The Deaf Bulletin 2017 Issue 6
INCLUSION IN THE CHURCH AND THE SENSE OF BELONGING IT BRINGS
BY BARBRA NYANGAIRI
I recently had the privilege of attending a camp meeting for people with disabilities organised by the Seventh Day Adventist Church. I observed with deep emotion as 20 ladies who are Deaf sang in Sign Language dressed in their beautiful church uniform. I began to think about how the church and belonging to one in our Zimbabwean context creates a sense of identity and belonging.
I saw how proudly the ladies carried themselves, with a new found dignity. The church uniform has a certain value that it carries for those who wear it and there are processes attached. I felt the pride and confidence in their signing as they sang the song about the love of God.
I thought about many Deaf people who have stopped fellowshipping with others because they do not hear the message and understand the values of the church where they went without the services of a Sign Language interpreter.
It was a beautiful moment for me and I thank the Seventh Day Adventist Church for its great efforts of inclusion. I look forward to seeing many churches being inclusive and increasing the choices available to Deaf people in Zimbabwe.
Other Topics in this bulletin
- MAI CHISAMBO SHOW: PROMOTING INCLUSION THROUGH SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETATION. By Rosemary Mundhluli.
- MY STORY: TARIRO MASHUNGU.
- INTERNATIONAL WEEK OF THE DEAF.