Brother Álvaro Rodríguez Echeverría received a warm welcome from Bethlehem University during his visit in March, while on a tour of Lasallian institutions in the Middle East.
He spent a lot of time interacting with students, staff, and faculty. Several students told him that the loving atmosphere of community where they are welcome regardless of their religion is why they chose to attend the university. The high quality education they receive, without having to travel abroad to a larger university, was another reason for their choice. Bro. Álvaro also visited with Bethlehem’s Lasallian Group, members of the Executive Committee and Board members.
The highlight of the visit was the presentation of an honorary doctorate to Bro. Álvaro by the university. Throughout the visit, Br. Álvaro repeatedly said that “Bethlehem University is an oasis of peace and a beacon of hope in this Holy Land.” He considered the university “a most important place in the international Lasallian educational world.”
Brother Robert Schieler, General Councilor of the United States-Toronto Region, was one of the Brothers who accompanied Bro. Álvaro on his visit.