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COMMISSION
ON COMPASSION Among the Christian community, the deaf-blind are virtually an unreached people group with very little being done to evangelize them. Family members who have a deaf-blind individual in their family most often do not know how to relate to them, so they routinely institutionalize him. It is estimated that there are approximately one million deaf-blind in the US. Sixteen different forms of communication are used, with English and American Sign Language being the two main languages.
The nature of BMW's ministry to the deaf-blind in Los Angeles is to reach the deaf-blind with the gospel of Jesus Christ by establishing relationships where trust is built; by meeting personal needs; and by learning how to communicate with each individual. Due to the nature of their physical limitations, they are usually very cautious and strong-willed people. However, the constant display of love by gracious and committed believers breaks down the barriers, and Christ can be presented as the answer to their spiritual need. Through the years of faithful ministry a number of these have come into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. FIELD HISTORY IN LOS ANGELES, CA
The first tenants took up their residence in this 22-unit complex in 1986. In 1995 another 13 units were added, making the facility a total of 35 apartments. And in subsequent years a chapel has been added, as well as a full-service kitchen which serves daily meals to the residents. NATURE OF CURRENT OUTREACH
FUTURE PLANS Our passion is to minister to the deaf-blind world through creating evangelism-based ministries for the deaf-blind, providing training for the preparation of deaf workers and raising funds for the support of deaf and deaf-blind ministries. GOALS FOR THE FUTURE
For more information on the Commission On Compassion, please visit their website, email Jim Hansen, BMW's Field Leader in L.A., or contact Dominic Gonino, BMW's U.S. Area Director. Also visit the website for Grace Bible Church for the Deaf. |
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MINISTRIES WORLDWIDE Site
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Many
of the deaf-blind have known abuse and ostracism from the hearing
community. Family members many times do not know how to communicate
and relate to them, so they suffer isolation. All of this adds to
the frustration caused by this disability. 
In
the fall of 1963, Muriel Hersom pioneered work among the deaf-blind.
As she worked with them, she was burdened with the need of a place
for the deaf-blind to live independently. In 1986 a motel was purchased
in Los Angeles, CA and came to be known as the 
The
Commission on Compassion is a 24-hour facility that provides a safe
atmosphere where the deaf-blind can experience independent living.
The BMW personnel provide assistance such as transporting them and
helping them keep doctor’s appointments, as well as evangelizing
and discipling them on a one-to-one basis. Grace Bible Church
for the Deaf and Deaf-Blind is located on the campus, thus making
Bible teaching available and supplementing the spiritual ministry
of the missionary staff. |
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