Holy Family Hospital Talk Theme Is Hope

Last March, the Holy Trinity Church Malta group hosted Ambassador Michèle Bowe, president of Holy Family Hospital of Bethlehem Foundation and the Order of Malta’s Ambassador to Palestine, for a conversation about the Holy Family Hospital and conditions in Bethlehem affecting its work. Michèle said the hospital is about hope in a culture that values children and hospitality. She talked about the poverty in Bethlehem, where 90 percent of the workforce goes without salary. In response, the hospital is now subsidizing deliveries and care by up to 85 percent to ensure all patients have access to medical care. Holy Family Hospital’s menopause, gestational diabetes, and mobile clinic remain completely free. In addition, as poverty increases, the Christian emigration from the Holy Land continues. As one of the largest job providers in Bethlehem, the hospital offers high quality employment, helping keep Christians from emigrating. The foundation now provides scholarships for 16 Christian nursing/midwifery students and three Christian medical students. 

Michèle emphasized with great pride that the protocols in the neonatal clinic continue to provide the same standards as in a major American hospital. It was a fascinating hour, with questions and discussion following her excellent and sobering presentation. Michèle’s theme of “Hope” explains how the hospital provides hope and support to the community.