Beit Jala, Palestine, lies only two kilometers from the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ. Its name comes from Aramaic, the language of Jesus Christ, and means "grass carpet". The city is considered to be one of oldest in Palestine, and its' first municipal council was established in 1912.
Beit Jala is the home for about 17500 people of Palestinian Christians and Muslims living together in harmony, respect and cooperation as a great example of coexistence between religions. Many of its citizens were forced to flee during the past century due to poverty and armed conflict in the area. The estimated number of the expatriates and their ancestors of Beit Jala living in Chile, Central and South America in addition to the United States is approximately 100,000 people.
Beit Jala is famous for its religious, educational and health organizations that serve the citizens of the city, the neighboring cities of Bethlehem, Beit Sahour and all nearby villages and refugee camps. In addition, there are several organizations for children, women and youth care, not to forget to mention the several resorts and tourist sites in the city that represent one of the most significant means of businesses for the city. |
