Joseph Otsibah 
The National Coordinator of the Deaf Ministry of The Church of Pentecost, Pastor Peter Reuben Wuni, has urged sign language interpreters to deepen their understanding of the deaf community and see their work as a sacred bridge between the deaf and the hearing church.
Speaking at the Sign Language Interpreters Conference 2025 at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh on the topic, “Working with the Deaf: Things to Know,” Pastor Wuni acknowledged that the work of interpreters is demanding because of contextual and cultural variations across the world. He shared candid insights into the expectations of the deaf community, explaining that the deaf do not always understand everything that is interpreted to them.
“The deaf wish interpreters would improve upon their craft and listen to their suggestions. Many interpreters are proud of their ability to interpret, but often, people cannot understand what they are interpreting,” he said.
Expressing his gratitude to God for the progress made in the church’s engagement with the deaf community, Pastor Wuni noted that twenty years ago, there was nothing like professional sign language interpreters in the Church. He also commended the national coordinator for spearheading the conference, describing it as “a significant step towards inclusivity and excellence in ministry.”
According to the deaf pastor, the demand for professional interpreters is growing as prominent people are now employing their services. He, however, observed that collaboration between interpreters and the deaf community in Africa remains limited compared to other parts of the world.
“The most important thing is that interpreters should have the heart to meet the needs of deaf consumers,” he emphasised.
He expressed concern that some interpreters deviate from their core purpose of bridging the communication gap between the deaf and the hearing, saying, “This work is not about competition. Accept criticism in good faith. The deaf want to fully participate in church services; they want to grow and serve. After interpreting, fellowship with them. Keep their information confidential; don’t discuss their issues publicly, or they will stop coming to church.”
Pastor Wuni further advised interpreters to build genuine relationships with the deaf rather than viewing them as projects to fix.
“Interact with the deaf so it doesn’t look like you love sign language but not deaf people. Be patient and flexible when communicating with them,” he said, adding, “Bridge their communication gap; don’t pity them.”
Concluding his presentation, Pastor Wuni urged interpreters to see themselves as channels through whom the deaf can experience God.
“Improve your interpreting skills and make the deaf hear God’s voice through you. The Bible says the deaf will hear – and that will happen through the interpreter,” he affirmed.
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