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Philippians 2:1-2
‘Your life in Christ makes you strong, and his love comforts you. You have fellowship with the Spirit, and you have kindness and compassion for one another. I urge you, then, to make me completely happy by having the same thoughts, sharing the same love, and being one in soul and mind.
Gracious God, as Deaf awareness is marked this week, we remember all those who live in a world of silence and give thanks for the Deaf community and their culture. We celebrate the use of sign language and pray that You will support and encourage all those who engage in learning to use it. We pray for all those who teach and support Deaf children and adults and pray that You give them understanding and insight. We pray that we will embrace its use in society and provide those who can interpret and translate it, in order to ensure that our communities are inclusive and welcoming. Lord God, help us to achieve a greater awareness of British sign language and strive to reach out to Deaf people in our communities so that they do not feel alone. We give thanks for the amazing work of hearing dogs for Deaf people who help to combat loneliness. So too, we pray for the work of all medical professionals who strive to support hearing loss. May all those who live in a world of silence feel the power of Your love and Your presence with them today and in the days to come. In the name of Jesus we pray, Amen.