Sign Language Interpretation
By the Rev. Raymond Meester, PC(USA) Consultant for Hearing
In using an interpreter, it is important to remember that sign language is a visual language, thus, “line of sight” is important. The interpreter should be as close to the speaker as possible so that the deaf can watch both the speaker and the interpreter. The deaf need to be seated near the interpreter, which usually means in the first few rows of seats or pews. It is important that the interpreter be well-lit. The interpreter should not be located in front of a bright light or window as the glare may make it difficult for the deaf to see the interpreter. It is best to consult with the deaf or the interpreter as to the best placement of the interpreter and the deaf.
There is more than one sign system. While the vast majority of the adult deaf use American Sign Language, there are other systems such as Signed English, Seeing Essential English (SEE 1) and Signing Exact English (SEE 2). These signed systems are generically referred to as Manually Coded English (MCE) Systems. American Sign Language is not signed English. You will need to check with the deaf persons to see which system they use.
It is extremely important to provide a qualified interpreter. One way to guarantee that a deaf person will not come back is to use an unskilled interpreter. The following anecdote is from the National Council of Churches of Christ policy statement, “No Barriers for Deaf People in Churches.”
I went to a church a few years ago that advertised they were providing "sign language interpretation" for their main service. Great! I eagerly showed up and sat down in front. But when the interpreter started signing, I could hardly understand a thing! It was painful to watch her the whole service. Afterward, I went up to her to ask how she learned sign language. At first, she couldn't understand me, but then when she finally did, she said she was enrolled in her SECOND COURSE!! She also confessed she didn't understand the theological language of the pastor very well. Needless to say, I didn't go back again.
Unfortunately a lot of deaf people have had experiences similar to this.
It is appropriate to ask the interpreter about their qualifications. Ask if they are certified or have had some kind of quality assessment. Often times, a state agency for the deaf can help you determine if an interpreter is qualified. (A listing of state agencies is available online.  ) Some state agencies provide an interpreter referral service or they can direct you to such a service. The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf Web site has some helpful information concerning hiring an interpreter.
Some interpreters prefer not to interpret in religious settings for a variety of reasons. They may feel uncomfortable in a religious setting. They may not be very knowledgeable about religious terminology. Hymns can be particularly difficult. For example, what is meant by the phrase, “Raise my Ebenezer” in the hymn, “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing?” The sign for baptism in the mode of sprinkling is different than the sign for baptism in the mode of immersion. Responsive readings can also be a challenge. Providing the interpreter with a script of the worship service, including words to the music, in advance can be quite helpful. For example, one pastor emails the script of the entire worship service and the sermon to the interpreter on Thursdays of each week for the following Sunday morning worship service. Download more information concerning interpreters in a religious setting.
Don’t expect an interpreter to volunteer his or her services any more than you would expect ministers, church janitors and church secretaries to volunteer. This is how they make their living. The rate of pay and various billing practices can vary greatly from region to region. Events that require an interpreter for more than an hour or two will necessitate hiring an additional interpreter. In these situations, the two interpreters will take turns interpreting.
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