[Note: Costandy (Costy) Saba was one of the founding teachers at Hope School, Beit Jala, in 1962 and he taught there for 2 years. Today was the first time he returned since then. I asked Beth and Costy to blog about what it was like to see the inspiring school he helped launch. Beth wrote their response. -jcd]

Costy Saba and 11th graders at Hope School

Joan wanted us to keep it brief, but to verbalize the sounds, sights and smells today would fill several pages. I will focus on our trip to Hope School for two reasons. First, when this school was begun in 1962, my husband was one of three teachers to instruct 35 boys who were in Junior High. He was so excited to interact with the students there today, and to see the room in which he taught. We were both moved by the passion of the Director of Development, Laila Nour,  and the enthusiasm of the 11th grade students with whom we engaged. The second reason was that our home congregation has supported this school for the past 6 years. We wanted to be able to report to our church that the money we have given has helped to keep a school in operation in an area of Palestine that desperately needs Hope.

Beth Saba and kindergarteners, Hope School

~ Beth Saba