Why does the International Mission Board have a strategy for reaching the Deaf?

It’s a common misconception that Deaf people can easily relate to the culture in which they live. However, even though Deaf might share religious traditions, clothing styles, and cultural tendencies with people in their communities, they find more common ground with other Deaf people—even with those not from their home culture.

Deaf communities have distinct cultures and sign languages, but they share one great need: they need the gospel.

Around the globe, Deaf communities have distinct cultures and sign languages, but they share one great need: they need the gospel. Historically, there weren’t many opportunities to meet that need.

One worker remembers driving home from church with her father a number of years ago—both heartbroken after learning there weren’t options for her father, who is Deaf, to be involved in international missions.

We’re happy to say this is no longer the case. The opportunities are limitless for Deaf and hearing men and women to bring the gospel to Deaf who have never seen the name of Jesus signed in their language. The IMB’s heart is set on sending missionaries to serve among the Deaf.

The gospel is for all people, and the Great Commission is for every believer, both hearing and Deaf.

Let’s go.