Communication is an essential process that connects people through the exchange of messages, ideas, emotions, and feelings, influencing human interaction. However, for millions of deaf people in Brazil, this connection faces challenges. According to the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), the number of individuals with hearing impairment in the country exceeds ten million. Given this reality, the need for social inclusion and effective communication through Libras (Brazilian Sign Language), becomes increasingly urgent.

To meet this demand, the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) in Juazeiro, Bahia, has been offering a free Libras course since 2023. The project has already trained around 60 people, encouraging inclusion and interaction with the deaf community in the region.

While religious environments with accessibility are dedicated only to welcoming and adapting their physical spaces to guarantee access for people with disabilities, accessible churches go further, as they invest in inclusive practices, such as the training of new sign language interpreters, being sensitive to these issues. questions. An accessible church also adapts its liturgy to ensure all members participate in worship.

Increasing Accessibility

Reflecting on the need to help create churches that are welcoming to all groups, Darticléia Cavalcanti, a student on the course, shared what motivated her to join the project: "I realized that in my church there was a need to communicate with deaf people. There, we have deaf people attending services and, often, I didn't know how to interact. When I saw the movement to implement practices to make it accessible, I was immediately interested and wanted to participate," said Cavalcanti.

"To every nation, tribe, tongue, and people."

Participants understand the biblical passage of Revelation as a call to spread the gospel in a way that is accessible to all, without exclusion. “An everlasting gospel to proclaim to those who dwell on the earth, to every nation, tribe, tongue and people” (Revelation 14:6, NIV), they said.

Paulo José, the course's instructor, expressed his joy at seeing the motivation of the class: "When we get together here, it's always very enjoyable because, with each class, we understand the importance of Brazilian Sign Language. All people must be assisted, and we must also bring the deaf closer to Jesus, since God himself states that the message of salvation must reach all languages. I not only use Libras in my work, but I also use them to help people get to know Jesus," he stated.

New Classes

ADRA will soon begin its third Libras course.

The original article was published on the South American Division Portuguese website.