Deaf

Deaf Orality

A common misconception about Deaf people is that they think, communicate and learn like hearing people. When they use sign language, it’s just “English on the hands” or some mimicking of the majority spoken language of that people group. Nothing could be further from the truth. Most Deaf people will not use written text as a primary source of information. Instead, they pass cultural and significant information in the form of stories.

Regardless of where a Deaf person is raised in the world, they are part of the minority. Hearing people control virtually every aspect of their lives. Some cultures go so far as to consider them mentally retarded and restrict their freedom. But a more humane and Christian view is that Deaf people are redeemed and called to express their own unique identity just like hearing people. Given the opportunity, they too can “make disciples of all (Deaf) nations.”

To become properly equipped, Storying has been recognized as the most effective way to empower Deaf people to reach other Deaf people. The process to this expression is multi-phased:

• Crafting stories from Scripture into the sign language of their heart, not the signs of their school or professional life.
• Validating Scriptural authenticity of the finished product
• Using stories as a way to implant truth into as many Deaf who will listen
• Training to those committed to spreading the news via memorization
• Reproducing other storying centers
• Eliciting feedback and improvements via web-based media

Storying brings a profound change, even among those who have attended religious events all of their life. For the first time, significant doctrines and Bible truths are made clear. This leads to significant personal change. Through stories, the Deaf build their faith and truly “hear” the Word of God.

• Deaf Orality