Guidelines for Working with American Sign Language Interpreters in Catholic Religious Settings
National Catholic Office for the Deaf
Introduction:
The National Catholic Office for the Deaf (NCOD) is dedicated to promoting pastoral ministry with persons who are deaf or hard of hearing with bishops, pastors, pastoral workers, catechists and families.
NCOD is publishing these “Guidelines for Working with American Sign Language Interpreters in Catholic Religious Settings” in response to repeated requests from many arch/dioceses, parishes and agencies serving deaf persons. These guidelines have been developed over time in consultation with deaf persons, pastoral workers and interpreters and, therefore, reflects their expertise and extensive experience in religious settings.
While no guidelines can address every question or respond to all possible situations, this statement does suggest basic principles and best practices for sign language interpreting in religious settings and sets forth a standard for making church functions accessible to deaf persons.
To read the complete policy, download the PDF.
