Deaf in Slovakia

Introduction / History

Unlike ethnic groups, Deaf people can be found in every country in the world and often blend in with the broader community around them. Deaf people are usually viewed as a disabled group, but a more accurate approach is to consider them as a distinct people group. They have their own unique languages and culture.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Within this past year IMB started teaching Chronological Bible Storying to Deaf which has been very well received. Some of the vocational training available to Deaf includes glass making, cooking, key making, painting, sewing and wood working.

What Are Their Beliefs?

In Slovakia, there is a strong Orthodox tradition. Everyone, including the Deaf, have some Christian influence.

Father Frantisek Bartos started the Christian Center of Deaf in Banska Bystra Slovakia. He has worked tirelessly on behalf of the Deaf though out all of Slovakia and has even started a publication called KCNS. He has started interpreter-training programs to train more interpreters for the Deaf in Slovakia. There are at least two residential schools for Deaf orphans in Slovakia under this pastor's auspices.

What Are Their Needs?

Many Deaf struggle with learning the national language of Slovak as verbal languages are often a second language for most Deaf and many are only functionally literate. Even though Czech Republic and Slovakia were one country in the past there is only about a 50% similarity of signs and they most likely will need a separate video translation of the scriptures.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to prepare and send out Deaf workers to the Deaf in Slovakia.
Ask God to provide worship services in sign language.
Pray for interpreters who love and relate to the Deaf.
Pray for the Deaf in Slovakia to hunger for the Lord Jesus.

Text Source:   Joshua Project