Episode 28: Sign Language as a Tool and a Ministry

Summary In this episode, Terrie Hellard-Brown explores the importance of sign language, sharing inspiring books and stories about deafness, autism, and other challenges. She discusses how these stories can foster empathy, creativity, and ministry opportunities within families and communities. This first aired on Books that Spark podcast on 10/26/2020. Key Topics Sign language and its role in ministry and communication Children's books that teach about deafness, autism, and disabilities The story of James Castle and artistic determination Biographies of William Hoy and Helen Keller Teaching sign language to children and cultural etiquette Ministry opportunities for reaching autistic and deaf communities Character lessons about perseverance and compassion Sound Bites "Understanding my sister helps me love her more." "Art is a powerful way to communicate beyond words." "Everyone is uniquely made by God." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sign Language and Its Significance 01:09 Personal Connection to Sign Language and Ministry 02:01 Book: I Have a Sister, My Sister Is Deaf 04:23 Book: Silent Days, Silent Dreams by Alan Say 10:28 Biographies of William Hoy and Helen Keller 12:58 Learning Sign Language: Resources and Tips 17:02 Ministry Opportunities and Resources for Disabilities 20:32 Encouragement for Inclusive Ministry and Final Thoughts Resources I Have a Sister, My Sister Is Deaf by Jean Whitehouse Peterson: https://amzn.to/4eCAMmz  Silent Days, Silent Dreams by Allen Say: https://amzn.to/4w8EGuL The William Hoy Story by Nancy Churnin: https://amzn.to/3T1edkj The Story of Helen Keller: A Biography Book for New Readers by Christine Platt: https://amzn.to/4uSVkxq The Story of My Life by Helen Keller: https://amzn.to/4gJRwLg Who Was Helen Keller? by Gary Thompson: https://amzn.to/4oS2kcE Time to Sign: Sign Language for Kids by Catherine Clay: https://amzn.to/3SJIBzA American Sign Language for Kids: 101 Easy Signs by Rochelle Barlow: https://amzn.to/4eC9sq5 Unbroken Faith by Diane Kim: https://amzn.to/3R38l9E Leading a Special Needs Ministry by Amy Finton Lee: https://amzn.to/4wteP0T God Made Me Unique: Helping Children See Value in Every Person by Joni and Friends and Trish Mahoney: https://amzn.to/4eFAV93 An additional book not mentioned in the podcast: My First Sign Language Book for Nonverbal Kids: ASL for Toddlers, Nonverbal Children, Autism and Early Communicators: https://amzn.to/4oMQ0KA