Introducing JR Bucklew!

Jonathan “JR” Bucklew: A Journey of Faith and Service in Deaf Ministry

Jonathan “JR” Bucklew, a dedicated advocate for deaf ministry, was born and raised in Haughton, Louisiana, to Kelton and Michelle Bucklew. As a Child of Deaf Adults (CODA), JR’s upbringing uniquely prepared him for a life of service. Being homeschooled provided numerous opportunities to gain experience in interpretation and ministry work within the deaf community throughout his high school years.

A Calling to Serve in Ethiopia

In 2009, JR traveled to Ethiopia to visit a missionary for two months. This trip was a turning point in his life. During his time there, he felt a profound calling from the Lord to return and serve among the deaf population. By the summer of 2010, JR answered that call and moved to Mekelle, Ethiopia, located in the Tigray region.

For two years, JR dedicated himself to working with deaf children and adults throughout Tigray. His efforts included preaching the Gospel, teaching sign language, and providing compassionate care to meet their needs. Through his ministry, JR has made a lasting impact by fostering a sense of community and hope among the deaf population.

Building a Ministry with a Heart for the Deaf

JR’s home church, Antioch Baptist Church of Dixie Inn, Louisiana, played a significant role in supporting his mission. In 2011, JR married Feven Zegeye Habterufael, an Ethiopian believer he met through their local fellowship. United by their faith and devotion, JR and Feven have worked tirelessly to spread the Gospel and disciple members of the deaf community.

Together, JR and Feven established the Signs of Peace Ministry Café in Mekelle and the Signs of Peace Project Center in the village of Hagere Selam. These initiatives aim to teach deaf children sign language, enabling them to understand and share in the message of Christ. Living in a region where there are over 40,000 deaf children but only one deaf school with 74 students, JR and Feven recognized the enormous need for educational and spiritual support.

Joining Deaf Child Hope International

In 2012, JR joined Deaf Child Hope International as an Associate Field Director. His role allows him to continue serving his local ministry while also assisting Deaf Child Hope with partner relations in Ethiopia and surrounding areas. This partnership has strengthened efforts to provide essential resources such as food, education, and spiritual guidance to deaf children.

The Ongoing Mission

JR and Feven’s work is an inspiring testament to the transformative power of faith and compassion. Their mission continues to bridge the gap for Ethiopia’s deaf community, offering them the gift of language and the opportunity to hear the Gospel. Despite challenges, they remain steadfast in their dedication to sharing Christ’s love.

How You Can Help

The need for assistance in Ethiopia is immense. With over 40,000 deaf children and limited educational resources, JR and Feven rely on the support of compassionate individuals and organizations. Here are ways you can contribute:

• Pray: Pray for JR, Feven, and the deaf community in Ethiopia. Ask for strength, wisdom, and resources to continue their mission.
• Sponsor: Support Deaf Child Hope International through the sponsorship of children in need today.
• Spread Awareness: Share their story to inspire others to get involved in deaf missions.

JR and Feven’s journey exemplifies how faith can drive impactful change. Their work continues to bless countless lives by giving deaf children the language and tools they need to thrive and hear the life-changing message of the Gospel.