October 2, 2026
We often think of people with disabilities as those most in need of care. What we might neglect to consider is how God has uniquely positioned these individuals to help others. However, that’s exactly what we see in Thailand, where a church made up of Deaf believers is providing aid and sharing the gospel after a disaster struck their country.
Story One Church is a first-generation church that teaches the Bible in Thai Sign Language. As the congregation was studying the book of Matthew, northern Thailand experienced unprecedented flooding, damaging and destroying property and possessions across the region. This church felt convicted to live out what they had been reading in Matthew 26:36: “I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.”
Story One went into their town and surrounding communities to help those affected by the floods. They handed out personal hygiene products and household cleaning supplies, distributed food, and assisted with cleaning out mud and debris left after the flood.
One woman shared how impactful the church’s work was, saying, “I was left with a daunting amount of silt and mud to clean up. I was feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to begin the cleanup process. Then, several members from the local Deaf church came to assist me. I was surprised and grateful that they didn’t just bring supplies but genuinely wanted to help clean and sanitize my home. They showed me such respect by asking for my permission before starting any work and made sure I was in control of my belongings. This kindness was so different.”
Story One’s efforts were especially impactful to other Deaf people in these communities. When government aid comes to villages, distributions are often announced over megaphones. Unless they have relatives or close friends who can assist them, Deaf people are left unaware of how to receive available help. Church members were able to perform wellness checks, making sure Deaf individuals in these towns had what they needed.
As they worked in areas, the church realized how serious a problem this lack of communication presented for so many people. They began to develop an emergency Deaf network, working to ensure important messages reach Deaf people living in surrounding areas. Additionally, they have become an important point of contact for northern Thailand’s Deaf community. If someone needs assistance, they can reach out to Story One and know they will receive practical help and compassionate care.
This church’s work in northern Thailand highlights the profound impact that people can have when they are empowered to serve others. The Deaf believers of Story One Church are demonstrating that they are active participants in God’s mission, serving as a beacon of hope and a model of Christlike service. Through their efforts, the gospel is being lived out, proving that every member of God’s kingdom is called to serve as the hands and feet of Jesus.
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