The National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help, in partnership with the Benilde School of Deaf Education and Applied Studies (SDEAS), established the Special Ministry for the Deaf with the primary goal of ensuring that the Deaf community is fully involved and actively participates in the life and mission of the Church. This initiative supports the UN Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities, by promoting accessibility, inclusion, and equal participation for Deaf individuals in faith and community life.
The ministry provides regular Sunday Masses with Filipino Sign Language (FSL) interpreters, making worship accessible to Deaf devotees. Every September is dedicated as Deaf Awareness Month at the Shrine, encouraging all devotees to learn FSL and fostering understanding and respect for the Deaf community.
Deaf individuals are also encouraged to take part in various church ministries and to be included in the organizational structure of the Shrine, recognizing them not as mere recipients but as active members and leaders within the faith community. This inclusive approach breaks barriers, promotes equality, and strengthens unity in diversity within the Church.
Some of the notable activities are the Deaf Awareness, Sensitivity and Basic FSL Workshop and Dance for Christ which are done annually every September.
