The purpose of the interpreting ministry is to create equal access to the gospel message and training through preaching to those who “hear” visually. Romans 10:14 reminds us, “But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them?”Too often the Deaf Community is left out of the same opportunities for church family and growth because interpreters are rarely offered in churches. This interpreting ministry is designed to fight against this sad truth and make the church a place where Deaf people can participate. 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 shares with us the example of Paul who made the adaptations necessary to reach those who were different culturally than he. We too must practice this pattern in order to reach across these barriers. Mile Straight seeks to accomplish this through promoting an awareness of Deaf culture and seeking to spread knowledge of some signs. Basic Sign Language classes and Deaf Culture classes will be offered periodically and open to all. The interpreting ministry as a whole and church leadership share the view that the Deaf Community is acultural/linguistic minority group. We do not view Deaf people with pity or as disabled; we instead recognize equality among all, embrace differences, and will seek to bridge the gap between the hearing world and Deaf world.
Interpreter Information
Emily Hart graduated in 2010 from Tennessee Temple University with a Bachelors of Science in Sign Language Interpreting. She passed her NIC written and also received a 3.8 on her EIPA. Emily was called to Deaf ministry several years ago, and her burden and love for the Deaf Community have grown ever since.
Signs of Life
Signs of Life is a ministry group that seeks to worship God through songs interpreted into American Sign Language; serve through projects related to Deaf ministry; develop some conversational sign language skills; and increase Deaf awareness. Participants must be at least of middle school age.Signs of Life meets Sundays at 5pm
