Reaching out through sign language: When communication becomes an encounter

A hand extended in greeting. Two hands joined in prayer. A hand placed on a shoulder as a sign of comfort. Even before words, our hands speak a universal language. What if they could do even more? What if they could tell a story, share a prayer, convey the warmth of a song? This is the promise of sign language and the tools that enhance communication for all. Far from being a simple technique, learning to communicate with the deaf community is an invitation to encounter, to discover that a simple movement of the fingers can build a bridge stronger than thousands of words.

In the first article in this series, "Understanding the Needs of Deaf People in the Church," we explored the reality of isolation experienced by many Deaf and hard-of-hearing people in our churches. We highlighted the various challenges that hinder their full participation in worship: communication barriers, lack of physical accessibility, or the impact of ableism and audism. 

In light of these findings, the theological imperative of inclusion became clear: the Church, as the body of Christ, must value the unique gifts of each member, including those with disabilities. We emphasized the crucial importance of accessibility and effective communication in building bridges and fostering a true sense of belonging.

Today, we will discuss concrete solutions. How can we put this intention to welcome others into practice? We will explore the fundamentals of sign language and present the many tools and technologies available to transform communication into a true encounter within our faith communities.

Introduction to sign language

American Sign Language (ASL) is the preferred language of the Deaf community (with a capital "D"). It is used by people who are deaf, hard of hearing and deaf-blind. ASL is not  mime; it is a rich and complex visual-gestural-spatial language with its own grammar rules. Facial expressions and body language are an integral part of the communication process.

It is important to note that, like spoken languages, sign language is not universal; it varies from country to country and may even have regional nuances. For example, there are different sign languages for deaf-blind people, such as tactile sign language, where the receiver places their hands on the signer's hands to feel the shape, movement and location of the signs.

The distinction between "Deaf" (with a capital D) and "deaf" (with a lowercase d) is crucial: the capital "D" indicates cultural deafness and an identity within the Deaf community.

It is important to deconstruct the misconception that most Deaf people read lips. In reality, most do NOT. Even the best lip readers can only understand about 30% of what is said. Lip reading is a complex process where many words look exactly the same on the lips, and about 50% of spoken English involves little or no lip movement.

To learn sign language, churches can offer regular introductory classes to their congregation and the community. Ideally, a Deaf or hard of hearing person should teach the class, as it is their language. Online resources, such as ASL University, Start ASL, or Lesson Tutor, offer free or low-cost classes. The United Methodist Committee on Deaf and Hard of Hearing Ministries (UMC DHM) also offers an ASL video glossary of religious terms on UMC.org. In addition to classes, events such as Deaf Awareness Week can promote learning and awareness.

Other tools and technologies to facilitate communication

In addition to sign language, a wide range of tools and technologies can facilitate communication and inclusion for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. It is always recommended to ask the individuals involved what they need in order to participate fully.

1. ALS - Assistive Listening Systems: These systems transmit sound directly to users, minimizing background noise, echoes, and reverberation.

• Hearing loops (T-coils): Considered the most user-friendly option, hearing loops send sound directly tohearing aids or cochlear implants equipped with telecoils (T-coils). Ibrahim Dabo testified that the experience of hearing loops has "revolutionized his hearing world," offering clarity and closeness to speech that he never imagined possible.

• FM systems: These systems transmit the audio signal via radio waves to personal receivers. They offer excellent sound quality and are portable.
• Infrared (IR) systems: These use invisible light beams to transmit sound. They work best in dark rooms and cannot penetrate solid barriers, making them ideal for confidential transmissions.
• The United Methodist Committee on Deaf and Hard of Hearing Ministries (DHM) offers grants to help churches fund the installation of this equipment.

2. Captioning and transcription services:

• Captioning involves converting audio content into text and displaying it on a screen. It can be "open" (visible to everyone) or "closed" (activated by the user).
• CART (Communication Access Realtime Translation) is a real-time, word-for-word transcription service that converts speech to text, performed by qualified stenographers and projected onto a screen or displayed on a laptop. Remote CART is also an option. Unlike other options, CART is accurate and provides a complete transcript.
• C-Print is a computer-assisted transcription system that provides a condensed version of the spoken words, displayed simultaneously on a second computer or television screen
• CAN (Computer-Assisted Notetaking) is a system where a typist summarizes the spoken words displayed on a computer screen or wall
• Applications such as Otter.ai or Microsoft products (PowerPoint 2016 or newer) can generate captions that can be displayed on a computer, phone or tablet for personal use

3. Visual aids and printed materials:

• Complete bulletins including Scriptures, prayers, songs and announcements are essential, as signers cannot hold a hymn book
• Sermon notes or outlines can be provided in advance
• Large print materials are necessary for deaf-blind individuals
• The use of multimedia and ASL videos enriches services. Adequate lighting on speakers and interpreters is also crucial, avoiding backlighting and maintaining sufficient brightness.

4. Interpersonal communication strategies and etiquette:

• Always ask the individual about their preferred method of communication
• Get the person's attention before speaking, by gently tapping their arm or shoulder
• Speak clearly, at a moderate pace, without shouting or exaggerating lip movements
• Face the person and do not cover your mouth
• Look at the person, not the interpreter
• Be patient, repeat or rephrase if the message is not understood
• Using paper and pencil can be helpful if verbal communication is difficult
• For deaf-blind people, this may involve the use of tactile sign language, tracking or sighted guides, as well as clear verbal cues
• Avoid offensive terms such as "hearing impaired" or "deaf and dumb"

5. Telecommunications devices:

• Amplified and captioning phones are available, including smartphone apps that caption phone conversations
• TTY (TeleTypewriter) devices enable text-based communication
• Video relay systems are essential for Deaf people who use sign language for phone calls

6. Hearing aids and cochlear implants: Although not external communication tools per se, hearing aids amplify sound and cochlear implants provide electronic sound perception, thereby facilitating communication. It is important for hearing care professionals to educate consumers on all the features of their devices.

Conclusion

Communication is a two-way street that requires conscious effort on everyone's part. When we embrace sign language, use available assistive technologies and practice respectful communication etiquette, our churches can create environments where the Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals can participate fully and feel a true sense of belonging. It is when we reach out in understanding that we build bridges and allow everyone to share their unique gifts with the Body of Christ.

The next article in the series will focus on "Forming a Pastoral Team Dedicated to Deaf People." In this third article in the series, we will look at how to build a dedicated ministry team, train volunteers and provide sensitive, spiritual support. It is by focusing on training, understanding needs and making a concrete commitment to the Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals that we as a faith community can expand to include everyone. 

This series of articles was written based on information and various documentary resources from ResourcesUMC.org, UMC.org & United Methodist Committee On Deaf And Hard-Of-Hearing Ministries.

Chadrack Tambwe Londe coordinates French-language content in Africa for United Methodist Communications and is a UM News correspondent. He is based in Congo.