A Blog on Deaf Theology

As a Deaf practical theologian, I’ve often sought out a place to build some scholarly dialogue in relation to theology and Deaf studies. It is my hope that this blog can become a forum for discussion and an exchange of ideas for Deaf theology.

Why did I choose the name “signs unseen?”

• “signs unseen” refers to the posts and responses on this blog by users of American Sign Language that occur in written English.  Although they exist here in one language, behind them, there are signs unseen that are the expression of thoughts from another language.  Reading through the English to see the ASL may be necessary to fully understand an author’s point.

• “signs unseen” also refers to the scarcity of theological discourse from Deaf perspectives.  While one can find various resources on ‘starting ministry with Deaf people,’ ‘saving Deaf souls,’ and ‘religious interpreting’ I’ve not found a great deal of research that engages Deaf culture and religion at a scholarly level from a liberal mainstream point of view.

I’m also blogging about a variety of theological issues that face my own denomination, The United Methodist Church.  Like all mainline denominations, we’re facing the need to make serious structural changes in order to remain a relevant presence in the 21st century.