International (MNN) — You probably have God’s Word at your fingertips in countless ways, whether through a traditional print Bible, audio Bible, or Bible app. Deaf communities aren’t quite so privileged.
“Reading is a sound-based activity,” Rob Myers of DOOR International says. “We grew up with a language and then learned to read it, but that’s not true for Deaf people. While Deaf people may be around written Scripture, many of them have been missing information about that Scripture for many years.”
Deaf communities need God’s Word in a native sign language instead of written Bibles. More about that here.
“There are almost 400 different sign languages. Less than half of them have active translation projects started yet,” Myers says.
There’s a collective effort underway to produce more sign language Bible translations.
“We have connections to 70- to 80 percent of the translation projects that are happening out in the field in one way or another, and we’re grateful to be able to collaborate with partners and support efforts that are happening,” Myers says.
“Everybody recognizes we need to increase the speed at which sign language translation is happening, and no matter what, we need to make sure that we keep or increase the quality of translation,” he adds.
“It’s critical that it (the translation) be good quality because you’re setting theology for generations.”
Translation consultants play a critical role in the process. “Translation consultants will walk alongside teams of native signers, and together, they’ll ensure that the quality and accuracy of that translation is spot on,” Myers explains.
DOOR initiated the Translation Resources Development (TRD) project in 2021, which wrapped up in early 2023. This groundbreaking two-year project offers over 30 hours of training material, empowering Deaf ministry with vital resources for sign language translation teams.
(Photo, caption courtesy of DOOR International)
In 2025, DOOR wants to streamline its training for Deaf and Hearing translation consultants, bringing it from many years down to three.
“We’d love to see Deaf translation consultants be trained and deployed into the field because they connect the best with other Deaf teams,” Myers adds.
“We’re also focused on increasing the number of video resources in sign language for translators and translation consultants, resources that … further explain the Scripture, that help those teams translate quickly and grasp the deep meaning.”
Centuries of oppression keep the Deaf isolated and away from the Gospel truth. Prayer helps remove obstacles like these, and DOOR is always looking for more prayer partners. Download the latest DOOR prayer calendar to intercede for Deaf communities and ministry workers.
“This is a significant endeavor. It will require some focused time from our leaders, so we ask people to pray that they can maintain that focus,” Myers says.
When you donate to DOOR International, you help Deaf leaders receive the tools and training they need to fulfill the Great Commission. Consider becoming a financial partner today.
The header image depicts a Consultants-In-Training meeting at DOOR’s Kenya campus. (Photo courtesy of DOOR International)
