On Wednesday, 7 October 2026, Bethlehem University was honored to welcome a distinguished delegation from the Holy Land Commission of the Grand Magisterium of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem (EOHSJ). 

The delegation included Sir Tim Milner, KGCHS; Dame Donna M. Milner, M.D., DGCHS; Her Excellency Donata Krethlow-Benziger; Dame Connie Kimberger; and Mr. François Vayne. They were accompanied by Mr. Johny Zeidan, BU’90, Chief Executive Officer of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem (LPJ), and Mr. Sami El-Yousef, former CEO of the Latin Patriarchate.

The visit provided a valuable opportunity for dialogue on Bethlehem University’s mission, its commitment to educating young Palestinians, and the increasingly difficult realities facing students, families, and Christian communities in the Holy Land.

The meeting addressed the impact of the ongoing war and occupation, restrictions on movement, economic hardship, and the prolonged disruption of tourism and pilgrimage activities. Particular attention was given to how these challenges affect access to higher education, employment prospects, and family livelihoods, as well as the importance of creating opportunities that enable young people to pursue their aspirations and build sustainable futures in their homeland.

The meeting also included an update on the AFAQ Project, implemented by Bethlehem University’s Institute for Community Partnership (ICP) in collaboration with the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem. The update highlighted the project’s achievements, impact, and outcomes, alongside the continuing and emerging needs of the communities it serves. 

Discussions explored opportunities to strengthen professional skills, promote entrepreneurship, expand employment prospects, and support local livelihoods in response to the changing economic and social circumstances.

The visit reflected a shared understanding of the importance of education, economic opportunity, and community development in addressing present challenges while helping sustain the Christian presence in the Holy Land.

Bethlehem University deeply values its longstanding relationship with the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem and the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem. The University is grateful for their continued friendship, solidarity, and genuine concern for the well-being of its students and the wider community.