The Cordillera Seventh-day Adventist Church in Chillán, Chile, organized a special worship service in sign language on April 11, 2026, in collaboration with the Adventist Possibility Ministries, promoting greater inclusion of the deaf community.
The initiative brought together church members and visitors, creating an accessible environment that allowed deaf participants to engage directly with the biblical message.
An inclusive worship experience
The service centered on the theme “Saved or Lost” and included a testimony from José Palma, a church member who shared his personal experience as part of the message.
Claudia Poloni, coordinator of the Adventist Deaf Ministry, contributed to the program as an interpreter and organizer. Her involvement helped create a welcoming setting that encouraged participation from members of the deaf community, including those not previously connected to the church.
Poloni said the event fostered a sense of belonging and demonstrated the importance of expanding inclusive initiatives.
Expanding access through digital platforms
The service was also broadcast online through the church’s digital platforms, as well as those of the South Central Conference and the Chilean Union, extending its reach beyond the local congregation.
Organizers said the broadcast allowed more individuals to access the service and highlighted the value of creating spaces where faith can be shared without communication barriers.
A ministry focused on inclusion
The event was organized as part of the work of Adventist Possibility Ministries, which seeks to support individuals facing various life challenges and promote inclusion within church communities.
“Reaching the non-Adventist deaf community was one of the main objectives of this activity, especially considering that it is the first program of its kind in Chile,” said Carolina Gabilán, a representative of the ministry.
Challenges and projection of inclusion
Gabilán noted that while progress has been made, challenges remain in achieving full inclusion. She emphasized the importance of addressing both physical and attitudinal barriers and fostering a culture where all individuals are valued and able to participate fully in church life.
Church leaders said initiatives like this reflect a continued commitment to creating inclusive environments that support participation and community connection.
The original article was published on the South American Division Spanish news site.
