St Paul’s Cathedral in the City of London
(Picture: Getty Images)St Paul’s Cathedral is to host its first-ever sermon given entirely in sign language this weekend.
The historic service taking place on Sunday has been described as “a significant moment for the Church in London and nationally” and aims to make worship more accessible to the Deaf community.
St Paul’s has long included British Sign Language (BSL) interpreted services, but this will mark the first time a sermon is given entirely in sign language, with a spoken word interpretation for hearing members of the congregation.
It will come after International Day of Sign Languages is marked on Friday - which aims to raise awareness of the communication used by tens of millions of Deaf people across the globe.
Baptist Minister Sue Whalley, who will preach at the service, said: “ I hope that this type of sermon is the first of many to come.
“It will be an honour to give a sermon at St Paul’s and use sign language to share my reflections and thoughts on God.
“As coordinator for London Deaf Churches, I have seen how important Christianity and faith in Jesus Christ is to the many churchgoers from the deaf community.
“The church is a place for people from all different backgrounds and communities, and it is therefore essential that we are able to connect with all groups of people, including the segment of the population who are Deaf.”
In the UK, approximately 151,000 people use BSL, and of these 87,000 are Deaf. In April this year, the BSL Act was passed, recognising BSL as an official language of England, Scotland and Wales.
John Beauchamp, the Diocese of London’s Disability Ministry Enabler, said: “Sue’s sermon at St Paul’s Cathedral will be a significant moment for the Church in London and nationally, bringing attention to BSL and the Deaf community.
“This sermon reflects the direction in which the Diocese of London is heading, as we continue to find different ways for all people to engage and participate in all our services.”
The service will take place at 11.15am on Sunday, September 25.
