating the Student Cafeteria on the occasion of the 25 th anniversary of his Papacy.”
Mr. Maher Turjman, '91, Regional Director of the Pontifical Mission for Palestine, expressed pride in being a graduate of Bethlehem University and pledged continued friendship and support of the Pontifical Mission to this University in its efforts to educate young Palestinians.
The President of the Student Senate, Mr. Hasan Faraj, thanked the Pope warmly on behalf of Bethlehem University students. He expressed his delight to see the cafeteria renovated, looking beautiful, and being enjoyed by some many students.
Bethlehem University Student Cafeteria was originally inaugurated in 1991 as part of the Social and Cultural Center which includes conference facilities, counseling office, art room, music room, and a physical training room.
