Being Deaf is more than a diagnosis of not being able to hear. Being Deaf is a cultural difference. The Deaf community has its own language, American Sign Language, (ASL) rich history and cultural nuances that make it separate from the hearing culture. Like those of another foreign culture, Deaf people experience life better in their own language. Priests and deacons who are Deaf themselves or are fluent in ASL are best to minister to the Deaf community. Professional interpreters need to be hired and trained to work with Deaf parishioners in a religious setting.
Members of the deaf community can participate in their parishes in the same way hearing members can. They can volunteer as lectors, Eucharistic Ministers, ushers, members of the parish council, peer ministers, marriage prep couples, and catechists to name a few. A challenge in communication should not prohibit one from participating fully in one's faith.
"Deaf Ministry is pastoral ministry and the closest model is that of a parish, i.e., a complete spectrum of pastoral and Sacramental care, evangelization, religious education and formation, preparation for the Sacraments, pastoral counseling, and spiritual direction, community building, efforts on behalf of justice and peace, advocacy, and support for the particular needs of the deaf community, and inclusion in the life of the Church. The ministry serves all ages, cradle to grave." Principles for Understanding Deaf Ministry and Guidelines for Hiring Pastoral Ministers for the Deaf Community NCOD, 2002.
Mrs. Eileen M. Colarusso
Coordinator of Deaf Ministry
410-547-5403
410-347-0704 (T)
ecolarusso@archbalt.org
