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 The Bible in BSL will also mean that Deaf BSL users will be able to study the Bible in their preferred language in groups, to build their faith or for theological study.
All translations will be put through an intensive checking and consultation process, to make sure that the BSL is clear and the translation is accurate.
This is a very big project that will take many years to complete. We need people to help and support us in lots of different ways. For example, by praying, by joining a group to give feedback on BSL Bible video clips, by giving money, by joining a translation team and by generally telling everyone you know about the Project!
The BSL Bible Translation Project is a cross-denominational, independent, not-for-profit organisation. We are registered with Companies House and the Charity Commission as a Registered Charitable Company. We are recruiting a group of Deaf and hearing trustees and advisers.
Why do we need a Bible in BSL?
Many people do not initially understand why Deaf people would need a Bible in BSL and ask why Deaf people cannot effectively read the Bible in English.
Since the Hebrew Scriptures were translated into the Septuagint for the Greek-speaking people, communities have wanted Biblical text in their own language. This has led to Bible translation into many different languages, for people throughout the world. Of course, this desire and need is true for communities of people who are Deaf and who use a sign language as their first or preferred language. While many people groups now have a Bible in their own language, the Deaf Community in Britain are still waiting.
Many Deaf people find reading English difficult; it is hard to learn English without access to the sounds of the language from birth. However, Deaf people do have their own naturally evolving, indigenous language â British Sign Language! Deaf people vary in their understanding of written English, some Deaf people in the UK are bilingual in BSL and English, but they still long for a Bible that is theirs, in their âheartâ language.
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Peter Shaw was born, grew up and currently lives in Carlisle, Cumbria and attended St John's Catholic School for the Deaf. He is married to Maryka and they have two children, Helena and George. Heâs been involved with various church activities including youth work, counselling training and worship in both Catholic and Church of England churches.
Herbert Klein is the Deaf Advisor for the National Deaf Services as part of NHS Mental Health and has worked for them for 21 years. Herbert is married and has 3 sons. He has been a member of Forest Hill Community Church for 25 years.
Ros Hunt has been involved with the Deaf community for many years. She is an ordained priest in the Church of England and has worked as a Chaplain with Deaf people, as well as working in Social Services. Ros is working as a researcher in 'Social Research With Deaf People' at the University of Manchester. Ros is also the Treasurer for the Project.