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On September 6, 2025, members of the Toronto Spanish and the Downsview Seventh-day Adventist churches gathered to celebrate a significant milestone: the successful completion of their American Sign Language (ASL) training program.

The program, organized by the Possibility Ministry at Downsview Seventh-day Adventist Church, began on March 9 and continued for ten weeks. It attracted a diverse group of 34 participants eager to apply their new skills in ministry. Jamal Green, a Deaf member of the church, led the training with assistance from instructor Mitsie Howe. Participants varied widely in age and experience, including three Pathfinders and one Adventurer. Each session combined hands-on learning with fellowship, fostering a shared passion for creating a more inclusive church environment for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community.

The graduation ceremony was a joyful celebration that featured ASL Scripture readings, heartfelt testimonies, and demonstrations of the communication skills participants had worked hard to develop. This initiative not only provided valuable tools for ministry but also inspired a vision of a church where every individual can fully experience worship and community without communication barriers.

“We are grateful for the commitment of our graduates and the support of both congregations,” shared Mitsie Howe, Assistant Instructor and Executive Coordinator for the Ontario Conference Adventurer Council. “Learning from Jamal has been a blessing for us all. This training opens new opportunities for ministry and reflects Christ’s love in a practical way.”

With this graduating class, the Possibility Ministry celebrates another step toward its mission: creating a church family where every person—regardless of ability—is welcomed, valued, and empowered to serve.

Vera Grant-Green

Possibility Ministry Leader,

Downsview Seventh-day Adventist Church