Deaf children in the Middle East are neglected because of their impairment. They miss out in family life, education and economic opportunities. Many Muslim parents believe deaf children bring shame to the family. There are an estimated 21,000 deaf Lebanese to whom no one is proclaiming Christ. Now, by introducing sign-language into existing outreaches to the Muslim people in Lebanon, 90 deaf people have already come to Christ. Last year the same mission group were involved with a child protection programme that exposed the need for education to protect children from various forms of abuse. The ministry plans to hold five conferences to educate deaf children, their parents and schoolteachers about sexual abuse, kidnapping, child protection resources and children's rights. They also intend translating their highly successful leadership training into sign-language. Those who come to Christ would then be equipped to reach other deaf people with the message of Christ. See also: http://www.finishingthetask.com/about.html