Building a liturgy for the deaf

(WD Armenian) - Under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Armenian Professionals Network (APN) representatives along with a number of our youth met on May 14, 2009 at the Diocesan headquarters to make plans on servicing the spiritual needs of the deaf and hard of hearing.

Participants included His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Vahe Ashjian, Aida Tatiossian, Tigran Khachikyan, Lilit Khachikyan, and Melanie Tatiossian. Arrangements are already being made to begin weekly Bible study sessions at the Diocese that will be taught by using American Sign Language. Preparations are also under way to facilitate the comprehension of the Badarak (liturgy) to those who cannot hear. An initial plan of action was drafted and an inventory of necessary materials and equipment were listed.

With the support of His Eminence, involvement of members of the APN, and input from our youth this noteworthy undertaking will ensure that the teachings of the Armenian Apostolic Church are extended beyond the mainstream to include community members with special needs.