“Deaf people love dramas!” I’ve heard this phrase often from different people involved in Deaf ministry.
Drama, storytelling, and jokes (with “play on words”) are popular in the Deaf-World. Many deaf people love to act in dramas and tell interesting stories and funny jokes. If you were to observe a group of deaf people having a conversation, you would probably witness storytelling of recent events or simply a story.
When you read through the Bible, you will discover many, many stories. In fact, I have learned that stories fill at least 60% of the content in the Bible. Jesus used stories (parables) to teach people during His days on earth.
When teaching the Bible to deaf people, consider teaching the different stories of the Bible. Memorize the stories and then sign them to your audience. Consider getting a group of actors together, rehearse the stories, and perform them to your congregation or group. Wear costumes and utilize props to make your presentation more interesting.
In my ministry experience with deaf youth and adults, I have shared different Bible stories with them. Sometimes after signing a story to them, I will ask them to dramatize a Bible story several times. The first time, I ask them to dramatize the story in regular fashion. The second time, I ask them to dramatize the story in “fast-forward” motion. The third time, I usually ask them to dramatize the story in “slow motion”. Other variations sometimes include presenting the dramas through fingerspelling only or facial expressions only (no signing).
Whether you present the Bible stories by storytelling or using dramas, be sure to present it accurately. Don’t add too many things to the story that are not recorded in the Bible. Follow the story as closely as possible when you share it with others.
Don’t limit this tip to a church setting. Dramas are wonderful for evening devotional time at home with your family, at a summer camp setting, or weekly Bible study gathering.
Have fun!
