Kesi Asher, Staff Reporter
LOVE IN any language, even sign language, comes straight from the heart of PAWS.
Praise And Worship through Sign (PAWS) is a 10 member sign language group which believes in making the ministry available to all, in whatever form. "PAWS is a ministry with one aim in mind, to minister to the hearing impaired and to those who can hear. Our destiny is heaven," said Tameko Smith, a member of the group.
The group not only does sign language, they also sing. "We sign as a group; sometimes individuals may represent the group. We are very versatile and are committed to delivering the gospel through song and sign," said Tameko.
The members of the group have a close bond, as they are all from the same church.
They have all been attending the New Haven Seventh-day Adventist Church from in their early teens. In addition, they all are a part of the church's Pathfinder Club and spend most of their spare time together.
ENJOY MINISTERING
"We've been friends for a long time, and we enjoy ministering through sign. Each one can lead one; as we follow after Christ, we all can reach one," said Tameko.
The other members of the group who minister along with her are Tracy-Ann Gray, Natalie Nesbeth-Brown, Michelle Sinclair, Janice Sinclair, Leon Sinclair, Alicia Henry, Karen Mais-Lewis and Leslie-Ann James. Jennifer Simms, their teacher, is an important part of the group. Toussaint James manages the group and co-ordinates their many activities.
These activities have taken them far and wide and into the company of many. PAWS performed in the Cayman Islands in 2004, they signed alongside the group Acapella in 2003 and also appeared at the launch at George Gordon's album in Kingston and Ocho Rios. The group also performs at churches, concerts and functions.
PAWS was formed in summer 1998 at the Pathfinder Camp in Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth. The name 'PAWS' came about when one of the members had a dream in which she saw a dog's paws. "She interpreted the dog's paws as human hands, which spelt out Praise and Worship in Signs," said Tameko.
MESSAGES NEEDED
The group continues to spread the gospel and feels that their message in song and sign is needed now more than ever. "We are doing everything now and will continue to do so, to make sure that the message of love goes out to all. The country needs love, and we will continue to do our part and show them Jesus loves them," said Tameko.
