Bethlehem University celebrated a significant milestone with the graduation of the first cohort of its Professional Diploma in Leadership and Spiritual Formation for Christian Youth.
The official ceremony, held on the university campus, marked the accomplishments of the graduates who completed this program designed to equip Christian youth with the skills and knowledge necessary to foster community engagement and spiritual growth.
The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including His Excellency Bishop William Shomali, Patriarchal Vicar for Jerusalem and Palestine; His Excellency Bishop Yaacoub Afram Semaan, Patriarchal Vicar for the Syriac Catholics in the Holy Land and Jordan; and His Excellency Archbishop Atallah Hanna, Archbishop of Sebastia for the Greek Orthodox.
Representing Bethlehem University were Brother Hernan Santos, Vice Chancellor; Rev. Dr. Iyad Twal, Executive Vice President; Brother Peter Iorlano, Vice President for Human Resources; Brother Jack Curran, Vice President for Advancement; Dr. Iman Saca, Vice President for Academic Affairs; and Moussa Rabadi, Director of the Institute for Community Engagement and Partnership. Also in attendance were program faculty, representatives from local Christian institutions, clergy from various denominations, nuns, and the graduates’ families and friends.
The ceremony began with the Palestinian national anthem followed by a moment of silence for the martyrs. In his welcoming address, Brother Hernan Santos emphasized the importance of faith, leadership, and community engagement, encouraging the graduates to lead with vision and compassion. He highlighted the transformative journey the students had undertaken, noting the program’s unique focus on spiritual formation and developing young leaders in the Holy Land.
His Excellency Bishop William Shomali delivered a moving speech, expressing his gratitude to the university and all those who contributed to the program. He encouraged the graduates to continue serving their communities and embodying Christian values, reminding them of their important role in preserving the Christian identity in the Holy Land.
On behalf of the students, Sameh Shaheen shared his experiences and reflections on the program. He spoke about the challenges facing Palestinian society in general and Christians in the region, particularly during the war and difficult circumstances they studied in. Shaheen emphasized the program’s role in fostering unity, resilience, and leadership among young people. He also expressed his gratitude to the university and faculty for their ongoing support and guidance.
The official ceremony concluded with the awarding of diplomas to the graduates. A small reception followed in the Institute of the Hotel Management and Tourism, providing an opportunity for students to network with Bethlehem University administrators and their families. This occasion marked a significant milestone for both the university and the graduates, who are now prepared to assume leadership roles in their communities, armed with the skills and knowledge they gained from the program.
