OAK HILL UMC - MINISTRY FOR THE DEAF
Oak Hill UMC provides interpreters at the 11:15 worship service each week.
The presence of a Deaf visitor named Caroline Koo last year prompted church leaders to explore
the need for Deaf services within the United Methodist Church. What they found is that there are
currently no United Methodist churches in Austin offering such services.
The church felt compelled to support efforts to reach this part of our community by hiring interpreters,
one being Jennifer Bryce. Jennifer is an advanced certified interpreter and teacher of the deaf. She
explains, "Because OHUMC strives to serve all of God's children and wants to open its doors to everyone,
they have worked hard to find a team of qualified interpreters. As a result of this effort, Caroline
has become a member of OHUMC. I am so proud of OHUMC and feel blessed to be part of their
community." Caroline says, "Oak Hill United Methodist Church is a testimony to the United Methodist
Church's Open Hearts, Open Minds, and Open Doors. Not only do I have equal access to sermons
and Sunday School, but also I enjoy learning and growing under UMC's guidance. I am now able to
appreciate being a fourth-generation UMC member as a direct descendant of Bishop Kaung with relatives
who are very active in UMC worldwide."
Following the guidance of Caroline and Jennifer, OHUMC has embraced this ministry for the Deaf.
The church is using advanced certified interpreters to make their 11:15 worship service accessible for
Deaf visitors and members. In addition, interpreters are also available for Sunday school and special
events upon request.
"We are delighted to begin this new relationship with Austin's deaf community", Pastor Jim Roberts
said, "Our church has a long tradition of warmth, openness & fun blended with vital ministry and mission.
We are honored and blessed to welcome our deaf friends to Oak Hill UMC".
For more information, please contact Jennifer Bryce at jen@oakhillumc.org.