Springfield Diocese visit Bethlehem University

7 December 2007

During their sixth trip to Bethlehem University, Sue Morris and Tom Garlitz led a group from the Springfield Dioceses, USA, to visit Bethlehem University on Monday, 3 December. The aim of their pilgrimage was to learn from peacemakers and Middle East experts about life in Palestine.

The group was greeted by Br. Jack Curran, Vice President for Development, Br. Robert Smith, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Ms. Dina Awwad, Public Relations and Development Officer, Max Brenner, Public Relations and Development Assistant, and several University students. The visit included a campus tour and visit of the University Chapel, a discussion with the University students, and lunch at the Hotel Management.

During the discussion panel, the students: Amir Bannoura, Amani Rishmawi, Shatha Daqaq, and Claude Zeidan, talked about their life as Palestinian youth struggling to obtain a good education despite the difficult circumstances. “Coming to the university and attending classes is one way we resist the Israeli occupation”, Shatha commented, trying to explain the importance of education to the Palestinians. In reference to the Muslim-Christian relations among the students on campus, Amir reflected, “The University provides an atmosphere where students from both religions feel harmonized and comfortable with each other”.

The group members were very pleased to meet with some of Bethlehem University’s staff members and students. “May God help you and support you in delivering your message to the Palestinian community and the outside world”, Sue Morris concluded.