Bethlehem University is proud to announce that two of its outstanding undergraduate students, Bisan Rishmawi and Salam Demes, have travelled to Italy to participate in the Catholic Studies Semester at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome during the Fall 2025 semester. This opportunity marks a significant milestone not only in their academic journeys but also in the mission of forming future Catholic leaders from Palestine.
This prestigious program is designed to address a growing pastoral need: the theological and spiritual formation of young Christian leaders in Palestine who are equipped to serve both the Church and their communities with renewed insight, vigor, and faith. The semester-long immersion in Rome will allow students to engage with Catholic theology, philosophy, art, literature, and social thought in the very heart of the global Church.
The program responds to the unique challenges facing Palestinian youth, particularly Christians, who often find themselves marginalized and lacking in global ecclesial engagement. It gives the participants direct access to some of the world’s foremost theologians, scholars, and spiritual mentors, resources that are often inaccessible in their home context. Through this experience, Bisan and Salam will join a global cohort of Catholic students and be immersed in an environment that fosters intercultural dialogue, intellectual exploration, and spiritual growth.
Upon their return to Palestine, Bisan and Salam are expected to play active roles in local pastoral renewal. Their formation in Rome will empower them to contribute to youth ministry, catechetical initiatives, interfaith dialogue, and civic engagement, thus enriching both the Church and the broader Palestinian society.
The selection of the two students is the fruit of extensive collaboration and commitment. Bethlehem University extends its deep appreciation to Father Peter Gadallah, whose leadership and vision were instrumental in initiating this effort, as well as to Ms. Hanadi Younan, Dean of Arts, and Mr. Michel Rock, Chairperson of the Department of Religious Studies, for their exceptional dedication throughout the selection process.
This initiative also echoes Pope Francis’ call for the global Church to walk in solidarity with Christians in the Holy Land and to invest in their flourishing. By supporting this new generation of young leaders, the program not only bridges geographical and cultural divides but also lays the groundwork for a more vibrant and connected Church.
Bethlehem University congratulates Bisan and Salam on this remarkable achievement and looks forward to the invaluable perspectives and renewed spirit they will bring back to campus and to their communities.