Thare Nongseng: The Catholic Church in Thailand has launched a new initiative to strengthen pastoral outreach to the Deaf community, beginning with a specialized training program for seminarians at Fatima Minor Seminary in the Archdiocese of Thare-Nongseng.
From August 22–24, seminarians took part in workshops led by Fr. Peter Bhuravaj Searaariyah, Director of Pastoral Ministry for the Deaf in the Diocese of Chanthaburi and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Thailand. With the support of seminary rector Fr. Chatchai Nilkhet, the program introduced participants to religious sign language, pastoral approaches to working with the Deaf, and active participation in Thai Sign Language (TSL) Mass. The seminarians also learned to proclaim the Liturgy of the Word through sign language.
Fr. Peter emphasized that the program is more than a language course it is a path to deeper inclusivity. “Many Deaf people live in isolation and feel excluded from opportunities hearing people take for granted. True ministry requires more than signs. It demands listening, trust, and ensuring access to the sacraments,” he said.
The initiative drew a strong response from seminarians, with many expressing a desire to expand their skills in sign language and Deaf culture. A group of about 15 seminarians has already created an online network to exchange resources, discuss pastoral challenges, and explore the role of technology in bridging communication gaps. Plans are underway for in-person gatherings to strengthen this community of future ministers.
Encouraged by the success of the pilot sessions, Fr. Peter said the training will soon be extended to other seminaries and to novices in both male and female religious congregations. “If we prepare our future priests and religious with understanding and compassion today, tomorrow’s Church will be ready to embrace the Deaf community with dignity,” he noted.
The program resonates with broader efforts of the global Church to recognize the rights and gifts of the Deaf. Since 2008, the Vatican-supported Service for the Pastoral Care of Deaf People and their Families has promoted equal dignity, accessibility, and full participation of the Deaf in Church life.
For Fr. Peter, the seminar at Thare marks an important step in Thailand’s journey toward a more inclusive Church. “The seminarians’ enthusiasm gives us hope. By forming them now, Thailand can become a model for the wider Asian Church, where trained Deaf chaplains remain scarce,” he said.