Page 6 - Bridges For Peace Continuing Ed Module 1

begin the end of August. Not only would the students study in classrooms, but
they would go out regularly to visit biblical sites and archaeological “digs”
throughout Israel.

As the Institute got started, and their contacts with the Jewish community
increased, Snook’s hospitality and cooking skills were put to the test, as guests,
both Jewish and Gentile, were constantly at their table. Over the years the
students would increase to about 125 students at a time, including from time to
time students from Korea, Doug’s place of birth. All of them would come to
appreciate Snook’s prowess in the kitchen.

For several years Dr. Young, as Dean and Professor of Old Testament at Trinity
Seminary in Chicago, and also President and teacher at the Institute in
Jerusalem, was exceedingly busy going between the two schools. Finally in
December of 1963 Dr. and Mrs. Young moved to Israel and took up permanent
residence at the Institute in Jerusalem.

With the growth of the school another problem soon arose. First of all, their
lease of the C&MA property would expire in 1967, but also that property was now
becoming too small. With prices sky high in Jerusalem things looked impossible.
But God knew the need all along, and again, He opened the door!

Doug found that the old Bishop Dobat School, formerly owned and operated by
the Church of England, had been vacant ever since the 1948 War of
Independence. Located on Mount Zion, it was situated in the dangerous “No
Man’s Land” between Jewish and Arab occupied Jerusalem. It was shell-
pocked, vandalized, and ankle-deep in broken plaster and rubbish. However, the
massive roof and walls were solid, and it was large enough for the students and
staff. In a short while Doug received word from the Anglican Archbishop that
they would lease them the school to the Institute if the Institute would repair the
damage. Doug joyfully signed the agreement, recognizing that again God had
provided.

There was a tremendous amount of work to do to make the building ready for
use. Faculty and students began work on the renovations together, and God
gradually provided the funds. The 24 students at the time cleaned and repaired
until the first wing was rebuilt and painted, giving room for up to 66 students.

The Six Day War
However, the six days of June, 1967, designated the “Six Day War”, immediately
changed everything. President Nasser of Egypt had stated, “The Arab people are
firmly resolved to wipe Israel off the map: our aim will be to destroy Israel!” King
Hussein of Jordan told Arabs of the region, “Kill every Jew you encounter! Kill
them with your guns, your hands, your feet, your teeth – only kill them!”
Jerusalem knew what it was to be surrounded by hate.