Bethlehem University Hosts Knights and Ladies from the
Equestrian Order of Ireland

27 September 2007

On Monday, 24 September, 45 Knights and Ladies from the Equestrian Order of Ireland led by Lieutenant Michael Joseph McDonnell visited Bethlehem University. The visit included a tour of the University Campus, discussion with the students, and attending Mass in the University Chapel.

Brother Robert Smith, Vice President for Academic Affairs, welcomed the group and thanked them for their support of Bethlehem University. He also emphasized that Bethlehem University continues to be a beacon of hope struggling to carry on despite the difficulties.

The Knights and Ladies had a discussion with some Bethlehem University students, who shared many stories about their life as students of Bethlehem University and as Palestinians living in the Bethlehem area-under Israeli occupation. Iman Abdallah expressed her sadness and disappointment as she, in addition to many Palestinian Muslims, could not go to Jerusalem last Friday to pray in the Al-Aqsa Mosque during the holy month of Ramadan. Due to the deteriorating economic situation in Palestine, Amir Bannoura talked about the difficulty that some students are facing to buy required books for various courses.

The Knights and Ladies attended the 12:00 o’clock noon Mass held daily in the Bethlehem University Chapel. The Reverends Feargal McGrady, John Joseph Murray, Timothy Bartlett, and Kevin Browne concelebrated the Mass. During the Mass, Reverend Feargal gave an inspiring homily in which he encouraged peace and strength in the difficult circumstances.