Bethlehem Bible College (BBC)
Bethlehem Bible College is an interdenominational Bible College, which trains and prepares Christian servant-leaders for ministry in churches and society within an Arab context.
It also serves the local community through its Al Aman Counselling Centre, the Shepherd Society, a public library located at the college, courses on teaching English as a second language (TESL), and Tour Guide and Mass Media training programmes.
Bethlehem was the setting for the biblical romance between Ruth and Boaz. It was the birthplace of their grandson, King David, who tended his flocks on the hills nearby. And from the seed of David, Jesus the Messiah, was born here over two thousand years ago.
The destination of pilgrims for thousands of years, Bethlehem still finds itself the focus of great attention. Only six miles south of Jerusalem, this beautiful town lies within the territory of the West Bank. Political unrest and conflict in the region (which sadly continues, showing no signs of ending soon) have left their mark on the communities in the area, bringing much discouragement and hatred. However, despite the spirit of the age, there is still a bright star - of love, peace and hope - to be found in this biblical town.
Today, Bethlehem Bible College is providing a powerful and much needed Christian witness in the community, as well as training for young native Arab Palestinians to minister the Gospel of Jesus Christ to their own people. Founded in 1979 by local Arabs, the college usually enrolls students interested in Christian service in the Middle East.
Newcomers to the country are encouraged to participate in a programme to learn about Arab culture, language, history and aspirations.
Biblical in outlook, the college accepts students from all denominations, and offers courses from an outstanding faculty, combining high academic standards with deep spiritual commitment to Christ.
Graduates of Bethlehem Bible College have pursued various careers and have committed themselves to service within their communities. These men and women work as teachers, pastors, medical professionals and various similar positions. Some have gone on for advanced degrees.
The college sponsors a number of ministries to the surrounding community such as a nursery, Sunday Schools and Bible studies. Students also provide church services and Sunday School classes for children at a nearby orphanage.
Since its inception, Bethlehem Bible College has been governed by a local board of directors, which includes Dr Bishara Awad (President of BBC). Six permanent trustees oversee the work of the College, with other local leaders serving the board by election as needed. The trustees represent various professions and denominations.
In September 1990, the college moved to its new home, the former Bible Lands Society buildings on Hebron Road. With additional classroom space and dormitories, Bethlehem Bible College has been able to increase its enrollment and expand its ministry.
Visitors to the Holy Land are welcome to visit Bethlehem Bible College to meet and share with Christian Arabs who are dedicated to the Lord Jesus Christ. It also welcomes the support and prayers of Christians around the world for those who are committed preserving the witness of Christ among the indigenous people who live in the Land of the Bible today.
Bethlehem Bible College is accredited by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education of the Palestinian National Authority and the Middle East Association of Theological Education (MEATE).
We have supported Bethlehem Bible College for a number of years, and continue to do so, providing an annual grant which helps meet the costs of running the college.
Contact Address
PO Box 17166Jerusalem 91190
ISRAEL T: +972 (0)2 274 1190
W:http://www.bethlehembiblecollege.edu/
E: info@bethlehembiblecollege.edu
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