DEAF & HARD OF HEARING MINISTRY REPORT

This past year, like the one before, was significantly influenced by the pandemic however, God was still at work and the following bullet points will help you understand what’s been going on in Deaf ministry under the umbrella of TABCOM.

 Two remote consultations with local churches considering starting a sign language ministry.  Updated regional directory of local churches with either Deaf leadership or interpreters.  Monthly discipleship with a Deaf Blind woman in the Boston area.  Offered four meetings for a Community of Learning for Christian interpreters, focusing on interpreting lyrics to worship music, fingerspelling, cochlear implants and improving receptive skills.  Monthly remote prayer meetings via Zoom lead by Deaf leaders, in ASL.  Co-lead a fall workshop with Sarah Vaughn Smith on interpersonal skills for Deaf ministry.

Like everyone else, I switched from having in person events to the use of Zoom, which is a mixed blessing. There is always a risk of technical problems making it frustrating, but also making it possible to still have events. I am grateful for the technology, difficulty and all!

I started a six-month sabbatical in March and in September, will reassess and decide what to do going forward. I am considering writing a book about what you don’t learn in college or workshops but are needed to sustain longevity in Deaf ministry.

Thank you for praying. Please get in touch with me if you have any questions. Respectfully Submitted, Anne Freeman Coordinator AnneFreeman14@gmail.com, (617) 447-5477

2021 ANNUAL REPORT 31