Ministry With The Deaf
Deaf Outreach
The Deaf are among the most underserved groups globally, with 98% yet to hear John 3:16 in their heart language. Many have never seen a Bible story signed to them or heard the Gospel explained. There’s no complete Deaf Bible, and few churches reach out to the Deaf community; therefore the Deaf have no real access to hear the salvation message. Deaf people are often abandoned, neglected and isolated, in their families, work places, and sadly even within the church.
Who we are
At Pure Heart we have a Ministry with the Deaf. “Jesus talked a lot about going to the least of these.” Deaf and Hard of hearing and Deaf-Blind and Deaf-low vision are welcomed here. Through qualified interpreters the messages are interpreted into American Sign Language (ASL). Our Ministry with the Deaf has a profound understanding of the Deaf culture, is fluent in ASL as well as English enabling not only outreach to the Deaf community but to other churches interested in starting their own ministry. We know more than just ASL! We also know PSE and SEE. Using tactile sign language or “live Braille” the Deaf- blind are also served. The ministry with the Deaf will also visit Deaf in hospitals, jails and prisons. They have also taught sign language classes to those in the church, so they can welcome new Deaf visitors and hold basic conversations. Deaf people often have other needs as well, so we try to connect them to the appropriate places so those needs can be met. We have a qualified CDI who answers these questions during the service so that the concepts are clear. At times, the CDI will relay interpret to match specific needs of a individual. All you have to do is ask! At Pure Heart, we truly have a “Heart for the Deaf”.
What we offer
Hearing Assistance
We know that some people are losing hearing or have auditory brain disorder that can benefit from our FM system. Our FM system is compatible with your own personal earbuds, or your personal hearing aids, in most cases. For hearing aid compatibility please check with your audiologist. Hearing assistance is also great for those who have attention difficulties. FM systems are located in the lobby to borrow during service hours.
Visitation Available
Deaf and Hard of hearing who are sick, elderly, in assisted living, hospitals, shut ins, jails and prisons need visitation too. The Deaf are more isolated and ignored due to the language barrier and cultural differences. We strive to overcome those barriers. Many misunderstandings happen between the culturally Deaf and the hearing caretakers, which can often lead to neglect. We have successfully educated the hearing caretakers with a few basic signs and helped them identify cultural differences to better communicate and care. Our visitation makes a brighter day for those whom they visit. Upon request, we can also bring Service/Therapy Dogs that comfort and ease the stress of being lonely, sick or in need of a fur friend.
Prayer
Prayer is offered in ASL, in person or via videophone. Please let us know if you need prayer in ASL.
ASL Bible Study
The Bible is sometimes difficult for people to understand and that is even more true for the Deaf. By using ASL, the Deaf have equal access to the Bible. We have Deaf Bibles free of charge for those who are interested. Unfortunately, there is no complete Christian ASL Bible at this time, but we do have the complete New Testament. ASL Bible study helps in relieving the gap by omitting the English and incorporating ASL. It also provides discussion, questions and answers for the participants.
Interpreters In Student's Church
Our children’s interpreters have graduated from Phoenix College and even work in an environment with Deaf students at a local school for the Deaf. They are familiar with the current signs Deaf students use as well as the signs Deaf Adults use. Because they are in an educational environment with students on a regular basis, they can communicate more effectively than those who are not involved with the educational process.
Mentoring and Tutoring
Interested in becoming church interpreter? Those who have ASL skills either through a IPP or ITP program, Native signers such as K/CODA’s, those who have acquired advanced ASL and signing skills, we are here to help you take that next step! We provide free training and tutoring to those interested to integrate the Bible with accurate translation to ASL for full access to God’s word. Fluency is mandatory so the Deaf can understand the full message in their native ASL Language. Biblical concepts are crucial to understand. If the English word “run” has 147 different conceptual ASL signs, then you can understand why one – on – one mentoring is imperative in becoming proficient with Biblical vocabulary and ASL linguistics. If you desire to learn sign language, we have many opportunities in the community and local colleges to which we can refer you.
Outreach
Referral Services - Deaf Focused
Interpreted Classes on Campus
Deaf-Blind Services
We Encourage Deaf Involvement and Volunteering
There are different kinds of {spiritual} gifts; but {they are all from} the same Spirit. There are different ways to serve; but {all these ways are from} the same Lord. And there are different ways that God works in people; but {all these ways are from} the same God. God works in us all to do everything. (EVD)
It is a vital to involve Deaf in church events and we encourage the Deaf to become involved in serving in our church and our community. Some opportunities include:
- Pure Heart shuttle driver
- Pure Heart Community Day (twice year) o Ushering
- Small group leader