1. When and why did you become a disciple?

I became a disciple in November 2009 because I wanted to become closer to God and trust in him more. I realized that I needed God after the death of my beloved Grandma Jean Sorrell.

2. Who reached out to you?

My Family and friends such as Eddie Field reached out to me and helped me understand the Bible more. Eddie also helped with providing visual aids to help me follow along with the songs and scriptures. Ms. Acree, my longtime interpreter at Triangle Church in Raleigh, NC, is a great example of helping others because for many years she has interpreted Sunday services for me.  In doing so she allowed me to have access to God’s Word through sign language.

3. What’s your best memory as a disciple?

My best memory as a disciple was being baptized into Jesus Christ. It felt so good to know that God loved me and forgave my sins through Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross.

4. What is your biggest challenge of being a deaf disciple?

My biggest challenge of being a Deaf disciple is communication problems.  I am currently the only Deaf disciple in the Triangle Church in Raleigh, NC and my College Church Piedmont Triad Church in Greensboro.  Another big challenge is feeling like an outcast. I am faced with attitude problems because I prefer to sign; however, because of the Hearing majority of the church, I use my second language of spoken English to communicate. Most people are not skilled in the use of sign language and I teach them signs from time to time but it is their own personal choice if they want to learn sign language.

5. What’s your favorite bible verse and why?

My favorite Bible verse is Philippians 4:13, “I can do anything through him who gives me strength.” (NIV) It reminds me that I can do anything through God who gives me the strength. I always have that verse to remind me that anything is possible with God. The world says you can’t do this because you are Deaf and have Cerebral Palsy. That verse reminds me that with God giving me strength I can run a 5k and play sports with other Hearing people.

6. What is your vision for the Deaf Ministry?

That the Deaf Ministry will continue to grow Worldwide and that more Deaf people will become disciples of Jesus Christ.  Also, that the Deaf Ministry will be an shining example to the World of serving others with love and compassion by helping other people whether blind, Deaf, crippled, hearing, or in prison.

7. What is your career goal?

My Career goals are to be a College coach, and to be an advocate for others with special needs to keep physically fit.

8. What is your strength as a disciple?

My strength as a disciple is encouraging other people.

9. Please share one bible verse that you would like to encourage to the Deaf Ministry ICOC family with.

Exodus 4:11 The LORD said to him, “Who gave man his mouth? Who makes him deaf or mute? Who gives him sight or makes him blind? Is it not I, the LORD? (NIV)  We are all special people to God and God made us Deaf for a reason.

10. What is your physical and spiritual goals for 2012?

My physical goal is to stay fit and my spiritual goal is to draw closer to God and to see the Deaf Ministry grow Worldwide.

In the photo shown below, and from the left, Nathan’s sister, Cassie, Nathan, and Tracy, Nathan’s Father.