The Deaf Evangelistic Adventist Fellowship (DEAF) hosted the 23rd Annual Deaf Eastern Autumn Revival (DEAR) Camp Meeting from October 24-27, 2024, at the Mt. Aetna Retreat Center in Hagerstown, MD. The theme, “Sharing God's Words with the Deaf,” focused on reaching the Deaf community, as only 2% of Deaf people worldwide know Jesus. This theme came from Mark 1:17: “Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
The weather was beautiful with sunny skies, colorful fall leaves, and a slight chill. Fifty-five people from eight states, including Maryland, attended.
This included 11 youth, 11 committee members from the Silent Impact Ministry for the Deaf (SIMD), and nine local visitors who joined for Sabbath worship. SIMD held its first camp meeting on the same dates as DEAR and joined DEAR for Sabbath worship with voice interpreters, making it a special experience.
The camp meeting featured six deaf speakers with powerful messages. Terese Rognmo-Hucke spoke on “Jesus' Character,” encouraging everyone to be like eagles and reach out with Jesus' ministry. Jason Kimbrough presented “Today's Gospel,” explaining how knowing Jesus helps us become "Fishers of Men." Oma Sampson shared about his “Nigeria Mission Trip,” where five Deaf people were baptized, and he taught a lesson on “Witnesses of Christ as the Messiah.” Kevin Colgan’s sermon on “The Power of Testimony” showed how a changed heart can spread kindness and faith, with examples from Mister Rogers and Daniel. Margie English discussed “Bible Translation” as an opportunity for Deaf people to discuss, sing, and appreciate God’s promises in their own language. Josiah Kelly concluded with a Vespers message on “Our Fascinating Universe Through God's Creation,” reminding everyone to rely on God as we share His love.
SIMD’s camp meeting centered around the theme “Walk Through the Storm.” They focused on public speaking, leadership, missionary work, and teamwork. SIMD also led an outreach mission, giving out Amazing Facts comic books in a nearby community. Presentations included Boyd Garner’s “Abraham's Journey” and Joshua Piccerillo on the Biblical Moai, focusing on community connection. Earnest Sigamoney led morning devotionals and Steven Santiago led the outreach mission. Both DEAR and SIMD participants enjoyed hiking on the retreat center’s trails and visiting the nature center.
Special thanks to the DEAR and SIMD committees, especially Chairperson Sheelah Kimbrough (MD) for six years of service and Assistant Farrah Gooding-Santiago (VA) for their commitment in coordinating the camp meeting. The new chairpersons, Mike and Beth Dobson (VA), long-time DEAF church members, will lead the next DEAR camp meeting, scheduled for October 9-12, 2025. If you have ideas for this event, contact the Dobsons. Visit www.deafellowship.org/dear for more information on future events.