American Sign Language Interpreting
Charting a communications course
American Sign Language, the world's fourth most common language, is the primary language of the Deaf in the United States and Canada. While two percent of the Deaf profess to know Christ as Saviour; only seven percent of the Deaf know the name Jesus. With over 250 million deaf people in the world and 16 million deaf in America, why are churches unable to reach them? Sadly, these people not being reached by our churches because there are either no interpreters or those that serve as interpreters are not sufficient skilled to communicate the message into American Sign Language. The Deaf are continually seeking qualified interpreters to share the love of Christ with them and to help them in everyday social and professional situations.
Advantages of an American Sign Language Interpreting Training Program:
ILN offers courses that will train you to become an American Sign Language Interpreter. Candidates are required to complete two years of ASL training and one year of interpreter training. Both voice-to-sign and sign-to-voice interpreting are stressed. Courses include various interpreting assignments as well as attendance at interpreting workshops and local community events for the Deaf. Unique opportunities for ministry are found in weekly Bible studies such as those at Knoxville's Tennessee School for the Deaf.
These courses are offered in every fall and spring semester, as well as winter and summer interims session. For more information contact ILN at (865) 938-8186, extension 853.
