📍 The Deaf School, Rathmalana – 3rd February 2025, 8 AM
A historic moment unfolded at The Deaf School in Rathmalana as students, teachers, and the deaf community gathered in excitement during the school assembly. This was no ordinary day—it was the long-awaited launch of the Christian Sign Language Glossary in Video Format, a resource designed to bridge the communication gap and bring the Word of God closer to the hearts of deaf students.
This initiative came as a direct response to the heartfelt request made by the deaf school and community during the Crucifixion and Resurrection 2024 launch. Many students had expressed the need for a structured way to learn Christian signs, making it easier for them to understand and engage in Christianity lessons.
The Christian Sign Language Glossary is more than just a collection of signs—it is a gateway to biblical knowledge for deaf students. The video format allows them to learn with clarity, ensuring they grasp the deeper meaning of each Christian term in their own language. This project was developed in collaboration with sign language experts, teachers, and members of the deaf community to ensure accuracy, cultural relevance, and ease of learning.
Recognizing the importance of accessibility, we are also producing a book format alongside the video glossary. This printed version will act as a handy reference, empowering students to use Christian signs confidently in school, church, and daily conversations.
For too long, deaf students have faced challenges in learning about Christianity due to a lack of standardized Christian signs. With the launch of this glossary, a new door of opportunity has been opened. The Ceylon Bible Society had Produced Previously 10 Parables in Sign Language, Birth of Christ and Crucifixion and Resurrection, Book of St.Luke and Book of Acts for the School Students.
The launch event was a moment of celebration and gratitude. The students watched the first clips of the glossary with joy, realizing they now had a tool to help them learn and express their faith more clearly. Teachers and community leaders shared their appreciation for this milestone, recognizing the impact it will have on future generations.
This is just the beginning! The project team is committed to expanding the glossary and more about the Ministry of Jesus Christ with more Christian signs and working on additional educational resources to strengthen the faith journey of the deaf community.
We believe that everyone deserves to know and experience the Word of God—and this glossary is a significant step in ensuring that no one is left behind.