2026–2028 Mission Grant
Description and Prayer

2.

ASL Jesus Signs Workshops

15,000.00

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The Deaf community is one of the largest unreached people groups in the world, with 98% having no knowledge of Jesus Christ. In Texas alone, an estimated 345,000 Deaf individuals remain unreached. Because Deaf people often blend into the general population, they are frequently overlooked, even within churches, where language barriers prevent meaningful access to the Gospel. Interpreters, when present, may lack training on how to communicate Lutheran theology clearly. Deaf Outreach Texas will address this need through three-day American Sign Language (ASL) Jesus Signs workshops designed for Deaf participants who communicate in ASL and hearing persons who wish to communicate the Gospel to them. These workshops provide biblical instruction, worship, fellowship, and culturally appropriate teaching. This mission grant will cover faculty expenses, Bibles, printed materials, food, and technical support.

Lord of the Church, we thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, for the salvation of all people. We ask You to bless Deaf Outreach Texas as it proclaims Your Word to those who have not yet heard the Gospel in their own language. Guide and strengthen the pastors, deaconesses, and volunteers who serve, and provide the resources needed for this work. Open hearts to receive Your truth, and grant faith through Your Word and Spirit. Use these workshops to build Your Church and bring many to the saving knowledge of Christ crucified and risen. In Jesus’ holy name. Amen.

 

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ASL Jesus Signs Workshops
Dylan was baptized as an infant in a Lutheran church, but the congregation struggled to communicate with him because he is profoundly deaf. Support finally reached him at age three and a half, marking the beginning of this deaf ministry. In 2023, Dylan was confirmed by Rev. Dr. John Reinke, who signed his confirmation verse.

ASL Jesus Signs Workshops
Two young deaf men reading the NIRV Bible with ASL support, using clear gestures and expressive facial cues. Many deaf readers struggle with the Bible because ASL is their first language and English is their second.

ASL Jesus Signs Workshops
This is a beautiful story of Avery’s baptism.  He spent many years unable to understand much in hearing churches. Deaconess Becky taught him about Baptism and the Bible story of John baptizing Jesus. Now he enjoys participating in deaf ministry to learn more from the Bible.

ASL Jesus Signs Workshops
Deaconess Becky Jungklaus interpreting during a Mission Festival service. Even though she is deaf, she is able to interpret using the Live Transcribe app, which lets her read her words and sign them at the same time.  She enjoys sharing the deaf‑ministry presentation with the congregation.

ASL Jesus Signs Workshops
Rev. Dr. John Reinke leads a Jesus Signs Workshop.  He encouraged Becky Jungklaus to become a deaconess. Being the only deaf deaconess in Texas, her dream is to lead district‑wide workshops that help hearing people better reach and connect deaf individuals with Jesus.

ASL Jesus Signs Workshops
The NIRV Bible is used in deaf ministry because its shorter sentences and simpler English make it easier for many deaf readers. Standard Bible translations can be challenging for them. The Adventure Bible and Action Bible are also helpful for Deaf individuals and others who struggle with reading.

ASL Jesus Signs Workshops
This man had just learned how to sign the word “heaven,” and he was so excited. The picture was taken at an event in Arizona that explored deaf ministry workshops. 

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