In the Church of England the work of the Chaplains among deaf people is pretty much the same as that of parish priests, the difference being that the Chaplains are there specifically for deaf and hard of hearing people and they work over a much wider area.
The Chaplains are trained in the use of Sign Language and are aware of the culture and needs of deaf and hard of hearing people. In the Diocese of Oxford we are very fortunate in having Chaplains, Lay Ministers and local clergy who are available to support deaf and hard of hearing people, and to remind hearing people in local hearing churches of their existence and their gifts as well as their needs.
The Chaplains are there to offer worship using appropriate communication such as Sign Language and technology such as loop systems, and to encourage congregations in their life and work.
We take services in deaf centres, churches and community centres. We are willing to respond to any pastoral need, to offer advice and show support in times of need, for example when deaf people are in hospital. Or we can refer people on to one of our volunteers or other agencies when appropriate.
The Chaplains are available to take Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals, to interpret for deaf people when necessary, altogether to do what we can to support Christian people who happen to be deaf or hard of hearing.
E-mail: hannah.lewis@oxford.anglican.org
Mobile: 07933 199392 (text or WhatsApp only please)
The Revd. Vera Hunt MBE
Fax/Minicom: 01628 623909
Or via Text Direct : 18002 01628 623909 (for hearing
people without a minicom)
Email: verahunt6@gmail.com
Our three Licenced Lay Ministers complete the ministry team by their considerable contribution to the worship of the community in addition to their teaching and pastoral support.
The ministry team is shown below, and viewing from the left are: Mrs Anna Knaggs, Rev'd Dr Hannah Lewis, Rev’d Vera Hunt MBE, Mr Ken Dyson, Bishop Steven and Mr Bruce Armour.
Please contact our Pastoral, Finance and Administrative Secretary with any enquiries relating to grants, volunteering with ODCD, donations, finance or other general query about our work.
Miss Fiona McNally
Email: hello@odcd.org.uk
ODCD works with deaf and hard of hearing people across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. //Find a church
Our Chaplaincy team are actively involved in supporting the deaf and hard of hearing in a variety of ways. //Meet the team
There are services and events taking place across the Diocese that you can get involved in. Our calendar provides details. //Find a service