The National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help and De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde’s School of Deaf Education and Applied Studies (SDEAS) have formally entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to establish a Special Ministry for the Deaf community. This meaningful partnership seeks to create a more inclusive, accessible, and faith-nurturing environment where Deaf individuals can experience holistic human and spiritual growth.
Since 2018, the National Shrine and SDEAS have been working together to provide accessible human and faith formation programs for the Deaf. This newly signed MOA serves as a formal recognition and strengthening of their ongoing collaboration, ensuring that both institutions continue to work hand in hand in supporting the spiritual development and inclusion of the Deaf community.
Through this collaboration, both institutions commit to developing programs, worship services, and formation activities that allow Deaf students and community members to fully participate in their faith journey. It also provides opportunities for leadership, service, and community involvement, empowering Deaf individuals to share their faith through Filipino Sign Language (FSL) and to take active roles within the Church.
This agreement holds deep significance for the Deaf community of both the Shrine and Benilde. By ensuring equal access to spiritual formation and pastoral care, the partnership fosters a sense of belonging, dignity, and empowerment, inspiring Deaf individuals to grow in faith and to share the Gospel through their unique gifts and expressions.
