“Deaf Ministry: Make a Joyful Silence”

Peggy A. Johnson, D.Min. and Robert L. Walker, D.Min.

ISBN: 1-4196-6400-X

The Rev. Dr. Peggy A. Johnson’s “Make a Joyful Silence” is an inspiring testament to her journey into ordained ministry with a focus on service with Deaf, late-deafened, hard of hearing, and deaf-blind people. Further, this book is a challenge to every church and follower of Jesus’ way to open doors, hearts and minds to the gifts and needs of people who live with reduced or non-existing hearing or eyesight. The reader becomes a companion as Dr. Johnson retraces her journey that was never easy, but ultimately fulfilling for parishioner and pastor alike. In the course of walking the trail with the author—often accompanied by laughter or tears—the reader will be helped to understand and appreciate the unique needs, but also the ennobling gifts of people living without full or any hearing or eyesight. Through the reading of the memoirs, along with the study guide written by the Rev. Dr. Robert L. Walker, individuals, small groups and the church itself may experience a rebirth of ears and eyesight for heeding the Divine call to learn from those who have those physical losses. Managing life with only one eye, Dr. Johnson is our insightful guide to a comprehension of God’s grace that includes those whom society and church often exclude,    -Statement on the book’s back cover

The book refers often to the United Methodist Church, its traditions, organization, and hymnody; however, persons from other church denominations may find the book useful, and adjustments to different customs and church structures can be easily made.

Order Online:

Amazon.com,

www.amazon.com/access
(best for screen reading software or mobile devices)

www.borders.com,

or www.target.com.

One can also order the book in person at the Borders or Target bookstores.

Leo Yates, Jr, M.Div. provided the final editing and formatting to prepare “Make a Joyful Silence” for publication. Persons and churches interested or currently engaged in ministry with people using American Sign Language will find his recently published book invaluable. Its title is “Interpreting at Church: A Paradigm for Sign Language Interpreters” (ISBN 1-4196-5318-0). The book features chapters such as: Ethical Issues, Analysis & Application, Weddings and Funerals, and Religious Sign Dictionary. The book is on sale for $19.77 at Amazon.com.