Res. 1-04 — To Give Thanks for 130 Years of Deaf Ministry

WHEREAS, The Synod has been engaged in organized ministry among deaf individuals and communities since the nineteenth century, and the Synod formally adopted “Deaf Missions” as an official mission program in 1896; and

WHEREAS, For approximately 130 years , the Gospel of Jesus Christ has been proclaimed among deaf individuals through preaching, teaching, catechesis, mercy, Lutheran education, and the administration of the Means of Grace; and

WHEREAS, The Synod gives thanks for the faithful service of pastors, teachers, deaconesses, interpreters, congregations, missionaries, recognized service organizations (RSOs), and lay leaders who have served deaf individuals and communities throughout these years; and

WHEREAS, The Lutheran Deaf Mission Society and other ministry partners continue to support evangelism, catechesis, leadership development, church worker formation, and congregational outreach among deaf individuals and their families; and

WHEREAS, Opportunities remain for continued outreach, pastoral care, catechesis, and incorporation of deaf individuals and families into the life of Christ’s Church; therefore be it

Resolved, That the Synod in convention give thanks to Almighty God for 130 years of deaf ministry and for the faithful servants through whom He has blessed His Church; and be it further

Resolved, That congregations, districts, R SOs, and other ministry partners be encouraged to support and strengthen ongoing deaf ministry efforts throughout the Synod; and be it finally

Resolved, That the Synod in convention recognize with thanksgiving the faithful witness of deaf Christians, pastors, church workers, congregations, R SOs, and other ministry partners who have served and continue to serve among deaf communities.