Deaf in Czechia

Introduction / History

In many situations, Deaf people are viewed as disability groups, but a more accurate approach is to consider them as distinct people groups. They have their own unique languages and culture.

Unlike most people groups, Deaf people can be found in every country in the world and often blend in with the broader community around them. That includes the Deaf in Czechia.

What Are Their Lives Like?

There is a general feeling of hopelessness and helplessness because of being stuck. Many Deaf have menial jobs because of a lack of adequate trade school opportunities and/or a lack of trained interpreters to go to higher education. Deaf associations and clubs play an important role in the lives of Czech Deaf because it is in these groups the Deaf are together and can combat oppression, have advocacy and national networking as well as networking with Deaf in other countries.

Sport teams are especially important to Czech Deaf so if mission agencies can focus on this sub population you have the potential for reaching the whole population for Christ. Deaf are an egalitarian culture and place a high value on community so outreach efforts should be geared to the whole group.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Catholicism is so strong in the Czech Republic and many are cynical and apathetic about Christianity so a special effort needs to be made to reach them in their heart language because there is little clear understanding among Czech Deaf. The cults have gone in and the people's hearts are hardened.

What Are Their Needs?

There are no completely self-supporting Deaf churches.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to get ahold of the hearts of Deaf people in Czechia and use them to disciple other Deaf people.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to find a way around the communication challenges for the Deaf in Czechia.
Pray for the Deaf in Czechia to have dreams and visions of Christ, leading them to the cross.

Text Source:   Joshua Project