|
Before communication can take place between two parties, both must share a common
language. In the case of the Gospel, this language must be complex enough to communicate
abstract concepts such as God, Sin, Judgement and Salvation. When Dr. Andrew Foster first
went to Africa in 1956, there were no schools for the Deaf in all of Central or West
Africa. His first task was to educate the Deaf; give them a language. Once communication
was possible, then the Gospel could be shared. Here, French students are signing (in
French) "Jesus" "Me" and "Loves".
|
|
Once the
foundation of a language is in place, the students move to a higher level of education.
Armed with a solid education, the Deaf person can gain the skills to seek gainful
employment.
|
|
Christian
Mission for the Deaf emphasizes maintaining a well-rounded character. An excellent example
of this is our work with Youth Camps. These annual retreats allow the Deaf to gather in a
relaxed setting away from the distractions of daily life in order to study the Bible,
enjoy sports and other group activities.
|
|
Important
components of Spiritual growth include Bible study, worship, prayer and fellowship. These
services are coordinated and lead by deaf Believers. Here the Deaf meet as a group for
Church services and Bible study at the Deaf Center in Ibadan, Nigeria. |
|
The work
that Christian Mission for the Deaf does in each country is designed to be self
sustaining. Local Deaf citizens are trained to be both educators and Spiritual leaders.
This approach allows each group to carry the torch and spread the Gospel on to the next
generation.
|
|
The Deaf work
hard and play hard. Having a variety of games like table tennis and volleyball provide a
pleasant social setting and strengthens the Deaf's feeling of community. |