uring the spring of 2002, a new ministry emerged at the First Baptist Church of Perrine.  This ministry was composed of a group of teenagers who wanted to worship and praise using American Sign Language.  After weeks of practice, the Deafciples held their first performance on Saturday May 4th, 2002.  Using American Sign Language, they interpreted the song "God of Wonders," by ThirdDay and "Call on Jesus," by Nicole C. Mullen.  Since then, they have continued to practice every Sunday afternoon, rain or shine.  The Deafciples  perform during church services, group activities, Deaf gatherings, and outside events, such as in local malls during the holiday season.

The purpose of the Deafciples ministry is to provide Christian music in an alternative form via American Sign Language.  As a result, the Deaf community can experience praise and worship as they never have before, and are provided an essential link to the to the world around them which often excludes them in isolation.  Performances often intrigue both hearing and Deaf audiences which in turn attracts them to our church.  Areas of interest may be serving in the Deaf ministry, learning American Sign Language, joining the Deafciples, or simply visiting our church out of curiosity sparked by our creative and unique ministry.  Thus, the Deafciples ministry is often used as a tool to reach the community for Christ by providing a reason to "try out" our church.