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International Congress for Deaf and Deaf-Blind
Seville, Spain
May 13-16, 2016
Pictorial Overview of the Congress: https://cincopa.com/~A0GA3gt6h4Wq
It was an amazing experience: Two hundred-thirty deaf, deaf-blind
and hearing met in Seville, Spain for the International Congress for the Deaf
and Deaf-Blind. Attendees came from 15
countries mostly from the Inter-European Division which was the host division but
individuals and groups also came from South America, Inter-America, United
States, Korea, Latvia and Poland. Nine
different languages were interpreted (the term used for sign language as
contrasted with translated). The theme
for the congress was "Through My Hands"—a very fitting theme for a
deaf congress. The event was held in
Seville, Spain May 13-16. The General Conference Special Needs Ministries
assisted with some of the financial expenses.
The congress featured spiritually inspired sermons presented by the deaf for the
deaf but relayed in audible English for those who were hearing. A large portion of the time was giving to
touring historical and religious sites in Seville and Cordoba. How ironic that the congress should be held
in a city that generations ago during the Spanish Inquisition oppression for
one’s belief resulted in torture and death – of course, all for “good reasons.” To the contrary, this congress, sought to
liberate and restore meaning to those who are so often marginalized. They
have spiritual gifts, intellectual insights and compassion for others to share. We
have so much to learn from the Deaf culture.
Symbolically this was a perfect place to hold this special international
event.
The grand finale was a Broadway type musical featuring
biblical characters with both verbal and sign language. The leaders from the
Inter-European Division were Corrado Cozzi and Taida Rivero. However, working
with them was a large host of individuals who helped make this happen.
This congress is but a sample of things to come. It is
anticipated that the General Conference will host a world congress for the Deaf
and Deaf-Blind in 2019. The venue is yet to be determined. The vision is
spreading – not only for the Deaf but for the blind, those with physical and
mental limitations as well as for the orphans of the world. The new General Conference ministry, called
Special Needs Ministries, recently voted a new motto: “All are gifted, needed, and treasured!” This is not a program. It is the beginning of a global people
movement that is releasing the giftedness of those who have been quieted, shunned
and marginalized far too long. Join the
movement.
If you have comments, suggestions or questions email us at SpecialNeeds@gc.adventist.org
Sincerely,
Larry R Evans, D.Min.
Assistant to the President
General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists