International (MNN) — An international company Deaf Ministry Coalition fills communication and information gaps in the mission field and on the home front. “This core group grew out of a conference called Finishing the Task back in 2019 when there was a real focus and highlight on Deaf ministry,” International DOORsaid Rob Myers.

“It became clear that there needed to be a platform for Deaf ministries to work together more broadly, as well as for hearing organizations to get information about Deaf ministry.”

Deaf believers made the initial plans for this coalition in January 2020. But then a pandemic arrived and priorities had to change. Now, with systems restored and needs under control, Deaf leaders can put their plans into action.

“The hope is that the DMC will launch a website, as well as a Facebook page, to provide best practices, basic information and give people the opportunity to network together,” Myers said.

Explaining how the system would work, Myers says, “If a departmental organization is working in a particular country and they would like to know about Deaf resources or Deaf people working [in the same] country, they can reach out, get that information, and get connected to a local ministry.

(Photo courtesy of DOOR International)

Regional or global approach?

Deaf ministerial coalitions already exist on a regional basis in Africa, the Asia Pacific, Europe-Eurasia, and the Americas. However, most of them only focus on sign language Bible translation.

“While these regional organizations will play a key role in Bible translation, the issue is much broader than that,” says Myers.

The Deaf Ministry Coalition seeks to inform and connect believers in all areas of Deaf ministry: evangelism and discipleship, church planting, leadership development, youth ministry, and more. Additionally, the DMC takes a global approach, while regional alliances serve a specific audience.

Pray that the Deaf Ministry Coalition can streamline global efforts and make them more effective.

“Having this coalition [helps] make sure there is good deaf leadership [in the field]says Myers.

“It’s easy for Deaf ministry to start with good intentions, but not necessarily good approaches.”

Ask the Lord to give deaf leaders wisdom and innovation. It can be daunting to start something new.

“We have so many great Deaf leaders within DOOR and several other Deaf organizations coming together to see this Deaf Ministry coalition happen,” says Myers.

In the header image, deaf leaders discuss the Deaf Ministry Coalition. (Photo courtesy of Deaf Missions)