For the first time, the Deaf community will have the opportunity to experience the story of Jesus in a film created by Deaf professionals. Christian organizations have come together to produce and release ‘Jesus, a Deaf Missions Film’ in American Sign Language, which premiered this month.
This groundbreaking film aims to bridge the gap between the Deaf community and the Christian faith by presenting the gospel story in a way that is accessible. The film was written and produced by Deaf professionals, ensuring the story is told from the Biblical accounts and from a Deaf lens.
Deaf Missions partnered with many organizations, including Jesus Film Project, to produce the film. ‘Jesus, a Deaf Missions Film’ features a cast of Deaf actors and native signers and will be accompanied by English subtitles for non-signing viewers. [watch the trailer below]
Josh Newell, Executive Director of Jesus Film Project said, “At Jesus Film Project, we believe everyone, everywhere should have access to Jesus’ life-changing love and forgiveness. We break language and literacy barriers to ensure that anyone, anywhere can watch Christian films. We are excited to come alongside Deaf Missions to connect with the Deaf community, who remain largely unreached by the gospel, directly in their heart language.”
Joseph Josselyn, Chief Media Officer and Producer at Deaf Missions said,
"I’m excited to see how the Deaf audience responds to the film. They can finally watch a movie about Jesus without any language barriers. They can be fully immersed in the film with their heart language!”
‘Jesus, a Deaf Missions Film’ marks a historic moment as a testament to the progress being made towards inclusivity and representation. With more than 400 sign languages in the world, Deaf Missions is testing sign-dub technology, working to determine how to utilize it to make this film available to Deaf people worldwide in many different sign languages. The film is a must-see for anyone interested in experiencing the gospel story in a new and powerful way.
Help spread the word. Do you know someone whose heart language is ASL? Tell them about this new film. Learn more at DeafMissions.com/Jesus.