Mormon ASL congregation worships together for 18 years

By Kayla A. Swenson

Ursula Jaussi the organist of the Mormon Cache Valley sign language branch began to play a soft hymn. Her fingers hit the chords and the congregation waited to feel the vibration. They raised their hands in unison and began to sing with their fingers.

This Sunday the LDS Cache Valley sign language branch reflected on 18 years of worship services. In 1997 the small branch held its first Sunday meetings in a Logan chapel. Now the branch has 70 deaf members attending from as far as Bear Lake.

“It’s made all the difference,” said Ruth Macari a member of the deaf branch. “Before we went to a deaf branch I’d sit in the front row and I would try so hard to figure out what they were saying that I couldn’t feel the spirit.”

During the worship services a projector magnifies the speaker on a screen above the pulpit so that all members can see the signs. The branch also has three interpreters for visitors who can’t sign.

Macari said that the deaf branch has provided her with the freedom to relax, watch the signs and feel uplifted by the sermons.

“She was an outsider in the hearing ward,” said Thomas Macari, the husband of Ruth Macari. “In the deaf branch she is the relief society president where she can use all of her skills.”

Ruth Macari and other members have enjoyed leadership callings that allow them to give back to their church family. She said that now she can be directly involved in service to the church. 

“I like to be hanging around the deaf people because it is the same language and we feel comfortable,” said Pablo Nieves, a high counselor who looks over the branch.

Members of the deaf branch feel united as they openly communicate with one another. Bishop Doyle Page, the President of the branch said he is grateful for a church family that speaks and teaches in his language.

“When I finally understand the signing I learn a lot about the gospel,” Page said.

Page said that his faith has been built on signs.

“When I am alone I pray in sign language and I can feel that God understands me,” Page said.