DEAF Member Baptized at Annual DEAF Weekend in Northboro, MA

Einar Rom, pastor of the College Church, prepares to baptize Rood Metellus at the annual 2025 DEAF Ministry Weekend.

From April 25 - 27, Southern New England Conference (SNEC) DEAF Ministry (Deaf Everywhere Are Family) held their 2025 Annual DEAF Weekend, “Faith Over Fear,” at the Northboro SDA Church in Northboro, MA.  Forty-eight DEAF members traveled from New York and across New England to attend this special weekend and learn from guest speaker, Paul Kelly, a retired Deaf pastor. In the spirit of Christian hospitality, members who live in the area hosted people traveling from far away. During the 2025 DEAF Weekend, more than $500 was collected to support Three Angels Deaf Ministries.

One of the highlights of the weekend was the baptism of DEAF member Rood Metellus.  Metellus came forward during an appeal made by John Bradshaw, director of It Is Written television ministry, during 2024 SNEC camp meeting. Metellus was able to understand Bradshaw’s sermons and respond to the gospel appeal because it was translated into American Sign Language, thanks to SNEC DEAF ministry.   Einar Rom, pastor of the College SDA church, studied with Metellus for 10+ months with the help of Jessica McGowan Smith, SNEC DEAF Ministry coordinator, who interpreted for Rom and Metellus. SNEC DEAF ministry is bearing fruit for eternity!

Pastor Einar Rom, Rood Metellus, and SNEC DEAF Ministry Coordinator, Jessica McGowan Smith (left to right).