Awaken 2024 | Nashville, TN

Have we lost the millennial generation? Have they turned so far from God they cannot be reconciled? 

Examining my millennial peers, considering these questions, hope for spiritual growth has dwindled. Between what we read on social media and both conservative and liberal publications, hope deferred appears to be our only hope!

After spending a long weekend in Nashville, TN with over 100 Deaf millennials at the Awaken Conference, hope was inspired again as I witnessed them seek after God through worship & prayer. My heart leapt as Deaf leaders took the platform to declare the good news, young Deaf millennials flood the altar for prayer and worship their God like they truly meant it!  What a gift to be a fly on the wall as an interpreter. 

It is truly humbling to be invited into those spaces. If I have learned anything from my 18 years of interpreting, it is a privilege to join hands with Deaf community, but an honor to serve the Lord while doing it.  This is something I desire to instill the next generation of interpreters. 

Sonshine Interpreting had the opportunity to host 7 interns at this conference. From platform, voice, Deaf-Blind co-navigating, low vision and tactile interpreting, the interns had eyes on all kinds of interpreting situations. The body of Christ displayed at one event was unmatched! 

Interns are essential to the future of our profession. By opening intern opportunities in Christian spaces, we hope to develop up and coming interpreters to be equipped to go into their spheres of influence within the capital ‘C’ Church. 

Thank you to Deaf Millennial Project for hosting a Jesus-centered event and allowing Sonshine Interpreting to be a small part of what you’re doing to further the Gospel to the Deaf community!