Bethlehem Bible College July 2025

We are delighted to share that on June 7th, Bethlehem Bible College celebrated the graduation of 41 students—31 from our main campus in Bethlehem and 10 from our partner institution, Nazareth Evangelical College. This class represented nearly all our academic programs, including the MA in Theology in the Public Square, the BA and diploma in Biblical Studies, our Online Biblical Studies program, and the Hebrew diploma. We are incredibly proud of each graduate and the perseverance they have shown through challenging times.

In April, our entire college staff had the rare opportunity to travel to Athens, Greece, for a much-needed retreat and capacity-building training. For many, it was their first time traveling outside of Palestine. Board members, administrators, faculty, and even support staff came together to worship, learn, and enjoy fellowship in a new and refreshing environment. It was a deeply restorative time, providing encouragement and unity to a team that continues to serve faithfully amid ongoing regional hardships.

We also want to share news of a significant leadership transition. Rev. Dr. Munther Isaac has stepped down as Academic Dean to lead our Bethlehem Institute of Peace and Justice. Under his guidance, this growing initiative encompasses our certificate and MA programs in Peacemaking and Justice, the Christ at the Checkpoint Conference, research and scholar programs, and advocacy work. Dr. Isaac is uniquely gifted to lead this vital ministry.

We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Yousef AlKhoury as our new Academic Dean, a former student of Bethlehem Bible College who brings deep passion and vision to the role. He shared exciting new developments underway, including the launch of a Professional Diploma in Psychological Counseling with a focus on Trauma, accredited by both the Palestinian Ministry of Higher Education and the Ministry of Labor. This one-year program begins this fall and is designed to equip students to serve as counselors in their communities.

Additionally, a 12-week summer pilot program in Entrepreneurship from a Christian Perspective is underway, with plans to develop it into an accredited diploma track. Our joint PhD program with the Middle East Graduate Theological Consortium will also welcome its first cohort of students in October.

We’re also encouraged by the leadership of Mrs. Rula Rishmawi, our new Student Affairs Coordinator and a graduate of the college. With over two decades of teaching experience in public schools and an MA in Psychological and Educational Guidance, she is mentoring students to live out their faith in service to others. Her insights have shaped our student outreach and recruitment efforts in meaningful ways.

These updates reflect a vibrant and resilient institution, one that is expanding its infrastructure and deepening its impact even as it continues to face the ongoing hardships in Gaza and the West Bank.

Thank you for your continued prayers and generous support. Because of you, the ministry of Bethlehem Bible College not only endures but thrives.

Marianne Smith

U.S. Development Officer

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Outreach Foundation is seeking gifts to support the mission and ministry of Bethlehem Bible College. All gifts of any size are welcomed to help provide scholarships for students. You may make a gift by sending a check to the address below or you may make an online gift via the button below.