September 15, 2026
Photo: orthodoxchristiandeafassociation.org
September is Deaf Awareness Month, and the Orthodox Christian Deaf Association (OCDA) is using the occasion to highlight its work making the Orthodox faith more accessible to deaf and hard-of-hearing people.
The OCDA’s ministry focuses on removing barriers that can make it hard for deaf Orthodox Christians to take part in the life of the Church. That includes providing interpreted catechism classes, developing accessible Orthodox educational resources, supporting clergy and parishes doing deaf ministry, and building out an Orthodox Christian lexicon in American Sign Language, reports the OCA Diocese of the South.
Donations during Deaf Awareness Month go directly toward this work:
A $30 gift can help cover an interpreter for a catechism class, and $60 funds a fully interpreted class for Deaf students. Larger donations support the development of ASL educational materials, outreach to Deaf Orthodox Christians and their families, continued work on the Orthodox Christian Lexicon, and travel and media resources for Deaf ministry initiatives. Gifts of $1,000 to $1,500 can specifically support travel for deaf ministry initiatives along with a videographer or editor to document the work.
The OCDA frames its mission around accessibility as a matter of helping everyone fully encounter and participate in the life of Christ’s Church. Through its programs, Deaf Orthodox Christians and those exploring the faith are getting more opportunities to learn, worship, take part in catechesis, and grow within the Church.
To learn more and donate to the cause, visit the Orthodox Christian Deaf Association website.
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