“Training Deaf & Hearing People to
Reach the Deaf World for Christ”
Meet Jon and Diane
Jon and Diane Barr are missionaries with Silent Word Ministries.
They have been ministering to the Deaf world together since 1981.
PRAYER LETTERS & UPDATES
There is always something happening at Silent Word Ministries. Pray for our literature ministry, Fantastic Saturdays, ASL Institute training for church interpreters, video ministry, the Silent Word Newspaper, and more.
Get Our Prayer Letters By Email2024-11 Prayer Letter
“O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together.” – Psalm 34:3
Recently, as I reviewed several of the attributes or characteristics of God, I was reminded of the many reasons we have to be thankful. As you read this list, pause to consider each of these qualities of our Great God! God is Holy (Isaiah 57:15), Righteous (PS 145:17),
Read more2024-11 Prayer Letter (SWM)
“They bring unto him one that was deaf” (Mark 7:32-37).
Notice that they brought one. Notice that the one was deaf. Recently, in an article for The Silent Word newspaper entitled, “Hidden in Plain Sight,” I shared some of the unique needs of Deaf people. Deafness is unseen. In my experience, most “hearing” people never think about those who are deaf.
Read more2024-08 Prayer Letter
A friend recently asked, “Is it just me, or does time pass faster these days?” Our life is as a vapor (James 4:14), with each year passing more quickly. We are excited to share with you a summary of what the Lord is doing.
Meetings – This has been a busy year ministering in churches and events around the country.
Read more2024-06 Prayer Letter (SWM)
“And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses,
the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.” – 2 Timothy 2:2
As Director of the Silent Word Mission Board, and considering the 34 people on our mission team, it is very clear to me that missions requires a large team—much larger than most people think.
Read moreFAQ
What is Fantastic Saturday?
Fantastic Saturdays and D-Days (Deaf Days) are free, area-wide, all-day workshops for deaf people, deaf ministry workers and hearing people. The day is filled with excitement, encouragement, and fun. Everyone is invited to attend. All teaching will be voiced and signed. SWM literature and materials will be available at discounted prices. Lunch is provided by the host church. A love offering will be received. We look forward to seeing you at a Fantastic Saturday or D-Day in your area.
WHO
All Deaf and Hearing people are welcome. You do not need to know sign language.
LUNCH
The host church provides a light lunch at no charge. Come and enjoy!
COST
Free. There is no charge. An offering will be received to help with the expenses of the speakers.
WHERE
These meetings are conducted in selected areas. Click to learn more.
Learn More About Fantastic SaturdayFAQ
What is ASL Institute?
Church interpreters value professional American Sign Language training in a Christian environment. ASLI and Deaf Bible Conference are regional, 3-day training meetings hosted by selected churches.
WHO
Deaf and Hearing people are welcome. There are classes for beginners and workshops for intermediate and advanced signers.
ASL INSTITUTE
There is something for all levels of signers from beginners (learning ABCs) to intermediate and advanced signers.
COST
The $50 registration includes all classes, materials, and Friday lunch and supper. Please arrange your own lodging. A hotel list is provided
TIMES
ASLI starts on Thursday after supper and ends on Saturday before lunch. Friday classes meet from 8AM to 6PM.
Learn More about ASLI & DBCJoin our Support Team!
Contact us
“Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;
Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.” — Matthew 9:37-38









