Why Deaf ministry must be led by Deaf Christians

USA (MNN) — If it seems like you’re seeing sign language interpreters more often on the news or at big events, you’re not mistaken. “Many people would recognize that we’re seeing more and more visibility of sign language and Deaf communities. It’s become pretty standard, for instance, for presidential addresses to have a sign language interpreter alongside the president,” Rob Myers of DOOR International says. However, he adds, “people just don’t know the struggles that have gone into getting some of that recognition.” Historically, Deaf people in the United States couldn’t access information because it wasn’t available in sign language. Opportunities for Deaf leaders were also limited — even in Christian ministry. “The woman who helped to found DOOR (Vesta Bice) watched as her father was turned down by over 50 organizations simply because he was Deaf,” Myers says. “He had the skills, he had the leadership qualities, but they simply said, ‘We can’t send a Deaf person into the field.’” In 1983, Vesta founded Reaching Out to Texas Deaf, which later became DOOR International. At DOOR, Deaf believers translate God’s Word into sign languages and train Deaf church planters in evangelism, discipleship, and Scripture engagement. Learn more here. These missionaries work together to reach Deaf communities for Christ. (Photo courtesy DOOR International) “Deaf people are the most effective leaders and ministers of the Gospel in their own communities. When a Deaf person encounters another Deaf person, there’s a link and a shared experience,” Myers says. “No Hearing person can connect in that same way.” Although Hearing people serve in important supportive roles, he adds, “Deaf ministry belongs to Deaf people. It needs to be led by Deaf people and implemented by Deaf people.” The world tends to think of deafness as a disability, but many Deaf people identify as members of a distinct cultural and linguistic community. Of the world’s 70 million Deaf people, less than two percent know and follow Jesus. Visit DOOR International’s website to learn more. Then, consider donating to help Deaf believers reach their communities for Christ. “Learn more about what God’s doing through DOOR and in Deaf communities globally. We would love for people to come alongside and partner in this work,” Myers says. “Your partnership with our organization helps Deaf leaders fulfill the calling and commission that God has placed on their lives to reach their own communities with the Gospel.” Header and story images courtesy of DOOR International.