WITNESSING GOD’S TRANSFORMATIVE WORK IN STUDENT’S LIVES
Did you know it takes just 72 hours to read the Bible from cover to cover, yet so many of us will never entirely read it before we pass away. It's a startling thought. Some will start their Bible in a year plan and get lost somewhere around Leviticus or Numbers. I’ve done this! For the Deaf, the barrier can feel even greater. For one, only as recently as 2020 was a full translation of the Bible completed in American Sign Language. Although some Deaf can read, for many, reading is not their preferred way of receiving information. In spite of these obstacles, understanding the message of the Bible continues to be a critical part of every person's spiritual formation.
Seeing this deep need for the Deaf, our team decided to run a Discipleship Bible School (DBS) this past March. For the last 14-weeks, we created a community environment where Deaf believers could receive a foundation of Biblical knowledge and tools for a lifetime of Bible study and application. At times, it felt like a fight to the finish. We walked through hard things as we dived deeply with students into difficult parts of their life. However, The Lord never changes. He continues to demonstrate His faithfulness and provision for us. Even in trials, God has given us reason to hope and have faith for even more transformation through the power of His Spirit.
WITNESSING GOD’S TRANSFORMATIVE WORK IN STUDENT’S LIVES
Click here for DBS Overview Video
As we cross the finish line of the school year, I'm reminded of God's unfolding plans and purpose despite ups and downs. Here are just a few of my favorite moments from the DBS:
Homework Time:
Often during the DBS, students would stay up late finishing homework. Sometimes, when I wasn’t too tired, I got to join them. There was one evening in particular where I was blessed enough to just sit back and witness three Jamaican students fervently discussing the Bible as they put together their Bible presentations. Some of them were admitting that if it wasn’t for meeting Jesus and becoming Deaf, they would be gang members instead of future missionaries.
Bible Presentation Day:
Students showcased their knowledge of God's story, from Genesis to Revelation.
Deaf World Jamaica Staff & DBS Students at Graduation
Marion (YWAM staff) & my friend, Ali from high school who came to visit
Graduation Day:
This was such a special day. It was truly beautiful to see how God worked in the lives of the students during the DBS to transform them more into the image of His Son. This day meant a lot not just to students, but also to our team of staff. We had two students from South Africa, one from Brazil, three Jamaicans, and five Americans. Most of the graduates are leaving with the plan to become missionaries in Jamaica, South Africa, or Brazil. Others are going back to the U.S.
Click here for 1 minute Graduation Day Testimony Video
WHAT’S NEXT?
As we celebrate God’s work in the past, we look forward to what He has in the future, knowing that there will be joys and hardships along the way. I recently arrived home from Jamaica for my summer break. I am excited to be in Illinois until August 10th. In August, I will be going back to Jamaica for our staff training and to prepare for our next DTS (Discipleship Training School). I will be leading the DTS starting in December 2025 alongside other staff. I’m very nervous, but also so excited!
Another important update: I was recently asked to take on more leadership responsibilities which would include staying for another year in Jamaica. I am now committed to stay in Jamaica for two more years until Summer 2027. I have been seeking the Lord’s guidance in this decision through prayer and wise counsel, and I am excited for this opportunity. I know that God will use this extra year for my good and His glory.
It has been so fun to see some of you already this summer, and I am looking forward to seeing more of you! Thank you so much again for making this year possible!
Love,
Ellie
PRAYER REQUESTS
*Please pray for my family, specifically my younger brother’s, Dallas behavior & interest in God.
*Pray for all of our incoming staff to be fully supported with prayer supporters, mentors, financial givers, interpreters, etc.
*Pray for a sweet time of rest this summer with family and friends. For wisdom for my team and I as we start a new DTS in the fall and navigate difficult leadership situations.
PRAISES
*We're sending out eleven Deaf students who know God's story and character! We're grateful for the transformation we've witnessed and look forward to seeing God's continued work in their lives.
Baby Asher has added so much joy to my life and our team during this season!
I was able to spend two amazing weekends with my cousins in Jamaica who came on a mission trip to CCCD Kingston and Jamaica Deaf Village.
