EXPRESSIVE DEAF   ABOUT The Expressive Deaf Ministry is one of the most powerful and unique ministries of The Gathering. The Gathering has a large congregation of Deaf members, including children, teens, college-career and adults. This is a sharp group of individuals and families - successful students and professionals (including business leaders, educators and doctors). Certified sign language interpreters praise with the worship team and stand alongside the minister during the message. Because of this, there is no designated seating area for the Deaf. This allows the Deaf to sit anywhere they feel comfortable. The Expressive Deaf Ministry is known for getting together for for awesome activities including, kayaking, rock climbing and dinner outings.  LEARNING SIGN LANGUAGE Sign Language classes are offered to the hearing members of the community in order to break down communication barriers. Hearing members of The Gathering are constantly and enthusiastically learning more about the deaf culture and communication. In the process, we've learned the beauty of how expressive the language of sign truly is. PASTOR RAY AND JAN ON DEAF Pastors Ray and Jan have two children who are Deaf and one child who is hearing. Rachel is a graduate of Gallaudet University in Washington DC. Adam is employed with the Department of Defense. Their oldest child, Bethany, is hearing. The Expressive Deaf Ministry, clearly, has a special place in the heart of Ray and Jan. Pastor Jan is the main interpreter during Sunday morning messages. She also is the main instructor for sign classes. It's their passion to continually remove communication barriers between the hearing and the deaf in order to reach out to a community that also needs to be reached!