American Sign Language Interpreting

American Sign Language, the world’s fourth most common language, is the primary language of the Deaf in the U.S. and Canada. Two percent of the Deaf profess to be saved; in addition only seven percent of the Deaf know the name Jesus. With 250 million deaf people in the world and 16 million deaf in America why are churches unable to reach them? Sadly, these people are missing from our churches because there are either no interpreters or the interpreters are unable to skillfully convey the message into American Sign Language. The Deaf are continually seeking qualified interpreters to share the love of Christ and help them in everyday social and professional situations.

ILN’s Interpreting Training Program (ITP)

ILN offers students a certificate of completion from our Interpreter Training Program. Learn American Sign Language and become fully integrated in the Deaf ministry at the Temple Baptist Church while preparing to reach the Deaf worldwide. This Interpreter Training Program (ITP) includes the following courses:

  • Introduction to Deafness
  • ASL I-IV
  • ASL Interpreting I and II

Both voice-to-sign and sign-to-voice interpreting are stressed. Courses include various interpreting assignments as well as attendance of interpreting workshops and local community events for the Deaf. Unique opportunities for ministry are found in weekly Bible studies at Knoxville’s Tennessee School for the Deaf.

*These courses are designed to help students prepare for the NIC (National Interpreters Certification) knowledge test.