BETHLEHEM, West Bank, JULY 9, 2003 (Zenit.org).- The end of the Israeli army's military occupation of Bethlehem has made it possible for the city's Catholic university to offer summer courses again.
Brother Vincent Malham, of the Brothers of Christian Schools, rector of Bethlehem Catholic University, told the Fides missionary agency that «this would seem to be a small hopeful step toward peace and security which we trust will not be stopped with new violence.»
Brother Malham says the people of Bethlehem still need a lot of support. «Difficulties in daily life persist,» he said. «Many people are still out of work, it is almost impossible to go anywhere.»
Franciscan Father Ibrahim Faltas, superior of the Nativity Church, said that after «three years of violence and hatred people have had enough. Israelis and Palestinians cannot take any more: Everyone wants a better life. The announced cease-fire offers a glimpse of hope which we must not let go.»
He added: «We are confident that the 'road map' will lead to peace. Of course, life is still difficult - especially trade and tourism - and it is still impossible to move freely around the town. But we hope that gradually there will be an improvement and a return to normality.»
ZENIT Daily dispatch - The World Seen from Rome
9. juli 2003