The BYU Jerusalem Center will reopen for the Spring 2025 term, marking the end of its 18-month closure. The center had been shut down in October 2023 due to the escalating conflict between Israel and Palestine, which raised significant security concerns, halting the BYU study abroad program.
Ross Baron, a religion professor who taught at the Jerusalem Center from 2018 to 2019, expressed his enthusiasm for the reopening, emphasizing the center’s invaluable impact on students. “It’s beyond incredible,” Baron said. “The blessings it offers are unlike any other.”
Baron, who lived in Jerusalem for a year, described the city as a unique, transformative experience. “The old city is so amazing that it’s hard to put into words,” he explained. “You can visit every day and discover something new — the sights, sounds, smells, history, and spirit. It’s truly phenomenal.”
Halle Burton, one of the students evacuated in October 2023, reflected on her time at the center. The morning she left, Burton visited the Western Wall, calling it a “sacred” experience. However, the situation quickly changed when a Palestinian soldier told her to seek shelter in a bunker. She was later evacuated to Greece with the other students.
Despite her stay being cut short, Burton remains grateful for the time she spent in Jerusalem. “I’m excited for future students to experience what I did, and to walk where Jesus walked,” she said.
Baron is confident that the reopening decision was made with careful consideration of student safety. “The First Presidency and the Board of Education are extremely concerned about student safety. If they’ve approved the opening, they must feel confident that it’s safe.”
Makia Haderlie, who was eager to attend the Jerusalem Center before the initial closure, shared her excitement about the reopening. “I’m so unbelievably excited,” Haderlie said. “I can’t imagine a better way to set up the rest of my life and continue my spiritual learning.”
With the Jerusalem Center welcoming students again, many like Haderlie are looking forward to the unique experiences and opportunities it offers.
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