I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Khaled Dally, a dedicated second-year student at Bethlehem Bible College from Reina. We discussed his journey, dreams, and future plans. I hope you enjoy reading this interview as much as I enjoyed conducting it.
Amira: Khaled, you’re in your second year at Bethlehem Bible College and have moved from Reina Town in Galilee to study Biblical Studies here. What inspired you to choose this college, and what motivated you to pursue theology?
Khaled: The call to become a pastor came to me during a church camp, where I felt a deep conviction to dedicate my life to serving the Lord. I currently reside in Jerusalem, where I am undergoing ordination training in the archdiocese. His Excellency Bishop Hussam Naoum recommended Bethlehem Bible College to me and encouraged me to pursue my studies here.
Amira: How has your life changed since starting college? After two years here, what aspects of your life do you feel have shifted?
Khaled: My life has transformed in many ways. My perspective has expanded, and I’ve had the opportunity to meet a diverse range of people, which has enhanced my interpersonal skills. Most importantly, my understanding of the Lord and His Word has deepened significantly.
Amira: Can you tell us more about your role in the Episcopal Church? What are your responsibilities and what are the goals of your service?
Khaled: I assist Pastor Wadii Al-Far with church operations and support the congregation in the office. I also serve on the youth committee, where we organize annual events for young people, including gatherings during Christmas, Advent, Lent, and Easter. We also host summer conferences for the youth. This year’s theme is “Be Victorious,” focusing on finding strength in a challenging world. We aim to inspire children to live as Christ’s disciples, embodying His spirit in their daily lives, not just during church activities.
Amira: What challenges do you face as a young person serving the youth?
Khaled: One of the main challenges is bringing together youth from the West Bank and Galilee due to the current situation and checkpoints that make travel difficult. We often arrange gatherings in the West Bank, and the ongoing conflict has intensified these challenges. Despite having to separate this year’s conferences, we remain committed to our mission and grateful for the opportunities we have to serve.
Amira: I understand your father is a pastor. How has having a pastor as a father influenced your life and service? Has it shaped your behavior or affected how others perceive you?
Khaled: There is a misconception that constant pressure makes someone a pastor. Ultimately, it’s a calling, and without that sense of purpose, pursuing it is futile. Although I felt some pressure from others to follow this path, I took time to reflect and felt a clear sense of God’s guidance. My father’s experiences have given me insight into the challenges and joys of being a clergyman, but the decision to pursue this path is deeply personal and based on individual conviction.
Amira: When you mention challenges, what specifically do you mean?
Khaled: Growing up as a pastor’s son, frequent relocations were a significant challenge. It was difficult to form lasting friendships, as we would often move to a new place. Despite the struggles, I now see the positive aspects of these experiences. I have connections in various places, which has been beneficial in my youth ministry, as I am familiar with different communities.
Amira: As a young man, do you feel that working towards becoming a pastor and serving in the church have impacted your life? Have you missed out on experiences typical for someone your age?
Khaled: Not at all. I manage my time effectively, allowing me to spend time with friends and enjoy various activities. Some people mistakenly believe that dedicating your life to God means avoiding things like movies, TV shows, and music. I believe that life can be enjoyable and fulfilling with proper time management, and service is my top priority.
Amira: Let’s discuss college. How do you view it as a place for study, and in what ways do the Bible courses enhance your service and goals in the church?
Khaled: Bethlehem Bible College has been invaluable to my service. The courses have broadened my understanding of how to prepare, organize, and deliver teachings to different age groups. I’ve learned to adapt my approach for varying audiences, which has improved my ability to explain and interpret the Bible, integrating its teachings into my life more effectively.
Amira: What are your future plans? Where do you see yourself in five years?
Khaled: My immediate goal is to complete my bachelor’s degree. After that, I plan to pursue a master’s degree and then enter the ordination process.
Amira: Finally, what message would you like to share with the college supporters—those who pray for us and provide financial support? Why should they invest in Palestinian Christian youth?
Khaled: Our youth are eager for spiritual nourishment and need a supportive environment to receive it. Bethlehem is a nearby and accessible option compared to distant locations like America, England, Australia, or Germany. Our college is vibrant, with exceptional professors who present ideas clearly and engagingly. Investing in Palestinian Christian youth at our college is a meaningful way to support those seeking to study theology or the Bible.
Amira: Thank you, Khaled. It was a pleasure to learn more about you and your perspectives. We wish you all the best in your life, service, and work in the church.
