Newsletter – August 2023
“But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him…Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular” (1 Cor. 12:18, 27). Learning about the different spiritual gifts, personalities, abilities, and interests that God gives His children fascinates me! Although I am a missionary, I am, by nature and spiritual gifting, a server. This means that it is not always easy for me to stand in front of an audience and speak. I am much more comfortable helping and supporting others in their God-given goals and plans. Yet sometimes, to progress towards the goal of Silent Word Ministries (“Giving Ourselves …To The Ministry Of The Word” To Deaf People Worldwide”), I must be the person “in charge,” whether that be directing volunteer projects, teaching classes, or training interpreters in churches. One opportunity will be October 5-7. Please pray as I prepare for and teach a workshop at the Deaf Baptist Ladies Retreat in Pennsylvania. This will be my first time teaching at a Deaf ladies conference! The theme is “God’s Special Blend of Teas,” and my topic is “Hospitali-tea.” God has, and will again, help me to accomplish things I never dreamed of!
Highlights from the Summer – I had the privilege of again teaching the Beginner Sign Language Class at the ASL Institute. Students in the class included a mother whose daughter wants to be a missionary to the Deaf, a man called to reach Deaf in New Zealand, a pastor and his family, and an elderly father learning to better communicate with his daughter. It will be exciting to see how God uses them! I have been busy on Saturdays with events or online workshops. I am striving to interpret more visually, make better use of space, and show the meaning, not just translate words. A special thank you to those who provided financially for the workshop registrations.
I spent the week of July 4 with family. One day, we traveled to Clarksville, Tennessee for a family reunion. It was great to catch up with cousins I hadn’t seen in years. We had some interesting conversations about Deaf culture and ministry.
Upcoming – I am currently updating the SWM website for Fantastic Saturday events that will start in September. I am also excited about the SWM Missionary Retreat in August. I always look forward to the fellowship, refreshment, and teaching.
God has put me in just the right place to minister! 1 Corinthians 12 tells how God gives each Christian a special job to do and a place to fill within the body of Christ. He has certainly done so at SWM! In 1966, Dr. Camp used his leadership and writing abilities to establish SWM and begin “The Silent Word” newspaper and publishing ministry. Mrs. Camp faithfully supports her husband, ministering to many Deaf and hearing ladies. Bro. Barr teaches Bible to the Deaf and sign language to hearing people in simple, easy-to-understand ways. Mrs. Barr also ministers to Deaf and hearing ladies, and uses her financial skills to shop for discounts on supplies, and special project needs. She serves as the bookkeeper keeping track of the missionaries’ monthly support. Reed & Donna Condra minister to couples, grade the Deaf Bible Institute correspondence lessons, plus keep the grass cut and the facilities in good repair. When not in meetings, Deaf evangelist Allen Snare prints most of the tracts and books that SWM provides for ministries. Jackie Bradford knows a lot about plants and landscaping, as well as how to simplify projects. SWM volunteers also contribute much. Ray Short collates, staples, and binds books. Toni Reaves uses her sewing and decorating skills for the monthly Deaf fellowships that SWM hosts, plus helps with orders and cleaning. Jeremy & Vicki Shiffer assist with vehicular advice/care, video editing, and DVD duplication. Despite some serious health challenges, Sandy Ronan often helps with bulk mailings. Each member of the SWM team uniquely contributes to the work God has given us – both internationally and here in the USA! I wonder…has God given you an ability that He could use to help SWM? (Sign language not required!)
Volunteer Needs in Their Areas of Expertise: tech person to help with designing programs and troubleshooting devices, typists to edit/convert SWM publications to Kindle format, videographer to assist with ministry videos, electrician for projects, proofreaders, housekeepers to assist with cleaning, painters (for furniture), librarian (book organization), and more.
Please pray:
- To raise the final 8% of my needed support
- Wisdom & strength to teach Deaf ladies workshop
Praise:
- Financial provision for workshops
Thankful for you all,
Tabitha Beam
