I pulled into the parking lot on a crisp fall morning, and started heading into Mass. Two strangers noticed me and gestured to me—I waved. Another man started gesturing as well, and I realized, Oh no. They see me, a newcomer, and they’re welcoming me. But I don’t know sign language.
A priest friend had invited me to attend a Mass for the Deaf in the Washington, DC area, and I was unprepared for just how much of a minority I would be. There was no music. The first and second readings that day were articulated by American Sign Language (ASL) with a hearing interpreter quietly speaking aloud the reading from somewhere in the front. The Gospel and homily were interpreted right up front next to the priest. Prayers were recited in ASL. The sign of peace was like a family reunion where everyone waved to everyone else and there were so many smiles. I literally wanted to go home and learn everything about ASL (still a work in progress).
The joy from the parishioners was undeniable. However, my biggest takeaway from my experience was learning how hard it is for Deaf people to participate in sacraments—especially Reconciliation. Imagine going into the sacred moment to confess your sins, and needing the help of an interpreter (who, in the small community, is usually a family member or friend). The harsh reality is that many simply do not go. And while there are great accommodations to be made, especially mentioned in the Guidelines for the Celebration of the Sacraments with Persons with Disabilities, there is a true need for more priests to learn and incorporate ASL into their parishes nationwide.
There are only a handful of Deaf priests in the US, and it is thought that under 5% of the Deaf population is affiliated with any religious organization. It’s very difficult to experience the fullness of the Mass and the beauty of the Faith without the most basic accommodations. There is a critical need within the Church to welcome and incorporate Deaf members of every congregation into the Body of Christ.
By studying and preaching about St. Francis de Sales, a patron saint of the Deaf, priests can help parishioners understand and welcome others. By learning basic ASL or having interpreters trained in Catholic terminology, parishes can broaden their reach. By volunteering to preside over Masses solely for Deaf communities, awareness can be brought and spread throughout a diocese.
Let’s work together to create an environment that can accept “Bless me Father, for I have sinned” in ASL or written forms of communication—so that all of our brethren can partake in the rich sacraments of the Faith.
