28 May 2024
A good news story from the ministry team working with Deaf people in our Diocese.
In March this year 17 people went expectantly to Pleshey Retreat House for our Annual Day of fellowship, learning and pausing together.
Our day was led by Sue Whalley, Baptist Minister. She is Deaf herself and so the day was led in British Sign Language with interpreters providing the English for people who could hear.
Sue took the theme of Rocks. She carefully wove aspects of her own story into three topics: The Rock of faithfulness; The Rock of sin and forgiveness; The Rock of resurrection and hope. She gave us much to think about, including – how did the women who went to the tomb, think that they were going to open it?!
Janice Taylor, a participant at the retreat shares her experience of the day:
‘This wasn’t my first experience of Pleshey, in fact, my first experience was over 30 years ago when I first became a Christian! But this time, my daughter and I were returning to Pleshey as part of the Deaf community, which felt very welcoming and supportive. This retreat day was a great opportunity to go to a holy place and take time out from everyday life. It was a lovely space to be reflective and creative alongside other people, who I met for the first time. I can honestly say it was a real joy being able to relax, as I understood what was going on and felt really included. We were treated to Sue’s teaching, a chance to walk the beautiful grounds, and also got creative with painting stones and writing poetry. There were many lovely blessings as we shared this time together, especially with the fantastic food provided too! I must say since that day I have felt a little more confident and brave! I have been sharing my experience back at my home church as well as with our women’s ministry. It is great to come back from a retreat with a great experience, and we look forward to the next opportunity!'
Do you have any Deaf people in your congregation? They would be very welcome to join us for our Autumn Retreat: 4 – 6 October 2024, at Pleshey Retreat House, led by Archdeacon Ruth.
Rev’d Canon Stephanie Gillingham
Chelmsford Diocese Lead Minister to the Deaf Community
deafminister@chelmsford.anglican.org
Follow us on Facebook: Deaf Church in Chelmsford Diocese
