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| Vol. X, No.
1 [Issue 75] | A Christian Newspaper Dedicated To The Deaf
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January-February 2008 |
| But we will give ourselves ... to the ministry of the word --- to Deaf people --- Acts 6:4 |
| *** Making a Difference in the Deaf World, One Deaf Person at a Time *** |
 The Written Word
By Dr. Ted Camp, SWM Co-founder
"So teach us to number our days, that we
may apply our hearts unto wisdom" -- Psalm 90:12.
This 2008 New Year would be a good
time for you to number your days!
How To Number Your Days - It is simple.
The day of your birth began your first day and the
day of your death will be your last day. Now, write
down the number of years you have lived from birth.
Next, multiply the number of years by 365 days. This
is the number of days you have lived.
How Many Days Do You Have Left? The way to
estimate the number of days you have left on earth it to take away
your present number of days lived from an average life
of 70 years or 25,550 days. The remaining number of
days will be, on the average, how many days you have left to
live on the earth.
Example: 25 years old X 365 days =
9,125 days lived and 16,375 days left. 50 years old
= 18,250 days lived and 7,300 days left. 65 years
= 23,725 days lived and only 1,825 left. How many days
have you lived? How many days do you have left? Number your days!
An Average Lifetime - The average person
lives 70 years or 25,550 days. Some people do not
live an average lifetime and some live longer. Now it is
possible that you will not live tomorrow, but even if you
live an average life, it is good to number your days.
The Bible does not say "number your years," but to "number
your days." Why? Because you can only live your life one day
at a time. Yesterday is gone, and there is no promise of
tomorrow, so, today is all you have.
Number Your Days - When you think about life,
you realize that it is a short time from the cradle to
the coffin. God has given you 24 hours a day.
Then the days turn into weeks and weeks into
months and months into years. The years
then quickly pass and fade away.
Number Your Days - Many died this past year
who never thought it would be their last year. This could be
your last year. This year you could hear the doctor say, "Cancer."
You could have an accident or heart attack. Next month your body
may be prepared at the funeral home. Your name could be in the
obituary column of the next paper. The flowers for your
casket could now be at the flower shop. You prepare for life, but
are you prepared for death?
Number Your Days - It is a fact that you were
born and it is also a fact that one day you will die.
What have you done in the days you have already lived? What are you
planning to do with the days you have left? Did you do something
worthwhile today? Have you wasted much of your past? Do you
invest your life in others? The only thing God is interested in
is people. Are you living for things instead of people? I
have often taught, "Don’t love things but love people." How
many days do you have left to invest in your family and friends?
You can't change the past, but you can change the future. Live
right today so you will not have regrets in the future. You need to
number your days and consider your present life.
Number Your Days - How many days do you have
left to live? Think about it! You need to consider about your
present life. The past year of 12 months, 52 weeks,
365 days, 8,760 hours, or 525,600 minutes is gone.
Number Your Days - God has set before you
another year that you must live one day at a time. Make each
day a good day. You cannot change the past, but you can change the
future. Seek to make this the best year you have ever known. Build
good memories that will remain long after you are gone. This
could be your last year. You could die today! No one has
the promise of tomorrow. "Whereas ye know not what shall be on the
morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that
appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away" (James
4:14).
The Bible Compares Life To:
A Tale that has been told (Psalm 90:9).
You start a story, "Once upon a time," and close with
"The End." One day your story will end.
A Dream (Psalm 73:20). Life is compared to
a dream as you lie down to sleep and then wake up and rise.
One night you will go to sleep and wake in eternity. Life is as a
dream.
A Vapor (James 4:14). Life is compared to
vapor or steam that soon disappears. Your life appeared and
one day it will disappear.
A Flower (Job 14:2). Life is compared to a
flower that grows, blooms, and then dies. You bloomed as a
baby and one day you will die as a flower blooms and then dies.
Grass that is soon gone (Psalm 103:15). Life
is compared to grass that grows in the spring and then
dies in the wintertime. You may be living in the springtime of
your life, but one day wintertime and death will come.
A Shadow that quickly fades (Job 14:2).
Life is compared to a shadow that fades when light is gone.
One day the light of life will fade, and you will be in the shadow
of death.
Breath of Life (Genesis 7:22). Life is
compared to breath or air that is needed for life. One day
you will take your last breath.
Step of Death (1 Samuel 20:3). The
very next step you take could be your last step.
Number Your Days - If you died today
would you go to Heaven? If you die without Jesus Christ, it would be
better for you if you had never been born. Make the best
decision you will ever make in your lifetime. Pray now and receive
Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour.
[ ] Yes, I now receive Jesus Christ as my personal
Saviour (John 1:12).
Signed________________________
Mail to me - I will send more helpful literature
Mail to me - I will send you some free helpful
literature. SWM - PO Box 889 - Trenton, GA 30752 |
What’s Up?
 Jesse
& Monica Goins, Spring City, PA, are the proud parents
of a baby girl, Rylie Grace, born November 29, 2007.
Her daddy’s hand is signing, "I love you!" SWM’s
Jim & Terry Bracelin, are proud and excited
grandparents. A new and wonderful experience.
 What’s
Up? Justin &
Rachel Vollmar announce the birth of Julia Madeline, on
January 18, 2008. The Vollmars are members of Hampshire View
Baptist Church, Silver Spring, MD.
 What’s
Up?
Congratulations to SWM’s Paul & Rachel Strosnider who
were married on January 5, 2008, in Florissant (St. Louis
area), Missouri. The wedding was performed by Ted Camp with
Jon & Diane Barr interpreting. The couple will continue to
lead Ephraim Baptist Church of the Deaf in
Florissant. Rachel is finishing up her interpreter’s degree.
 What’s
Up? Pastor Bruce Kelly of
Deaf Baptist
Church of Atlanta, GA, welcomes their new
deaf youth pastor. His name is Joshua Hottle. He and
his wife, Ketsi, and daughter are all deaf. They are
expecting a second baby in March. They both graduated from
Pillsbury Baptist Bible College (MN) in May 2007. Joshua has
a special burden for teenagers. He also works as a P E
teacher at Atlanta Area School for the Deaf.
 What’s
Up?
Some have asked, "What
happened to Bob Hicks?" He is now serving in Florida.
Recently, he and friend, Jerry Vanlandingham, attended the
Deaf Men’s Retreat They are dressed for the retreat’s
favorite event, "Hunting at Night." It was a great
retreat!
What’s Up?
Others have asked,
"Where is Ben Condra?" (Son of SWM’s Reed & Donna
Condra.) Recently he was deployed with the Marines to
California and will be heading to Iraq in early
spring. Please pray for him.
 What’s
Up? SWM is
grateful for volunteers who help make our ministry
possible. One of those volunteers is Marie Bedics.
She learned about Silent Word by attending a Fantastic
Saturday. After that meeting she volunteered to
proofread all the literature that SWM produces. Marie is
involved in the deaf ministry at Valleyview Baptist
Church in Northampton, PA.
 What’s
Up?
Please pray for Joseph & Marcella Cabrera
(both deaf), Philip, Faith & Nina. Marcella is
battling breast cancer and undergoing special Chemo
treatments. Send a card of encouragement: PO Box
1003, Trenton, GA 30752.
 What’s
Up?
Geraldean Davis, age 75, passed away on December 24,
2007, after a sudden illness. She was born deaf and was a
1954 graduate of the Tennessee School for the Deaf,
Knoxville. She was married for 39 years to Rev. William E
(Ed) Davis and was an active member of Temple Baptist
Church, Powell, TN. She grew up in the ministry to the Deaf
at First Baptist Church of Knoxville. She taught children’s
Sunday school classes, sang in the Sign Language choir and
enjoyed teaching American Sign Language.
What’s Up?
Cindy (England) Bullock reports that Heritage
Baptist Church (formerly Thrifthaven Baptist of Memphis)
has finally moved into their new church building. It is
located at 711 N. Houston Levee Rd, Cordova, TN 38018
(Phone: 901-322-6300). Cindy has been a faithful servant in
the deaf ministry for many, many years. Congratulations on
your new building!
What’s Up?
Ronnie Rice is
at home in Virginia under a doctor’s care for upper
respiratory infection. He says he will be as good as new
soon and ready for meetings in February in the Bahama
Islands. He and Peggy enjoyed having all three of their
children at home with them during the Christmas holidays.
This year they are praying for an additional $500 a month
support. You may contact them at: IDMonTrack1@yahoo.com.
Back To Top
|
 Fingertips For InterpretersBy Jon Barr, CT
How to Use An Interpreter - Hearing
(Continued from November/December)
Speak directly to the Deaf person. For
example, say, "What do you think?" rather than asking the
interpreter, "What does he/she think?"
Maintain eye contact with the Deaf person,
but realize that he/she may not be able to keep direct eye
contact with you, as he/she must watch the interpreter.
For interview settings, place the
interpreter slightly behind and to one side of the hearing
speaker. This will help with eye contact.
Do not use the interpreter as an example.
In group settings, speak naturally
at a normal pace. It is not necessary to slow down or speak more
loudly. If the interpreter cannot keep up, either he/she or the
Deaf person may ask the speaker to slow down or repeat
something. Allow only one person to speak at a time.
Interpreters cannot interpret several people speaking at once.
Pause between speakers for the interpreter to catch up
before the next speaker starts. This will reduce confusion and
loss of information
Remember that the interpreter will be a
few words or sentences behind the speaker. Allow time for
the interpreter to catch up before asking questions or expecting
an answer.
Realize that American Sign Language (ASL)
is a language with its own syntax and grammar, and it
includes body language and facial expression. It may be
necessary to rephrase or repeat words or sentences for
clearest communication.
Teach these guidelines to anyone in your
church or business who uses an interpreter. Look for more
helpful guidelines for hearing and Deaf in the next issue.
-- Signing Off!
Back To Top |
 Carlene's Corner
By Carlene Camp, SWM Co-founder
"Happy Birthday Dr. Cathy"
On February 15, Dr. Cathy Rice will
celebrate her 93rd birthday. She is a special lady to me
as well as to many, many others. I first met her in 1967 when a
group of us had the privilege of going to the Bill Rice Ranch in
Murfreesboro, Tennessee, to further our training in deaf
ministry. Sitting in that first class,I soon was aware of her
heart for Deaf people. In 1951, she and her husband founded the
Bill Rice Ranch, a Christian camp established to reach Deaf
people, especially young people, with the Gospel of Jesus
Christ. Since 1951, the Ranch has provided a "free" week of camp
for Deaf young people. This has resulted in thousands of Deaf
people receiving Christ as Savior.
In 1973, our ministry, The Silent Word,
merged with the Bill Rice Ranch. For twenty years my husband and
I had the honor of serving along side Dr. Cathy in the Deaf
ministry.
She became a mentor to me. From her, I
learned story telling, thinking deaf, and teaching Deaf young
ladies. Most of all, I caught her heart and love for Deaf
people.
Dr. Cathy’s second love was for
ladies and teenage girls. Under her Biblical teaching, I
learned much about being the right kind of wife. I saw first
hand the relationship she and her husband had, and that greatly
influenced me. For more than fifty years she has been a teacher
of good things. That teaching has helped to save marriages,
change the lives of many teenage girls, and impact women of
every age.
Dr. Cathy was called the "Princess" by
her late husband, Dr. Bill Rice, because she was so very special
and because she was an example of femininity. She often taught
on this subject.
Here is a lesson straight from
her heart.
 "Being
Feminine"
By Dr. Cathy Rice
Being feminine is a woman’s
birthright! It is always hard for me to understand why any woman
would want to give up this cherished possession.
A tremendous example is given of a lovely,
beautiful, feminine woman in Proverbs 31.
1. A feminine woman is clean and pure in
heart, mind and body. "...a virtuous woman...her price is far
above rubies."
2. A feminine woman makes her husband feel
important. "...her husband doth safely trust in her, so that
he shall have no need of spoil."
3. A feminine woman wants to please her
husband in all her ways. "She will do him good and not evil
all the days of her life."
4. A feminine woman is energetic and
industrious (works hard). "...worketh willingly with her
hands...bringeth her food from afar...riseth also while it is
yet night...with the fruit of her hands she planteth a
vineyard."
5. A feminine woman will not let her figure go.
She keeps herself physically fit. "She girdeth her loins with
strength, and strengtheneth her arms."
6. A feminine woman will want to help her
husband by saving. She is economical and strives to be a good
businesswoman. "...her candle goeth not out by night. She
layeth her hand to the spindle..."
7. A feminine woman is unselfish and
thoughtful, not only to her husband, but to those in her family
and friends round about. "...she reacheth forth her hands to
the needy...her household are clothed with scarlet."
8. A feminine woman will never disguise the
fact that she is female. She will find it easy to convince her
husband that she is a fascinating female if she looks and acts
like one.
"She maketh herself coverings of tapestry;
her clothing is silk and purple."
9. A feminine woman will be soft-voiced and
attentive to her family’s needs. "She openeth her mouth with
wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. She looketh
well to the ways of her household..."
10. A feminine woman will have pride in
herself as her husband’s wife. "Her children arise up, and
call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her."
Being feminine should never be
sacrificed. Your image or presentation should include feminine
dress, grooming, carriage, posture, voice, and language. In
other words, be completely feminine as God made you. For this
you shall be rewarded. "...she shall be praised...her own
works praise her in the gates." This is from my heart!
(Used by permission.)
I personally want to say, "Happy Birthday,
Dr. Cathy. Thank you for your teaching and influence in my life.
I am a better person today because of you." Many of you
reading this article have been impacted by Dr. Cathy Rice. Send
her a birthday card and say, "Thank you."
Address:
Dr. Cathy Rice - 627 Bill Rice Ranch Rd,
Murfreesboro, TN 37128.
For more info on the Bill Rice Ranch in
Tennessee visit their web site:
www.billriceranch.org
This is written because I
care...
This is written because I care...Carlene |
 Diamonds from DianeBy Diane Barr
Pass
One year during a meal at a Christian camp
for the Deaf, a well-known evangelist for the Deaf asked us to
pass (hand from one person to the next) the salt and
pepper. When we asked him if he wanted us to pass them as we
would pass (throw) a football, a conversation was started
that grew all week. As the week passed (progressed), we
had a good time discussing many different uses of the word
pass. Sometimes it is amazing to see how detailed our
language can be and the lessons we can learn from one word.
Some examples of uses of the word pass:
The pass (free ticket) to Heaven was
paid for by the precious blood of Christ (I Peter 1:18,19). Some
people pass for Christians (other people think they are),
but they are not truly saved. They have never trusted in Jesus
as their Savior (Matthew 7:22,23). Don’t pass out (faint)
when someone asks you why you believe the Bible. Be ready to
give an answer (I Peter 3:15). "Commit thy way unto the Lord;
trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass" (cause
it to happen) (Psalm 37:5). When you pass through
(experience) hard times, remember the Lord will be with you
(Isaiah 43:2). Be careful not to pass judgment (judge) on
others. There is often much about the situation that you do not
know (Matthew 7:7) What will you let pass your lips
(speak) today? Let it be something that will help others
(Ephesians 4:29). Don't focus on the less important things and
pass over (ignore) the more important things in your
Christian life (Luke 11:42).
God daily brings many opportunities of
service. Will we pass up (reject) those opportunities, or
will we take advantage of them? We must do the work now, and not
let the time pass by (come to an end). "I must work...
while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work" (John
9:4). When we pass away (die) and pass on (go
ahead) to Heaven, we want to pass the test (be successful
as servants) and receive our reward that will never pass away
(end). Will you hear the Lord say, "Well done, thou good and
faithful servant"?
|
Deaf Teen Talk
By Dr. Bruce Kelly
Teens Contact Me For Help - I Care!
bavkelly@yahoo.com -
www.deafbaptistchurch.com
Suicide:
"While teen suicide
rate declined over 25 percent since the 90’s, suicide is now the 3rd
leading cause of death among young people."
Warning - Teens with alcohol and drug
problems are more at risk for suicide. It is sad that some
teenagers end their lives when most of their life is still before
them. What does the Bible say about suicide? "Neither be thou
foolish: why shouldest thou die before thy time?" Are you a
discouraged or depressed teenager? Please let us help you. Many Deaf
cannot seek counsel from the hearing. I am deaf. I understand you.
I am here to help!
1. God has a great plan for your
life. God created us for a purpose (Genesis 1:26-27).
2. God’s plan is not death, but life
(Romans 6:23). The Lord cares for you (I Peter 5:7).
3. Jesus wants you to have life. "I am come that they might have
life" (John 10:10).
4. Life belongs to God. "...Glorify God in your
body, and in your spirit, which are God’s" (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
God can give you the best life, if you will let Him.
5. Accept Jesus as your Saviour (Romans 10:13).
He can give you a new life.
6. The Lord can give you a new beginning
(II Corinthians 5:17).
7. Turn to the Lord, and He will direct your paths to the best
life (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Teenager, the world can never satisfy your longing soul. Only
God can fill that emptiness within you. "For he satisfieth
the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness." (Psalm
107:9). Don’t waste your life, but decide to let God give you a
new beginning.
Back To Top
 Needed More Good Deaf Leaders
By Dr. Reggie Rempel
BE A GOOD SHEPHERD
The Importance of Salvation -
John 10:14-21
A good shepherd leader should
teach what salvation means to all people. As a leader you
have the responsibility of preaching the Gospel and then
teaching them the Word of God. Your teachings must be clear and
easy so the Deaf can easily understand. The Shepherd sacrifices
his life for His sheep. He dies for the sheep.
I. The Shepherd Trusts the sheep (vs.
14-15)
(vs. 14a) –
Jesus said, " I am the good Shepherd."
(vs.
14b) – Jesus knows you – "my sheep."
(vs. 15) – Jesus sacrifices for you."I lay
down. my life for sheep." Jesus died for you..
Rom. 5:8 – Why did Christ die? You are
sinners.
II. The Shepherd Joins the sheep (vs. 16)
(vs. 16a) - "fold" – flock and sheep
pen.
(vs. 16b) -"hear my voice" means to
listen.
(vs. 16c) – One shepherd – One
savior.
(vs. 27) – "follow me" sheep follow
shepherds.
III. The Shepherd Dies for the sheep (vs.
17-21)
(vs. 17) – God loves Jesus and Jesus loves
you.
(vs. 18) – No one takes his place.
(vs. 19-21) – Division = Jews argued
with Jesus.
(vs. 28) – "I give unto them eternal
life."
A good leader will make salvation a
priority in his ministry. "Whosoever shall call upon the
name of the Lord shall be saved"- Romans 10:13. A good leader
must disciple his people to become mature Christians who
can then help others to be saved and to grow in the Lord. This
is the plan of God.
|
 What Means Words?
By Missionary Allen Snare
Mammon - A Greek word meaning riches, treasure, wealth and
material things in this life and world (Matthew 6:24; Luke
16:9).
Manna - A grain like substance as bread,
considered to be food from Heaven, which fed the Israelites
in the wilderness. It tasted like honey on bread. It foreshadowed
Christ, the true Bread from heaven (John 6:30-58).
Maranatha - An expression used only once in
the Bible (I Corinthians 16:22). It means "The Lord is coming." It
may have been a greeting among early Christians.
Mediator - One who goes between two parties
or sides to bring understanding and peace. Christ is the Mediator
between the sinner and God (I Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 8:6).
Mercy Seat - The lid of the ark of the
Covenant that was inside the tabernacle. Once a year a blood
sacrifice was applied to the mercy seat on behalf of sin (Exodus
25:17-21). The shed blood of Christ was applied to the mercy seat
for sinners (Romans 3:25).
Messiah - This Hebrew name is the same as
Christ. It means "anointed" leader - king - priest of God
(John 1:41; 4:25).
Miracle - Means supernatural acts of God. Man
cannot perform miracles, but only God does miracles which are beyond
the ordinary. The first miracle of God was creating the world
(Genesis 1).
|
 Deaf Missions Report
Missionaries to the Deaf
Send Us Your Reports
We will share Them with Our Readers!
You
Respond - We Report!
Mexico
- Jim Walterhouse
(jwalterhouse@gmail.com) The
new church building was dedicated with 75 in attendance. It was a
great service even though they did not have electricity or water
connected. They ran an extension cord from a neighbor’s house. A
special ordination service was conducted for Francisco to become
pastor of this new church. They are now seeking the Lord’s will as
to where they will serve next. They plan to remain in Tampico and
plan a furlough this new year.
USA -
Bruce Kelly (bavkelly@yahoo.com)
reports a good year at the
Deaf Baptist Church in Smyrna, Georgia. They had 50 Deaf saved
and 25 baptized in 2007. The preaching services of the church can
now be viewed on www.deafbaptistchurch.com. Tell your friends!
USA -
David & Carol
Mundell (342 Forge Dr. Lebannon, OH
45036) David went on a special mission trip to Mexico. Then later
the Mundells traveled to Beijing, China. They taught English at New
Bridge Camp which permitted them to teach Bible stories. As a
result, 14 Chinese young people were saved. They are now conducting
an English "camp" for the Chinese in the Cincinnati area.
Ukraine
Bob & Judy Van Sant (bjvansant@pop.cris.net) -
reports that Judy had to return to Memphis for
a special surgery for a torn rotary cuff which was very painful and
also effected her signing to the Deaf. The surgery was successful
and Judy has returned to the Ukraine. Pray for their annual Deaf
Conference March 10-15, 2008. If interested in attending the Deaf
Conference contact Jon Barr SWM for information - jon@silentword.org
USA
- Eugene Kimmel (hfc-kimmel@juno.com)
Important Prayer Request - Eugene has serious bladder infection. He
must go to a specialist in Florida in January. Please pray that he
can make the appointment and be diagnosed and treated.
Usa
- Pete &
Marianne Leclerc -
(LeclercPete@aol.com) -
Crossroads Deaf Baptist Church
in Indiana reports five Deaf adults and one hearing girl were
saved. They request prayers for more support, spiritual growth of
members, and they need a power-point projector.
USA
- John & Henra Clark
(clarkmin@juno.com) Cornerstone Baptist Temple in Dayton, Ohio -
report that they had 10 saved, 8 baptized and 12 to join the church
this past year. They request prayer for John’s complete restoration
from his heart surgery in March, and for more souls to be saved this
coming year.
Dominican Republic - Eric &
Juana Quinlan are continuing
deputation, presenting their Deaf ministry for support. This past
year they increased their support from 10% to 60% and they
are praying for full support so they can go to Juana’s country of
the Dominican Republic. Contact them for meetings:
ericjuana@yahoo.com
(Join a SWM mission foreign team
- Contact: Office@Silentword.org)
Back To Top |
 SWM International
With Missionary David Bennett
Do you ever wonder about the influence
Silent Word Ministries has around the world?
Samuel Ngunthawm, a Christian man from
Myanmar/Burma, wrote us at Silent Word Ministries back in
September of 2007. Samuel is 26 years of age. He teaches in a
Bible School in Yangon, Myanmar. He makes $40 per month in
salary. With his paycheck of $40 he has to support his
grandparents and himself. Samuel wrote us after finding SWM on
the Internet. He asked about Deaf ministries. Since September I
have been corresponding with Samuel and telling him about my
seminars in India on "How to Reach & Teach the Deaf." Samuel
said he would like to go to India for these seminars so that he
could learn to work with the Deaf in Myanmar who do not know
about Jesus Christ. Eighty-nine percent of the people in Myanmar
are Buddhist.
I told Samuel that I would pay for half of
his plane ticket if he could pay for the other half of it. A
plane ticket would cost him $1200 to go to India. That would be
30 months of his monthly salary! But he told me that he would
pray and trust God to supply the money. I thought that he would
not be able to go to India. Then Samuel decided to go by land.
He would take buses and trains. It would be 3000 miles! It would
take him about 10-12 days to arrive. I doubted he would be able
to get the money even for this cheaper route. Samuel planned on
leaving January 8. However, I did not know if he was able to go
or not. Then on January 15 he wrote from Guwahati, India. Praise
the Lord, Samuel had already gone 700 miles and was in
India! But he still had about 2,300 miles to go. Samuel
does not have much money but is sacrificing to go 3,000 miles
to learn to work with lost Deaf souls in Myanmar! Wow! What a
sacrifice! He will then return by bus the 3,000 miles to begin
working with the Deaf in his home country. Samuel will travel
with me for about three weeks and visit three churches with me.
This means he must listen to my same lectures three times. This
should give him some excellent exposure to the Deaf world.
Millions of Deaf souls around the world are
without Christ.
Pray for Samuel as he returns to Myanmar to
begin his new ministry of reaching the Deaf.
For Information
about SWMI Foreign Missions - Visit
SWMI.org
|
 The Deaf Can
By Ronnie Rice
What Are Your Future Plans?
"Thus saith the Lord; I am
returned unto Zion, and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and
Jerusalem shall be called a city of truth... and they shall be my
people, and I will be their God, in truth and in righteousness"
– Zechariah 8:3-8.
God called them "My people." He promised
to be "their God." God told Zechariah about His future plans
for His people to return to the land of Jerusalem. There He would be
their God and bless them. He promised, "I will be their God in truth
and in righteousness." Today, God also promises future plans for His
people. God has made plans for your future. Those who are saved can
look forward to a bright and wonderful future. God has future plans
for you in Heaven. God has prepared a special place for you in
Heaven. It will be wonderful for the Deaf to one day actually walk
into Heaven. God is preparing a place for you that will be just
right. Some Deaf have favorite cities they love more than others,
but Heaven will become your favorite city. Heaven will be wonderful
for those who are poor. When they arrive in Heaven, they will be
amazed at their new home. Heaven will be wonderful to those who are
crippled. When they arrive in Heaven, they will be able to walk and
run. Heaven will be wonderful for those who are blind. In Heaven
they will be able to see all the great beauty of Heaven. Heaven will
be wonderful for the Deaf. In Heaven the Deaf will hear. They will
not need an interpreter. They will be able to talk with their voices
and hear with their ears. Now the Deaf must listen with their eyes,
but in Heaven, the Deaf can turn their heads and still hear music
and voices. In Heaven you can meet the disciples and the Apostle
Paul. Then you can meet Jesus. It will be wonderful.
The Lord promised, "and they shall be my
people, and I will be their God." In Heaven we shall be His
people and He will be our God. Well, what are your plans for the
future? I hope you will plan to go to Heaven with me. My desire
is to see all the Deaf saved and going to Heaven with me.
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 Because We Are Deaf We Can't
By Mike & Kim Green (Deaf Couple)
From Booklet(D28) "Because We Are Deaf We
Can’t..."
78. Can’t hear someone say "mm-mm-mm" when
it is a good day or something tastes good.
79. We can’t
understand hearing idioms.
Someone told Ted Camp, "Don’t let the cat out of
the bag." You think how cruel Ted was to put a cat in the bag in the
first place! Then you realize it is just another hearing idiom!
80.
We can’t hear our coughs
and the coughs of others. Sometimes
you have a frog in your throat or a loud cough. You cough or clear
your throat and you wonder why hearing people keep staring at you.
You think maybe you smell bad or look funny.
81.
We can’t talk to many
different people at the same time. I
notice that hearing people will talk to each other at the same time.
Deaf people can only see and talk to one person at a time. Others
must watch and cut in when they can get others to stop signing.
82.
We can’t hear noises in
restaurants. You are eating in a
restaurant. You can't eavesdrop on the people at the next table who
are talking about a fly in their soup.
83.
We can’t hear noises at
night. We have a light that flashes
when noises are made. One night it was flashing. I looked at the
sleeping children, then the silent dog. I looked outside and saw
nothing. I finally returned to bed and noticed that as Mike, my deaf
husband, breathed, the light flashed. Surprise! My husband’s
snoring made the light flash. Now, I know what snoring
looks like.
(Send us your stories)
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 Search the Scriptures
By Reed Condra
ABEL
Abel means vanity & shortness of life
Was second son of Adam and Eve (Gen. 4:1)
Was raised by parents who knew the LORD (Gen. 1-4)
Learned from parents about sin - sacrifice - forgiveness (Gen.
1-4)
Learned the need of blood sacrifice for forgiveness (Gen. 3-4)
Was "a keeper of sheep" (Gen. 4:2)
Brought "of the firstlings of his flock" (Gen. 4:4)
Brought "of the fat thereof" (Gen. 4:4)
Offered his sacrifice "by faith" (Heb. 11:4)
God testified (talked) about his sacrifice (Heb. 11:4)
Had respect from the LORD (Gen. 4:4)
Was killed by his brother, Cain (Gen. 4:8)
Eve had other son "instead of Abel" (Gen. 4:25)
Was first person to die on earth (Matthew 23:35; Luke 11:51)
Was killed because Cain's deeds were evil (I John 3:12)
"Obtained witness that he was righteous" (Heb. 11:4)
Jesus called Abel "righteous" (Matt. 23:35)
Was killed because his own works were righteous (I John 3:12)
Was first martyr, or person killed for doing right (I John 3:12)
Book of Hebrews lists him in "Hall of Faith" (Hebrews chap. 11)
His testimony still influences people (Heb. 11:4)
Abel's offering was under the old covenant (Heb. 11:24)
Jesus is "the mediator (Giver) of the new covenant" (Heb. 11:24)
Jesus' death was "better" than Abel's sacrifice (Heb. 12:24)
Abel's sacrifice (OT way) was temporary (Heb. 12:24)
Jesus' sacrifice was "once for all" (Heb. 10:10)
Abel - (ay' behl) Name meaning, "breath, vapor, meadow."
Abel's name is associated with the shortness of life. The second
son of Adam and Eve may have been a twin because Genesis 4:2
literally reads, "And she continued to bear his brother Abel."
His claim to fame is that "by faith Abel offered unto God a more
excellent sacrifice than Cain" (Hebrews 11:4).
Reference {Holman Dictionary}
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Needed
More
Deaf
Missionaries - Pastors
“The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray
ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth
labourers into his harvest” -- Matthew 9:37-38.
Needed
Missionaries: France - Robert Huffman (BIMI) This missionary
pastor states that the church has been built, and they now need
someone to help them reach the many Deaf in their area.
Qualified? Contact: davidbennett@swmi.org
Needed Missionaries:
Great Britain - England Michael Schrimshire (BIMI) - 25 Years in
United Kingdom I personally do not know of any fundamental deaf
ministry in the United Kingdom. I have contacted twelve
independent Baptist churches who desire to start a Deaf
ministry. Deaf ministries could be established throughout
England, if only we had a missionary to show us how to do it.
(Two-handed alphabet required) Qualified & interested ? Contact:
davidbennett@swmi.org
Needed: Deaf Pastor - Michigan A church in
Michigan (near Flint School for Deaf) needs a Deaf pastor. Even
without a Deaf pastor the Deaf church is averaging 30-35 on
Sundays and 15-20 on Wednesday nights. The church is an
Independent, Fundamental, KJV Bible believing church. You must
be willing to minister under the authority of the senior pastor
of the hearing church. You must be willing to teach Sunday
School, preach in all required services and perform the duties
of a pastor. Those qualified and interested send resume: Pastor
Steve Brown - Parkview Baptist Church - 9355 Stark Road -
Livonia, MI 48150. Do not contact SWM.
Needed! Single Missionary
to Serve at SWM Video Department
Video — Internet — Computers
Experience helpful, but not required - Send resume with photo
Contact Jon Barr: 706-657-8000 -
jon@silentword.org
SWM is
presenting open doors of opportunities for pastors and
missionaries.
Please notify of any open doors of opportunities. |
 Chicken Soup For The Deaf
By Jim Bracelin, Vice-President
A Snow Storm
As we held a first time "Deaf Rally"
at a church in Connecticut, it began to rain, and then it turned
to snow. On the day of the meeting, the snow trucks were still
plowing the abundant snow. As I looked at the fresh fallen snow,
I was reminded that the Bible says that even though our sins
would be the color of red, the blood of Jesus can wash them as
white as snow (Isaiah 1:18).
The local church people were concerned that
no one would come to the meeting because of the snow storm. I
was thinking the same thing, but I tried to be positive. When it
was time for the meeting to start, we had a small group of ten
people. After we started, a Deaf girl, with her father, mother,
and sister came into the meeting. We were excited because this
was the first time they had come to the church. They had been
invited many times before, but had just never come. I learned
later that they drove almost one hour through the snow to attend
the meeting. When we presented the Gospel the Deaf girl’s father
prayed to trust Christ as his Savior! How exciting to see God
working! It reminded me that God is not limited by the weather
or situations. He does not need perfect people to work for Him.
God just needs us to be faithful to preach the Gospel, and He
will be faithful to draw people to Himself.
What an exciting lesson!
|
 For Your Information
By Jon Barr, President
Interpreters Need More Training
RID CEU (Continuing Education
Units) Now Available From SWM
More Training - One of the greatest needs I
see among church interpreters is the need for more training.
Often when a person knows a few signs, or knows how to communicate
with Deaf people, he is asked to become a church interpreter.
Suddenly he becomes the interpreter for the Deaf in
everything -- the entire Sunday morning service (music and message),
the deep mid-week Bible study, counseling sessions with the pastor,
and more. Additional training is needed. Interpreting is different
from simply signing and "talking" with Deaf people. Church
interpreters should never be satisfied that they know "enough" Sign
Language. I have been interpreting in church settings for over 31
years, have been certified for 10 years, and am still learning
new things that help me become a better interpreter.
Churches should require their interpreters to seek additional
training through conferences, workshops, mentoring, and other
available opportunities.
Continuing Training Required - Professional
organizations require their members to continually develop their
knowledge and skills. Teachers must attend training sessions.
Doctors must continually keep themselves aware of the latest
developments in medicine. Certified interpreters must attend
a certain number of hours of classes to maintain their
certification.
To Be, or Not To Be ... Certified - There was
a time when church interpreters were advised not to become
certified. I remember many years ago being told that in order to
become certified you had to interpret curse words. A few years ago,
when I was tested and became certified, I realized that church
interpreters had many wrong ideas about the benefits of seeking
additional training and even becoming certified.
It is important that church interpreters be
qualified for the position they fill. Being qualified means they
possess the proper skills to communicate the message clearly and
professionally. Certification is a process designed to establish
a "standard of quality for interpreters" who can become "high-level,
quality interpreters" and continue to develop their skill (from RID
website).
Certification Not Required - Certification is
not usually required to interpret in church. This article is not
written to convince church interpreters to become certified, but
rather, to encourage all church interpreters, regardless of
skill level, to seek to improve their skill.
RID - The Registry of Interpreters for the
Deaf (RID) tests and certifies interpreters based upon established
and proven standards. They require professional and ethical
conduct among members. Certified interpreters are required to
receive 80 hours of training, or 8 Continuing
Education Units (CEUs) every four years. This helps them continue to
develop and improve.
SWM Now Offers CEUs - Silent Word Ministries
is pleased to announce that RID CEUs will now be offered in
some meetings. Thanks to Sign Language Associates - Greg
Camp, Director of Virginia Operations, for sponsoring SWM
meetings and events.
ASL Institute - ASLI provides a Christian
setting to help church interpreters improve their skills and
knowledge. These conferences are designed to be affordable and
profitable for church interpreters of all levels. Pastors are
highly encouraged to send church interpreters to this annual
training. There are currently two locations - South and North.
(See ad on pages 4 and 11.)
Fantastic Saturdays are all-day workshops
that focus on deaf ministry topics. Deaf people are present at each
of these meetings. That is an added benefit to interpreters and
signers who want to practice communicating with Deaf people.
FingerTips Seminars are Friday and
Saturday ASL training sessions designed specifically for local
churches. These multi-church meetings are available upon request in
many areas.
SWM is here to help in all areas of the deaf
ministry. Interpreters, let us help you learn, grow, develop,
and improve! Visit www.SilentWordMinistries.org for more
information.
Back To Top
2008 Fantastic
Saturdays
-
Deaf Day Schedules
New: RID CEUs
offered
Mar 23 FS - Palm Springs Drive Baptist
Church, Pastor Scott Carlson - Altamonte Springs, FL - J.
Barr
Mar 01 FS *Piney Grove Baptist Church,
Pastor John Smith - Trenton, GA - Jon Barr & SWM Team
Mar 08 - FS Grace Gospel Church, Pastor
Keith Wiebe, Huntington, WV - Jon Barr
Mar 08 - DD First Baptist Church, Pastor
Rocky Shanks, Frederica, DE - Jim Bracelin
Mar 29 DD - Signs of Life Baptist Church,
Pastor Mike Remington - Phoenix, AZ - Jon Barr
Apr 05 FS Puente Hills Baptist Church -
Pastor Ted Trisler - Los Angeles Area - Covina, CA - J. Barr
Apr 05 FS Northport Baptist Ch., Pastor
Ayars, D-L Cindy Knakal, Long Island, NY - Jim Bracelin
Apr 12 DD - Southside Baptist Church -
Pastor Ken Walters - Rock Hill, SC - Ted Camp / Jon Barr
May 03 DD Independent Baptist Ch., Pastor
Mike Creed, DL: George Kerwood, Clinton, MD - Bracelin
Help us
make this the annual big deaf event in your
area. The day will be filled with workshops, fun, fellowship and food. Contact the local
church for registration - Look in the
church ads for E-mail.
Must pre-register with SWM for
CEUs - See fliers at
www.SilentWordMinistries.org
  *Sign Language Associates,
Inc., an approved RID CMP sponsor, is pleased to
sponsor Continuing Education Units for
these events. These program are offered for (.5)
CEUs per session in the Content Area of
Professional Studies and has an Instructional
Level of introductory. Cancellation Policy: If
you must cancel with less than 15 days notice
you will forfeit your registration.
Cancellations made with more than 15 days notice
will be offered cash refund of at least 90% of
the registration fee. A 10% administration fee
is assessed upon registration.
Back To Top
Click Here For Information about ASLI
in New York
Sparrow
Bush, New York - July 24-26, 2008
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