Catholic Ministry for Deaf

The Christian life bears fruit in communion; in faith, hope and charity shared between persons on our common journey towards communion with God. When one or more of the five senses is impaired, the natural means to achieve and sustain such a communion is weakened, but the desire for it remains and is, if anything, increased by the very fact that the challenges are so real. The Catholic MInistry for the Deaf exists in this context, to provide the means to build communion among the Deaf and between the Deaf and the wider community, to make real that beautiful truth of the Catholic faith; that we are never alone.

The community is made up of individuals of great strength, the challenge is seeing our greatest strength not in ourselves alone but in the community as a unified whole. To achieve this, the community needs to transcend the functional role that it naturally fulfils, and be a place and a people where it is okay not to be strong because we find our strength in the other, and ultimately in the Lord. As we shape the future of the community around the pillars of prayer, formation, and service, it is my hope that by the grace of God we will soon be able to achieve this.

Simon Phillips OSB, Obl.

Mission

That our vision be realised in the concrete realities of the Christian life of the Deaf community in communion with the Church by:
raising awareness of the Deaf and their needs within our church communities, so as to foster and build closer bonds of charity;
reaching out to Deaf members of our church communities, so as to provide support for their growth in faith and love of God and neighbour;
providing catechesis and spiritual development through regular formation programmes, so as to enrich the faith of Deaf Catholics and to evangelise;
facilitating the development of sign language interpreters and those who wish to sign socially, so as to build greater understanding between the Deaf and the wider community, and allow for the interpretation of Holy Mass and formations;
building resources in sign language for worship and instruction in the Catholic faith so as facilitate active participation in the life and prayer of the Church; and,
supporting each other as a community, so as to make our journey together one of personal social and spiritual growth.

Vision

That all God's children may with one voice unite in language of praise for our salvation in Jesus Christ, and that sign language may resound with all the tongues of creation in worship of the One God and in the proclamation of His gospel.

What we do

Intepreted Mass

(Interpreted Sunday Mass)

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Deaf Mass

(The Mass is conducted in sign language)

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Sacramental Preparation

(Baptism, Confirmation, Reconciliation, Matrimony)

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RCIA

(Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults)

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Spiritual Formation

(Faith Formation, Deaf Retreat)

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Sign Language Class

(BSL)

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Community Life

(Social Gathering, Fellowship, Workshop)

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Sunday Mass Reading Video

CMfD are delighted to offer a truly unique and deeply personal way to experience the Sunday Mass readings. Our dedicated Deaf members have lovingly crafted weekly videos, sharing the scriptures in the expressive and beautiful language of sign. These videos aren't simply translations; they are heartfelt expressions of faith, tailored specifically for our Deaf community. By witnessing the Word of God in our own language, we can fully engage with its meaning, allowing for richer personal reflection and a deeper connection to our spiritual journey. These videos serve as a powerful bridge, ensuring that every member of our community has the opportunity to fully participate in the liturgy and find spiritual nourishment.

The Sunday reading video are available for Year A, B and C and include First Reading, Second Reading and Gospel. These videos are a valuable resource for both sign language interpreter and Deaf individuals who are signing the Sunday Mass reading during the mass. Find videos here: [Click Here]

Prayer Video

In the heart of our ministry, we understand the profound importance of prayer, a direct conversation with God that transcends spoken words. Recognizing the unique beauty and accessibility of sign language, our dedicated Deaf members have lovingly created a collection of prayer videos. These videos are not merely translations; they are heartfelt expressions of faith, crafted in the visual language that resonates deeply within our community. Each prayer, presented with clarity and grace, allows us to connect with God in a way that is both personal and profound. We believe that prayer, when expressed in our native language, becomes a powerful bridge, fostering a deeper spiritual connection.

Find videos here: [Click Here]