Religious Interpreting

Sample Presentation Topics Include But Are NOT Limited To:



The Bible: Now Showing in 3-D


As interpreters, we work so hard to make sure we say all of the words we are hearing that we very often forget how they are being said.  We tend to be more narrative in our interpreting as opposed to speaking from the first person perspective.  This workshop will be geared toward broadening our thinking on how common Bible stories can be interpreted.  Participants will practice role-shifting, eye gaze, classifiers, first person storytelling in sign, and they will practice using general 3-D signing space. 


Ethics in Religious Settings


“Does being a volunteer interpreter at my church make me immune to ethical standards?”  “Is it okay that tell other people about my Deaf client’s prayer requests to have others pray too?”  In this workshop, we will take a look at the RID-NAD Code of Professional Conduct and its practical applications in religious settings.  The line between interpreter and church member can be difficult to determine at times and we will explore that boundary.  We will look at the individual tenets of the CPC and then we will apply those to specific situation in a small group setting.
The 10 Commandments of Religious Interpreting


Religious interpreting is easy and not as important as other assignments…right?  WRONG!!!  Come and learn what it takes to be a religious interpreter.  We will discuss interpretations for a few scriptures as time permits.  This workshop is suitable for interpreters of any level, but especially for those starting out in religious interpreting.  Come and find out if you’ve got what it takes to do religious interpreting!


Romans Road


Take a walk down Romans Road in the new testament of the Bible.  We will discuss what Romans Road is, the meaning behind its verses, and how its message can be effectively communicated into sign language.  This presentation will include lecture, group discussion, and demonstrations.  Participants of all backgrounds, all levels of sign knowledge, and all levels of Bible knowledge are welcome to join in!


Bringing Songs to Life in Sign for Church


I know way too many Deaf people who come to church after the musical worship is finished.  When asked why, they usually respond that they are just not getting anything out of it.  This is of course not always a reflection on the interpretation, but it certainly gives me pause in thinking about how I am doing.  What can we do to make this a cherished part of worship for all present?  We will apply the concepts of role-shifting, classifiers, eye gaze, narrative vs. first person, artistic license, and general 3-D signing space as it applies to music. 
Our Father Who Art in Heaven…HELP!:
Interpreting Common Scriptures and Music
Scripture Analysis (We may add scriptures if time permits)
  • 23rd Psalm
  • The LORD’s Prayer
  • John 3:16
  • John 14:6
Song Analysis (We may add songs if time permits)


  • Hymns
  • Christmas
  • Praise and Contemporary Worship
  • Gospel