Bright Stars of Bethlehem

Join Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb and Bright Stars of Bethlehem this Giving Tuesday, December 3rd, at 12 P.M. CST (10 A.M. PST and 1 P.M. EST) on Zoom for our virtual event, “Serving at the Upper Room: Palestinian Hospitality At Its Best.”

During this event, you will hear about the Hospitality Educational Center Restaurant project, which creates opportunities for culinary students in Palestine. This project aims to become a tourist destination, offering a stunning 360-degree view of the Holy Land from one of the highest points in Bethlehem, making the Center a landmark in the city. Register at: https://us06web.zoom.us/.../reg.../WN_SL8oPlPkTO2lttMZLu1Zng

Celebrating Arts and Resilience: An Exhibition at Murtsam Art Studio

Nestled in the heart of Palestine, Dar al-Kalima University stands out as the region's only institution dedicated exclusively to the arts and culture. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, the university is known for refining and cultivating the skills of its students, thanks in large part to its outstanding faculty members.

One of the university’s remarkable success stories is that of Rani Sharabati, a driven graduate in Contemporary Arts. Rani's artistic journey has led him to establish the Murtsam Art Studios in the historic city of Hebron. This creative haven serves as a vibrant space where artists, innovators, and young individuals can gather to explore and develop their artistic talents.

This week, Murtsam Art Studio is hosting a compelling exhibition titled "Appear and Disappear," featuring the works of Rani Sharabati alongside fellow curator, Izz Al Jabari. Set in the vibrant surroundings of Hebron City’s Rama Suburb, this exhibition promises to delve deep into the complex realities of life in the region.

The theme of "Appear and Disappear" resonates strongly in a land marked by the heavy memories of its past. The exhibition captures how time and history have shaped the geography of Palestine, often concealing layers of experiences while simultaneously reshaping the cultural landscape. Rani’s artwork poignantly reflects the silent absence felt in the face of a heavy presence, creating a dialogue on the contradictions of living amidst siege and erasure.

Through Rani's art, the exhibition seeks to evoke visions of veiled gatherings and spaces that feel limited yet rich with stories. It portrays the struggles of survival where contradictions abound, highlighting the resilience of a people navigating through adversity. Rani Sharabati and Izz Al Jabari have created an experience that invites both reflection and connection, offering a vibrant narrative of life in Palestine.

Four years ago, Bright Stars of Bethlehem launched an inspiring challenge to its partners in the United States, inviting them to "Be The Key” for arts and culture education at Dar al-Kalima University. The goal was to unlock hope for the next generation of creative leaders in Palestine, and many answered the call.

Hundreds of supporters stepped up to embrace the challenge, becoming instrumental in unlocking opportunities for aspiring artists and visionaries. Among those future leaders was Ismail Matar, a particularly talented DAK student who was commissioned to create a painting reflecting the essence of the challenge.

With great enthusiasm and creativity, Ismail produced a breathtaking piece that captured the spirit of the initiative. His work not only showcased his artistic talent but also symbolized hope and resilience in the face of challenges, including the ongoing Occupation and the impacts of a global pandemic.

The response to the challenge highlighted the importance of arts education, demonstrating how investment in culture can lead to brighter futures for young individuals like Ismail. As supporters admired Ismail's vibrant and hopeful depiction in his painting, entitled "Be The Key," they were reminded of the potential that exists even amid adversity.

Dar al-Kalima University: Empowering Future Leaders Through Scholarships

Dar al-Kalima University is making significant strides in empowering its students and enhancing the overall educational experience with an ambitious scholarship program. As part of its annual strategic plan, the university is dedicated to supporting students across various educational stages, reinforcing its vision of cultivating future leaders in the realms of arts and culture.

Recently, Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb announced that approximately 40% of the university’s students will benefit from various scholarship opportunities. This initiative is designed to motivate outstanding students to further their academic pursuits and is especially crucial for those hailing from different provinces, allowing them to access education despite the numerous challenges faced by the Palestinian community.

Highlighting the importance of this initiative, Rev. Dr. Raheb remarked on the difficult circumstances prevailing in the region, particularly due to the ongoing conflict that disproportionately affects many of its citizens, especially in Gaza. Despite these challenges, he underscored that the scholarship program is vital to the university’s mission of creating a collaborative learning environment—one that fosters interaction and integration between students and the institution.

Since its inception, Dar al-Kalima University has upheld a teaching philosophy aimed at dismantling colonial narratives in favor of fostering national perspectives. This approach not only prepares students to articulate the Palestinian national narrative on an international stage but also contributes to the strengthening of Palestine’s creative economy—an essential pillar of national resilience.

Through these efforts, Dar al-Kalima University continues to be a beacon of hope and opportunity, nurturing the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of arts, culture, and education in Palestine.

Despite the destruction of the Gaza Training Center in April 2024 and the loss of two staff members, 36 volunteers currently organize psychosocial activities in shelters to help children cope with trauma. In the first six months of this year, the Dar al-Kalima University - Gaza Training Center conducted 180 psychosocial activities, reaching at least 3,600 children aged 6 to 15. Activities included music and dance therapy, art projects, and storytelling, all aimed at helping the children manage their fears and anxiety. The response from both children and parents was overwhelmingly positive, with many requesting similar activities for caregivers.

Dar al-Kalima University is also supporting university students in Gaza, whose campuses have been destroyed, by facilitating their education under challenging circumstances. The organization has collaborated with Palestinian universities in the West Bank to ensure students receive accreditation for their courses, helping to restore lost academic records.

In a pilot phase launched in the Summer and Fall of 2024, Dar al-Kalima University offered art-related courses and received 1,662 applications, ultimately accepting 564 students. This response underscores the significant need and hope among young people for a better future. Many students have demonstrated remarkable dedication, overcoming obstacles to participate in their education, such as walking long distances to access Wi-Fi for live classes.

Learn more at https://www.brightstarsbethlehem.com/page/gaza-training-center

In a world where cultural identities are often overshadowed, the preservation and promotion of Palestinian culture have become more essential than ever. Dar al-Kalima University, the only institution of its kind in Palestine dedicated to arts, culture, and design, stands as a beacon of hope and creativity for Palestinian identity and heritage.

At Dar al-Kalima, students engage deeply with their roots through various artistic mediums. The university not only offers a curriculum that fosters creativity but also emphasizes the importance of understanding and celebrating Palestinian history and traditions. This focus creates a nurturing environment where students can express their cultural narratives and perspectives through art, design, and media.

Preserving Palestinian culture is important for several reasons. First, it fosters a sense of community and belonging. As students explore their heritage, they strengthen their ties to their past and to each other. This collective identity is crucial in the face of ongoing challenges and fragmentation experienced in the region.

The arts have a unique ability to challenge perceptions and tell stories that may otherwise go unheard. By empowering students to become cultural ambassadors, Dar al-Kalima University plays a significant role in reshaping narratives about Palestine. Through exhibitions, performances, and collaborative projects, students can showcase their work not only locally but also on international platforms, allowing their voices to resonate globally.

Preserving Palestinian culture is synonymous with resilience. Each artistic expression becomes an act of defiance against erasure and a statement of existence. The university encourages students to harness their creativity, enabling them to share their experiences and struggles through their art.

Dar al-Kalima University stands at the forefront of preserving Palestinian culture, offering a space where creativity flourishes, and narratives are woven into the fabric of artistic expression. Learn more about how you can support Dar al-Kalima University at brightstarsbethlehem.com

Join Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb and Bright Stars of Bethlehem this Giving Tuesday, December 3rd, at 12 P.M. CST (10 A.M. PST and 1 P.M. EST) on Zoom for our virtual event, “Serving at the Upper Room: Palestinian Hospitality At Its Best.”

During this event, you will hear about the Hospitality Educational Center Restaurant project, which creates opportunities for culinary students in Palestine. This project aims to become a tourist destination, offering a stunning 360-degree view of the Holy Land from one of the highest points in Bethlehem, making the Center a landmark in the city. Register at: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_SL8oPlPkTO2lttMZLu1Zng

Transforming Cardboard into Creative Expression: A Unique Art Activity for Children in Gaza

Today marked a remarkable day for creativity and self-expression as ten enthusiastic children from Gaza gathered to participate in a unique art activity. The event centered around recycling cardboard to create vibrant collage art pieces, infused with whimsical cartoon elements, collectively dubbed "Picasso Gaza."

Under the guidance of a dedicated Dar al-Kalima University - Gaza Training Center volunteer, Mustafa Mehna, the children engaged in a hands-on experience that encouraged them to explore their emotions and ideas through art. Each child was provided with various materials to cut, paste, and assemble artistic faces that reflected their individual feelings, showcasing their unique perspectives.

The activity was more than just an art project; it was a therapeutic outlet for mental unwinding and free expression. In a nurturing and fun-filled atmosphere, the children felt empowered to unleash their creativity, breaking free from the confines of their everyday lives. This environment allowed them to connect, fostering camaraderie and collaboration through their shared experiences in art.

Art therapy, as highlighted in this activity, plays a crucial role in supporting the talents of children in Palestine. It provides a safe space for them to explore their inner worlds while developing their artistic skills. Through such initiatives, children not only cultivate their creativity but also gain confidence and a sense of belonging.

This special art activity is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Palestinian youth. By transforming simple materials into expressive art, these children remind us of the power of creativity to heal, connect, and inspire. Learn more about the benefits of art therapy on our website at https://www.brightstarsbethlehem.com/page/gaza-training-center

Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb, the founder and president of Dar al-Kalima University and co-founder of Bright Stars of Bethlehem, spoke about his book, Decolonizing Palestine: The Land, The People, The Bible. The book provides an insider’s perspective that disrupts hegemonic and imperialist narratives about the region.

Get yours at: https://a.co/d/8b4g54T

Exploring Hospitality Management: An Educational Tour in Bethlehem

Dar al-Kalima University, renowned for its dedication to cultural and sustainable tourism, recently organized an insightful educational tour for its Bachelor of Cultural and Sustainable Tourism students. Guided by Professor Soha Kanwati, the tour took place in the historic Old Town of Bethlehem, an area rich in cultural and tourist significance.

The itinerary featured visits to several notable establishments, including the Casa Hotel, Dar The Magus, and The Bread House Hotel, and a stroll along the vibrant Al-Najma Street. These visits provided students with a firsthand experience of the hospitality industry within a unique and culturally significant context.

Throughout the tour, students gained valuable insights into hotel management practices, including how these establishments are organized and their internal planning processes. The emphasis was placed on understanding the operational mechanisms of each hotel and the unique challenges they face in today’s dynamic environment. Participants learned about current conditions impacting the hospitality sector, as well as innovative strategies and alternative plans that hotels and tourist centers might adopt to adapt and thrive.

This educational tour not only enriched the students’ theoretical knowledge with practical experience but also deepened their appreciation for the rich cultural tapestry of Bethlehem. By interacting with local hotels and tourist centers, students were able to comprehend the complexities and intricacies of hospitality management in a real-world setting, preparing them for future careers in the field.

Dar al-Kalima University continues to lead the way in providing essential learning experiences that bridge classroom knowledge with practical application, fostering the next generation of leaders in cultural and sustainable tourism.

“There is no military solution to the Palestinian issue; only a political one, beginning with an immediate ceasefire. Too many Israelis and many more Palestinians have been killed already. It is time to change course." - Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb

Volunteer artist Amal Poet shared her experiences of hope from Gaza with Dar al-Kalima University - Gaza Training Center. She organized a project centered on the theme of "Shape and Subtraction" in art. This initiative utilized the environment and natural materials to create abstract art. Fifteen children collected small pebbles from the beach along the Gaza Sea and used them to create a bird sculpture.

The goal of this activity is to promote psychological support, allowing the children to express negative emotions and alleviate anxiety, stress, and other challenges. Creating art provides a form of stress relief and relaxation. As the children engage in artistic activities, they enter a meditative state that offers a break from the harsh realities surrounding them. This therapeutic effect is crucial for promoting overall well-being in high-stress situations.

Dar al-Kalima University / DAK Charitable Society, held a training workshop focused on providing psychological support through the arts for school students on Saturday, October 26, 2024, in Bethlehem. This workshop is part of the project titled "Dealing with War Trauma: Art Therapy and Providing Psychosocial Emergency Interventions." Dar al-Kalima University is the only Palestinian university offering a Master's Degree in Arts Psychotherapy.

This project was created in partnership with several schools in the Bethlehem area, including Teracanta College, Mar Youssef School, the Swedish Good Shepherd School, Al-Quds School, and Dar al-Kalima. The objective of the project is to train qualified staff to offer psychological and social support, develop coping mechanisms, and conduct psychological and social activities for Palestinian children and youth throughout the academic year. Additionally, the project aims to raise community awareness of mental health issues and practices, emphasizing their significance in trauma recovery through monthly awareness meetings and activities.

Art therapy offers a holistic approach to healing and personal development for children in Gaza. By nurturing their emotional, social, and cognitive skills, art therapy not only aids in coping with trauma but also paves the way for a brighter future. In a landscape often marked by despair, the power of creativity shines through, providing hope and resilience to the next generation. As we recognize the importance of mental health support in conflict zones, art therapy stands out as a beacon of hope provided by Dar al-Kalima University - Gaza Training Center volunteers.

“It's so easy to lose hope. It's so easy to get depressed. It's so easy to give up. But this is where I believe God is calling us to be here in this region in Palestine, during this difficult time, to be that beacon of hope and to keep hope alive in the same place where hope was born 2000 years ago because hope is what we do.” - Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb

In a vibrant display of creativity and resilience, a new mural titled "Palestine Butterfly" has emerged in northern Gaza. This striking artwork features a butterfly, a universal symbol of freedom, intertwined with the colors of the Palestinian flag.

The initiative, aimed at alleviating the mental emptiness felt by many in the region, took place over the past weekend. Children from Gaza participated alongside volunteers, including local artist Amal Poet. Together, they transformed a blank wall into a canvas of expression, encouraging the young artists to share their feelings and connect with their community through art.

The mural not only serves as a visual representation of hope and freedom but also engages the local population, drawing the attention of passersby who interacted with the artwork and captured its beauty through photography. This communal project highlights the power of art as a means of expression and healing, fostering a sense of solidarity and optimism among the participants and observers alike.

As visitors pause to admire the mural, it serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and creativity that can thrive even in difficult circumstances. It echoes the spirit of resilience within the community and showcases the creative resistance that flows through the members of Dar al-Kalima University - Gaza Training Center.

On April 1st, as the world observed Holy Week, a series of devastating Israeli airstrikes struck the Gaza region, obliterating the entire neighborhood behind as-Shifa Hospital. Among the casualties was the Dar al-Kalima University - Gaza Training Center, which was reduced to ruins.

Six months later, in a powerful gesture of resilience, volunteers from Dar al-Kalima University gathered local children to engage in a creative project. Together, they transformed the rubble of the training center into a canvas, allowing the children to express their emotions and hopes through drawings amidst the remnants of destruction.