Deaf Church and disability

Celebrating the inclusion, contribution and ministry of D/deaf and disabled people in the church community.

The Church community is only complete when all are welcome.

In the Diocese of Oxford, we celebrate the inclusion, contribution and ministry of D/deaf and disabled people, recognising that the church community is only complete when all are welcome, and the partnership that should exist between D/deaf and disabled people and those who are hearing and non-disabled.

We aim to support parishes, deaneries and the diocese in ensuring that our buildings, activities and services are welcoming and accessible for D/deaf and disabled people. This work includes mentoring, disability access audits for churches; disability awareness sessions for parish or deanery groups; other forms of training, and individual advice to parishes on disability issues.

You can also find out more about the work being done in the Deaf Churches by going to the website of the Oxford Council for the Deaf and Hard of hearing (the link is here). For an introduction to D/deaf culture and some of the challenges faced by this community, there is an excellent article here written by Lucy Cooper.

Prayer

Loving God, we pray for all D/deaf and disabled people across the world.

May all D/deaf and disabled people know your love.

May your Church recognise and value the gifts and skills of D/deaf and disabled people.

Together, may we worship you freely, serve you willing,

and be truly your Church in all our diversity.

Amen.