Carlo Cardinal Martini Honored
at Bethlehem University of the Holy Land
"A Beacon of Hope for the Holy Land"

26 June 2005, Speaking of the importance and complexity of communication and the primary role of Bethlehem University in promoting peace and human rights, Carlo Cardinal Martini, distinguished church leader, scholar and promoter of ecumenism and interfaith dialogue, was the recipient of a Doctor of Humanities, Honoris Causa, conferred by Bethlehem University of the Holy Land on Sunday, 26 June 2005. His Excellency, Archbishop Pietro Sambi, Apostolic Nuncio and Chancellor of Bethlehem University, presided at the ceremony. “Bethlehem University is proud to acknowledge this eminent man of God as a friend who strengthens and encourages us to continue our important educational mission,” said Brother Vincent Malham, President-Vice Chancellor of Bethlehem University.

“I am greatly honored to receive this honorary degree from Bethlehem University, an institution which has a primary role in promoting peace and human rights in this land, from an institution which recently has been described as a 'wonderful university' by American and European bishops; from an institution whose story is one of remarkable perseverance, in spite of many problems and difficulties; from an institution where Christian and Muslim students come together from diversified backgrounds and learn to live and study together. This institution is inspired by the courage and commitment of faculty, staff and students; and many look to her as a beacon of hope for the necessary continuation of a presence of Christian families in the Holy Land. It is therefore with great joy that I accept this honor,” said His Eminence Cardinal Martini.

Cardinal Martini addressed the faculty, staff, students, alumni and civic and religious leaders gathered in the West Bank for this most significant occasion, speaking about the characteristics of authentic human communication in the context of God’s divine communication with humanity throughout history – and in the context of the work of Bethlehem University, the only Catholic Christian university in the Holy Land. Cardinal Martini emphasized the great importance of education to achieve the goals of good interpersonal communication necessary to remove the injustices which are blocks on the road to dialogue and peace. He spoke of the efforts of Bethlehem University in fostering healthy human inter-communication and helping to overcome injustice and violence, preparing leaders of a new world in which justice and peace are given to all peoples. “For this I am grateful to this University which gives witness to the basic principle of human rights and to specific religious beliefs that decisively contribute to mutual understanding,” concluded Cardinal Martini.

In 2002, at the age of 75, Cardinal Martini retired as Archbishop of Milan and moved into the Jesuit community in Jerusalem. While dedicating himself to prayer and biblical studies, as well as responding to requests for spiritual guidance and retreat ministry, His Excellency became more intimately acquainted with Bethlehem University through the community of De La Salle Christian Brothers living and working at the University. Through these years of exchange and dialogue, of sharing meals and liturgies, Cardinal Martini became personally aware of the challenges and particular needs of the University and generously sought assistance to support the University. "Despite high walls and crippling restrictions, despite insecurity and fear, your friendship is one sign, among others, that we are going to get through these dark times to a better life, at the cost of risk and perseverance," reads, in part, the degree citation.

“May the example of Cardinal Martini challenge us to be serious scholars, courageous leaders and people of compassion. May it also inspire us to be beacons of hope to the people of the Holy Land as he so faithfully is to God’s people the world over,” stated Brother Vincent.