How do you prefer to engage with God’s Word?

God gave us senses to engage with the world around us — sight, hearing, smell, taste and touch. Through these means, we experience His masterful creation that displays His glory and might. But did you know that Scripture can also be a multisensory experience?

Engaging with Scripture doesn’t have to be boring. It can be dynamic, conversational and even fun! People are drawn to Scripture-based stories like “The Chosen” or Angel Studio’s film “David” because we are multisensory — we long to experience the Bible through all of our senses, not just through reading words on a page.

In Isaiah 55:11, the Lord declares: “It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it” (NLT). And that’s exactly what’s happening, not only in the U.S. but in countries around the world. People are engaging with Scripture in multisensory and multimodal ways — reading, watching, hearing or acting — and, as a result, their lives are being transformed.

As followers of Jesus, we each have varying levels of Scriptural knowledge. These levels can depend on how long we’ve been believers, how in-depth our study of the Word is, or even how frequently we choose to engage with Scripture.

As with most things in life, we often get out what we put in; the more time and energy we invest in God’s Word, the more fruit we experience from not only Scripture but also our relationship with Jesus.

But what if you didn’t have access to Scripture in a language and format you could clearly understand? What if you didn’t have any Scripture at all?

That’s why Bible translation exists: Because we believe that God’s Word should be available for all people, giving them the opportunity to encounter Jesus personally and experience His love in ways that not only make sense to them but also speak directly to their hearts.

Scripture Brought to Life

When was the last time you engaged with Scripture in multisensory ways? In the West, it’s very easy to break it down and focus on only one or two senses at a time. We do this through:

• Reading the Bible
• Listening to a podcast
• Watching a Bible-based show or movie

But what happens when we combine these into a multisensory experience? That’s exactly what is happening in many communities around the world as they translate the Bible into their own languages. It’s done through a process called FIA, which stands for familiarization, internalization and articulation.

At its core, FIA is a hands-on, experiential method of oral Bible translation (the translation of Scripture for oral cultures and communities without a written language). It’s also being used in sign language Bible translation, as Deaf participants bring Scripture to life through physical reenactments and in-depth study. The approach invites broad participation from local communities; engages the intellect, emotion and body in the translation process; and leverages consultant-checked exegetical resources that lead to high-quality Scripture translation.

Participants experience six steps that guide them through the process of familiarizing, internalizing and articulating Scripture passages. Each one is designed to build a comprehensive understanding of what is happening in the verse or passage as participants collectively consider: “How would this step help us make a clear, meaningful translation of this passage?” Once all six FIA steps are completed, the end product is a draft of a translated Scripture passage.

One exciting thing about FIA is that those involved are often transformed by Scripture through the very process of translating it — some from within communities with no available verses in their language prior to engaging in this process! Through each passage they tackle as a team, they gain a deeper understanding of who God is and what He’s communicating to His people.

For millions of people around the world, their Bible is blank or incomplete. Some communities don’t have any Scripture, and others are still waiting to have the full counsel of God’s Word. When your church hosts an Adopt-a-Verse event, you become part of a global story of faith, generosity and transformation.

Make a Difference Through Adopt-a-Verse →

Familiarization, Internalization and Articulation Exercise

If you’re looking to shake up your engagement with Scripture, the FIA process is a rich way to glean new or deeper meaning from God’s Word! We call this “FIA Lite” because it’s not as in-depth as the process translation teams use, but it can still breathe new life into how you engage with biblical passages. Here’s a quick overview of the familiarization, internalization and articulation process:

STEP 1: Hear and Heart

To get started, a translation team will listen to the passage of Scripture in a language of wider communication and in as many translations as they can. Then they will discuss the passage together, asking questions like:

• What do you like in this passage?
• What do you not like or not understand in this passage?
• What does this passage tell us about God, Jesus or the Holy Spirit?
• What does this passage tell us about people?
• How does this passage affect our daily lives?

STEP 2: Setting the Stage

Now the team listens to the whole context of a passage. This context might be historical, cultural, linguistic or geographical. For example, they might look at pictures and maps to better understand the passage’s context. They will then discuss some of that context as a group and how it relates to their own culture.

STEP 3: Defining the Scenes

Now that the stage is set, the translation team will explore the different scenes and characters in the passage. They may visualize the setting and narrative by drawing, storyboarding, or creating dioramas for greater understanding.

STEP 4: Embodying the Text

The Bible isn’t made up of just words on a page! Inside are the real stories of real people. To help bring the story to life, the translation team acts out the story twice. The first time, they act out the story with a focus on the flow of events. The second time, they stop at different points in the story and discuss what different characters might be feeling or thinking — and how that impacts meaning.

STEP 5: Filling the Gaps

Now that the passage has come to life, the translation team shifts their focus to the specific terms and concepts in the story, accessing FIA knowledge resources as needed. Then they discuss how they express these things in their language and begin choosing how to translate certain words and phrases.

STEP 6: Speaking the Word

As the final step in the process, the translation team practices speaking or signing the passage in their language. As a group, they discuss the words and phrases they will use when drafting their oral translation.

This process isn’t quick, nor is it meant to be shallow; it requires vulnerability, contemplation and intentionality. It involves wrestling with Scripture and thinking through ways to bring it to life without adding or subtracting anything from these God-breathed verses. The end result is seeing God’s Word come to life in ways that communities can clearly understand.

God’s Word for All People, That All May Be Transformed

Wycliffe and our partners are continuing to pursue a day when God’s Word is available to all people in the languages and formats they can clearly understand, so they can meet Jesus personally and be transformed.

But don’t take our word for it! Get a taste of the life transformation that happens when people are able to read, hear or watch Scripture come to life in a way that captures their hearts forever.

God Speaks Akebu

Alex has been a Christian for 25 years. But something incredibly emotional happened when he received the Word of God in his own language of Akebu.

He said: “When I learned that the New Testament had been translated and was going to be dedicated in the Akebu language, my heart was filled with enthusiasm. … I was able to follow the entire dedication on [a gospel radio station]. What I saw and heard deeply moved me. Tears streamed down my face, and I couldn’t hold them back. I asked myself: ‘Is the Word of God really translated into Akebu? Is that possible?’

“Driven by this emotion, I decided to visit my brother, Junior, a member of the translation team. … Once I arrived, I asked him to show me the New Testament in Akebu. When he handed it to me, I held it in my arms like a treasure … and burst into tears. My tears flowed so freely that my brother became concerned. I was overwhelmed with emotion.

“I then asked him to read John 3:16 to me in our language. And when he finished reading, I asked him this question: ‘Is this really what God wants to tell me?’ For 25 years, I had heard this verse, read it, preached it … but I had never understood it as I did that day. Listening to it in my mother tongue, it was as if God was sitting next to me, speaking to me directly, heart-to-heart.

“That day, I understood that God also speaks Akebu and that He wants each of us to hear His voice in the language that touches our soul most deeply.”

God’s Word for the Tewoyan

“After more than 10 years, finally today we have the Bible in our language.”

Pak’s voice wavered as he made the declaration to those gathered for the event in Indonesia. The New Testament in Tewoyan was finally complete! This is the team that Pak served with as a translator for the past few years.

It’s also the very same team that he wasn’t supposed to be on.

At the start of the project, Pak had applied to be a translator. At the time, however, he wasn’t chosen to participate. “Originally, I didn’t pass the translation selection,” he shared in his speech. “I didn’t qualify as a translator.”

But God hadn’t dismissed Pak from His services just yet. In the years that followed, Pak would eventually qualify for the position. Now he is honored to have been used by God to bring this translation of Scripture to fruition.

As Pak reflected on his own journey, those around him processed the magnitude of this occasion. One woman said, “I am grateful that I can finally see the Tewoyan [New Testament]; I thought I would not live long enough to see the Word of God available in our language.”

Explore more stories of life transformation through the Bible Translation Experience, an interactive storytelling website.

Experience Impact Stories →

Scripture for Every Heart, Everywhere

God is on the move, and He’s accelerating the work of Bible translation all around the world. Whether it’s through processes like FIA, sign language Bible translation using AI technology or otherwise, it’s not just about the translation of Scripture — it’s about the lives that are transformed because they’ve been able to experience Jesus personally.

Together, let’s step out prayerfully and in bold faith, participating with God:

• To see Bible translation start for every language still needing it
• To equip the Church for evangelism, discipleship and church planting
• To make Scripture available so that every man, woman and child can encounter Jesus personally and understand His love in a way that transforms their lives forever

In partnership, we move forward with confident anticipation toward the day when people “from every nation and tribe and people and language” will stand together and worship God (see Revelation 7:9a, NLT). Yes and amen!

A Generous Heart Changes the World

Most of us can remember a moment when generosity changed something: a neighbor delivered a meal when life felt heavy, a stranger paid for our coffee or a loved one gave us a gift. Generosity has a way of reminding us that we’re not alone. It does more than meet a need — it restores hope. And, in God’s hands, what feels small rarely stays small.

Scripture treats generosity as a reflection of God’s own heart. It’s not a spiritual transaction or a religious duty meant to earn approval. It’s the natural overflow of grace. Paul wrote, “And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others” (2 Corinthians 9:8, NLT). Proverbs described generosity not as depletion but renewal: “The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25, NLT).

This is one of the quiet wonders of biblical generosity: God provides, His people give and the result is not loss but multiplication — more good works, more communities strengthened and more evidence of God’s care in the world.

That’s why generosity matters in the mission of Bible translation. When people give, they’re not simply funding an organization or supporting a project. They’re partnering with something far bigger: helping bring God’s Word to people who have never had access to Scripture in a language they clearly understand.

Generosity is often a chain reaction — when we are the recipients of generosity, we often pass it on to others. In 2022, Barna reported that 54% of givers said they had experienced generosity themselves, compared to 36% of nongivers. Often those who practice generosity have seen it modeled, have experienced it personally and now want to model it for others.

That’s how generosity goes from becoming an act to becoming a pattern and a culture. One act of giving can strengthen a family, encourage a church, equip a translation team and help entire people groups encounter Scripture — not just here and now but for generations to come. What begins as one person’s act of generosity can ripple outward across communities, borders and languages, until what was once personal becomes global.

Christian generosity is the open handed use of God-given resources to worship God and serve others. It reflects His grace and often multiplies an impact beyond what the giver can see.

Keep reading to learn more about:

• What the Bible Really Says About Giving
• What Research Reveals About Modern Generosity
• Why Bible Translation Is a Gift That Keeps Giving
• Can I Trust Wycliffe With My Gift?
• Ways to Give That Make a Lasting Difference
• Living Generously in Everyday Life
• Together We Can Finish the Task
• Frequently Asked Questions

What the Bible Really Says About Giving

When most people hear the word “giving,” they think about money, a budget, a donation or a decision.

But the Bible talks about generosity in a deeper way; it treats giving as a heart issue — not because money is the most important thing in life, but because it so easily can become the thing we depend on. That’s why God’s Word doesn’t just ask, “Will you give?” It asks, “What do you trust?” and “What do you treasure?”

The Bible teaches that giving is an act of worship and trust, not a way to earn God’s favor. Generosity reflects what we value most and helps form us into people who live open handedly.

Giving As Worship and Obedience

Jesus spoke about money often, but not because He wanted to talk about finances. He wanted to talk about our hearts.

In Luke 12, Jesus said to live open handedly, to “… give to those in need …” and that doing so will store up treasure that cannot be taken away (Luke 12:33-34). In Matthew 6, He stated a simple truth that most of us have experienced: “Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be” (Matthew 6:21, NLT).

That’s what makes generosity so powerful. Giving isn’t just something we do after we trust God. Giving is often one of the ways we learn to trust Him.

And that’s why giving is not transactional — it’s transformational.

You can see this reflected in research too. In 2022, Barna found that when people give, it’s usually not because they were convinced by a perfect pitch or pressured by the right ask. While some people gave because of the ministry (6%), the person who asked (8%), the reason (11%) or the method (7%), 69% of adults said they gave because of who they are. For practicing Christians, that rises to 77%.

Generosity is tied to identity. For Christians, giving becomes one way of saying, “My life belongs to Jesus.” It’s worship using our resources and obedience that shapes us over time.

The Early Church and Radical Generosity

The Book of Acts gives one of the clearest pictures of what generosity looks like when it becomes part of everyday discipleship. The early Christians didn’t treat giving as a rare spiritual moment or something reserved for people with extra income. Instead generosity was woven into the life of the Church as a natural response to the gospel.

Acts 2 described a community marked by unity and shared responsibility: “And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need” (Acts 2:44-45, NLT).

It’s important to notice what this kind of generosity was and what it was not. It was not performative or guilt-driven. It was not about earning God’s favor. It was a Spirit-led expression of love where Christians chose to live open handedly because they belonged to one another in Christ.

In Acts, generosity is also closely tied to worship and witness. The Church gathered together, prayed, shared meals and shared resources. Their life together was evidence of the gospel at work. People didn’t just hear about Jesus; they saw His character reflected in the ways the community cared for one another.

While Christians today may not sell all of their land or possessions, the heart of Acts 2 remains something the Church should model: God’s people sharing what they have so others can receive what they need. When Christians give toward Bible translation, they’re participating in communal generosity that strengthens the global Church and helps ensure that Scripture is accessible to every language community still waiting.

Giving isn’t solely about meeting people’s needs — it’s about belonging. It’s a tangible way Christians to tell others that they matter to God and that His Word is for them too.

What Research Reveals About Modern Generosity

Generosity still exists today, but it might feel more complicated than it used to.

There are more needs all around us, more causes competing for our attention and more people asking for help. Many people want to give, but they also want to give wisely. They want their generosity to matter, but they also want to trust the people they’re partnering with.

Research helps put language to what many donors already know: Generosity is changing, and trust has become a bigger part of the giving decision.

The State of Generosity Today

A key shift in today’s giving culture is that many Christians define generosity more broadly than financial donations.

In 2019, when Barna asked American Christians to describe what actions they most associate with “giving to others,” service (31%) and emotional or relational support (25%) were the top responses, while giving money (19%) came in third. This suggests that for many Christians, generosity is closely tied to their time, presence, care and personal connection — not only to financial donations.

Time with a neighbor, helping a friend through a hard season or listening to someone’s story are all tangible ways people recognize that they live generously each day.

Generosity still matters, and people still value it. Barna’s 2019 research indicated that almost nine in 10 practicing Christians say generosity is either extremely or very important to them. That means most Christians want to be generous — they just might express it in different ways depending on their season of life and resources.

Giving patterns also vary by age and life stage. According to Barna research, younger adults may have fewer financial resources to give, but they often express generosity in other ways that reflect their values and capacity. Older adults, who may have more financial comfort, often show generosity through established patterns of giving.

Why Trust and Transparency Matter More Than Ever

While many people want to live generously, a common question today is: “Where can I give with confidence?”

People respond to generosity emotionally at first; they want to make a difference, are moved by a compelling story or can see the real impact of their support. But after that initial emotional response, many donors want reassurance that their gift will be handled responsibly and used wisely.

This is why trust and transparency have become central to decisions about giving. Donors increasingly look for clear information about how funds are spent, how progress is measured and whether a ministry’s practices match its mission.

For faith-based organizations, being transparent is not just good practice — it helps people give with confidence and peace of mind.

Donors today are more likely to give when they have confidence in an organization’s credibility, clear reporting and responsible stewardship.

Why Bible Translation Is a Gift That Keeps Giving

Most Christians want their generosity to matter, not just for a moment but for eternity.

When people give, they’re often wondering: “Will this actually change anything?” Bible translation answers that question in a unique way. It helps people access God’s Word, opening the door for people to encounter Jesus in a language that feels deeply personal.

Bible translation continues to advance around the world, but there’s still more work to be done. Andy Keener, chief partnerships officer at Wycliffe USA explained, “We are asking God to raise up new partners to start Bible translation in the few hundred languages that are still without any translated Scripture — many of which represent the hardest of the hard-to-reach places in the world.”

Bible translation continues working long after the initial investment is made. Once Scripture exists in a language, it can be shared, taught and passed on for generations. Families are transformed by it, churches grow from it and communities are shaped by it.

Giving toward Bible translation is an invitation to take part in something God is already doing around the world. It’s a way to stand with people who are still waiting to encounter His Word in a language they clearly understand.

This is why Bible translation matters; it reaches far beyond the moment of generosity, changing lives and communities for generations to come.

The Power of Scripture in Every Language

Language matters because it shapes how people think, pray and understand truth. For many communities around the world, Scripture has never existed in the language they use at home — the language they dream in, think in and teach their children in.

Meg Hunt, senior director of strategic services at Wycliffe USA, explained: “God’s Word in a different language [is] a barrier to people knowing Jesus.”

Wycliffe is committed to seeing God’s Word made available in every language. In an interview in 2025, Meg noted: “There are over 7,000 [spoken and signed] languages worldwide … and there are over 560 communities that don’t have a single verse [of Scripture] in their language.”

For those communities, a lack of Bible access isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a barrier that prevents them from knowing Jesus.

When Scripture is available in a language people clearly understand, something changes: God’s Word is no longer filtered through another culture or language. It becomes familiar, clear, personal and transformative.

That’s why at Wycliffe, we believe Bible translation is about more than just producing a text; it’s about personal transformation. Meg echoed this belief when she shared: “It’s not just [about] putting a product in people’s hands, but recognizing that God’s Word transforms lives. And so when we are able to provide God’s Word in the local language, people’s lives will be transformed.”

Partnership That Multiplies Impact

No single organization can accomplish this work alone. Bible translation is global, complex and deeply relational. That’s why partnership and collaboration are central to Wycliffe’s approach.

“You’ll hear the name Wycliffe,” Meg Hunt said, “but that’s really a placeholder for all the partner organizations involved. There’s really no way that a single organization could accomplish this kind of mission.” Wycliffe works with more than 3,000 field partners, churches and like-minded ministries, along with more than 20,000 individuals, participating in projects to see people encounter Jesus through Scripture in a language and format they clearly understand.

This collaborative model means resources are shared rather than duplicated. Organizations pool their expertise and coordinate their strategies. Kelly Chesnut, spiritual development officer at Wycliffe USA, described it: “There’s an open handed generosity that has developed as a result of this collaboration together. We don’t just share technology; we’re sharing donors … we’re sharing strategies. … We don’t want to be redundant, so we’re talking together to ensure that as we start new languages, we’re not stepping on anyone else’s toes or we’re not starting something that someone else has already started.”

Partnership also honors local churches. Translation work is carried out with local believers who know their language, culture and community best. “We are really privileged and blessed to partner with churches and local Bible translation organizations in different countries to really see their vision for Bible translation fulfilled,” Meg Hunt explained. “We want to support the local church. We believe that Bible translation is a ministry of the Church, and communities … are strengthened when they have God’s Word.”

For donors, this means their generosity goes further: A single gift doesn’t support just one organization or effort. It becomes part of a shared movement, multiplying its impact across regions, languages and communities.

Can I Trust Wycliffe With My Gift?

Giving is personal, and people want to know that their generosity will be handled with care and used well.

We understand that trust is earned. That’s why financial integrity and transparency are treated as core responsibilities at Wycliffe. When you give to Bible translation, you’re placing your confidence in us to manage your resources well, and we take that responsibility seriously.

Financial Stewardship That Honors God

Wycliffe follows clear, widely recognized standards for financial accountability. We’re accredited by the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA), which reviews governance practices, financial reporting and ethical fundraising. This accreditation exists to help donors give with confidence.

Wycliffe has also earned Candid’s Platinum Seal of Transparency, the highest level of recognition for nonprofit transparency. This distinction reflects a commitment to sharing clear, accessible information about financial practices, progress and impact so donors can understand how their generosity is making a difference.

Gifts given to Wycliffe are directed toward the work that makes Bible translation possible, including:

• Translation and language development for communities still waiting for Scripture
• Scripture engagement so people can understand and use God’s Word
• Training, support and oversight to ensure translations are accurate and faithful

These practices help ensure that your generosity is stewarded wisely and used to make a lasting impact. Donors can give knowing their support is helping bring God’s Word to people who have never had it in their language before.

Ways to Give That Make a Lasting Difference

When people feel confident that a gift will be handled with care and integrity, the next question is often a practical one: “How can I participate?”

There’s no single right way to give. Generosity might look different for you depending on the season of life you’re in. At Wycliffe, we offer multiple ways for people to get involved in Bible translation, whether it’s through ongoing monthly support, giving to a specific project, partnering with the ministry of a Wycliffe missionary or donating through long-term planning.

Each option allows your generosity to make a real impact and plays a role in helping bring God’s Word to people who are still waiting for it.

Monthly Partners: Fueling Ongoing Translation

Bible translation is long-term work. Translation can often take years of careful, faithful effort, and consistent generosity matters. Monthly giving plays a unique role in helping Bible translation move forward without interruption.

Through Wycliffe’s community of monthly donors called WordGivers, people can become ongoing partners in the work of Bible translation. Monthly gifts provide steady support that allow translation teams to plan ahead, continue their work with confidence and respond quickly when new translation opportunities arise.

Being part of the WordGivers community also means that you’re able to stay connected to the impact of your generosity. When you join, you receive:

• Exclusive updates and reports showing how your monthly gifts are bringing hope to people around the world through translated Scripture
• Project-specific updates, including translation milestones and progress
• Prayer requests from communities and teams you help support

For many donors, monthly giving becomes a consistent way they’re participating in what God is doing globally, while staying informed and engaged along the way.

Project-Based Giving: Connecting Passion to Purpose

Sometimes generosity starts with a specific place or story that makes an impact on you. If God placed a particular region of the world or language community on your heart, project-based giving allows you to respond directly.

You can support specific Bible translation projects by region — Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and the Pacific — or explore featured projects through Wycliffe’s Gift Catalog, where specific needs and opportunities are highlighted.

Another option is giving to the Worldwide Projects Fund, which allows Wycliffe to direct support where it’s needed most. This flexibility helps translation teams press on without delays, especially when urgent needs arise or funding gaps would otherwise slow progress.

Each of these options fills a different need, but the goal is the same: helping ensure that Bible translation work can move forward with the resources teams need to continue.

Missionary Support: Empowering the People Behind the Work

Behind every translation effort are people who learned new languages, built trust among communities and walked closely with them over many years.

Missionaries serve alongside local churches and translation teams, supporting both the technical work of translation and the relational work of Scripture engagement. Their presence helps ensure that God’s Word is not just translated but also understood and used in communities.

But missionaries can’t do it alone; they rely on the faithful prayers and generosity of people like you to sustain their work so they can support communities in their journey to engage with God’s Word.

Partner with a Wycliffe missionary today! →

Church and Community-Based Giving: Generosity We Share

Generosity might be an individual choice, but it can also be an expression of faithfulness in community. Giving alongside others — in your church, a small group or friends — can make Bible translation feel deeply meaningful.

One simple way to practice generosity with your church is through hosting an Adopt-a-Verse event. This one-time giving event invites people to sponsor individual verses of Scripture for a Bible translation project. Each $35 gift helps translate one verse, making it an easy way for individuals, families and even children to participate. Together your church can help move an entire translation project forward — one verse at a time.

Learn more about Adopt-a-Verse. →

You can also start a giving circle with friends, your Bible study or even neighbors. Wycliffe giving circles are simply groups of people who decide to give together around a shared passion for God’s Word. Each person contributes what they can, and together you support a translation effort that would otherwise be difficult to fund alone.

What often makes giving circles so powerful is the shared experience — people praying together, celebrating translation progress and watching how God multiplies what each person brings.

Legacy and Planned Giving: Leaving a Faithful Impact

Some forms of generosity grow out of reflection as people contemplate what will last and how their faith can shape lives beyond the present moment.

Legacy giving and planned giving offer a way for you to support Bible translation for generations to come. Through wills, bequests or non-cash gifts such as stock or donor-advised funds, you can help ensure that people who have never had access to Scripture will one day have God’s Word in a language they understand.

Planned giving is a way to trust in God’s ongoing work and to pass on a legacy of faithfulness. The Wycliffe Foundation walks alongside donors in this process, offering estate-planning guidance and support so your generosity can make an eternal impact.

Living Generously in Everyday Life

All of these ways of giving — monthly support, project funding, missionary partnership and legacy planning — point to a deeper truth about generosity: It is not limited to a single decision or season of life. Generosity is a posture of your heart that is shaped over time.

Scripture describes generosity as more than an action; it’s something that forms us. Paul wrote that God enriches His people “… in every way so that you can always be generous” (2 Corinthians 9:11a, NLT). Paul also reminded us of Jesus’ words: “You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’” (Acts 20:35b, NLT).

Living generously means living open handedly — with our resources, our time and our attention.

A helpful framework is to ask how you’re stewarding your time, talents and treasures in everyday life.

You can ask yourself some simple questions that will guide the posture of your heart:

• “What does it look like for me to live open handedly in this season?”
• “Where might God be inviting me to give — not only financially but relationally and spiritually?”

Together We Can Finish the Task

For the first time in history, Bible translation is within reach for every language still waiting. Thousands of communities now have Scripture because people chose to give to, pray for and partner with the work faithfully over time. And yet, there are still hundreds of languages without a single verse of God’s Word.

This reality reminds us that generosity is not theoretical. God uses His people to move real work forward.

Your Part in God’s Global Mission

Bible translation advances because ordinary people choose to say “yes” to God’s invitation into what He’s already doing. Monthly partners help create stability, while gifts to projects can help remove delays. Supporting missionaries helps sustain people doing the work, while legacy gifts ensure Bible translation continues beyond your lifetime.

No single gift finishes the task, but together they can.

A Call to Generous Partnership

There is room for you in this work.

You may feel called to give regularly, respond to a specific need, commit to prayer or help others understand why Bible translation matters. Each of these roles plays a part in seeing God’s Word made available in every language.

You’re part of the generation that will see the gospel go out into the furthest corners of the earth, and we invite you to join the movement! Here are just a few ways to get involved:

• Pray: We believe prayer is foundational to the work of Bible translation and are incredibly grateful for the people who have committed to praying. Whether you want to receive weekly prayer requests and updates via text message or join our online community of like-minded believers to pray for timely needs, your prayers can help change the world.
• Give: God calls us as believers to steward our resources — including our time, talents, treasures and more! When you give to Bible translation, you’re making an eternal deposit that will impact lives now and in the future. Whether you want to give toward the greatest needs, to a specific translation project or to a missionary, your generosity is vital to ensuring people have the opportunity to encounter Jesus personally through Scripture.
• Advocate: When you’re passionate about something, you want to tell everyone about it! Advocacy looks different for each person — it might mean sharing Wycliffe social media posts, inviting your friends to learn about Bible translation, connecting your church leaders with resources and more.

No matter your age or stage of life, God is calling each of us to be part of His mission to make disciples of all nations. As you prayerfully consider your next right step, you can be sure that no matter which one you take, you’ll be contributing to a promised future when all people can worship God in their language!

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Bible say about generosity?

The Bible describes generosity as a reflection of God’s character and a response to His grace. Scripture teaches that giving flows from trust in God, gratitude and love for others (2 Corinthians 9:6-8; Proverbs 11:25). Jesus also reminds believers that giving is an act of discipleship, not obligation (Matthew 6:21).

Why support Bible translation specifically?

Bible translation helps people encounter God through Scripture in a language they clearly understand. When God’s Word is accessible, people’s faith becomes personal, churches are strengthened and communities are transformed. Bible translation also creates lasting impact; once Scripture exists in someone’s language, it continues to shape lives for generations.

Is Wycliffe’s financial reporting public?

Yes. Wycliffe is committed to transparency and accountability. Financial information, impact reporting and organizational details are publicly available. Wycliffe is accredited by the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA) and has earned Candid’s Platinum Seal of Transparency, reflecting a commitment to clear reporting and responsible stewardship.

How can I get involved beyond giving?

Generosity includes more than financial support. Many people engage by praying for translation teams and communities, sharing stories about Bible translation or advocating for Bible translation within their churches.

Imagine sitting in church one Sunday when the pastor asks you to pull out your Bible and open it to a specific passage. You go to do so, but that verse is in a language you don’t understand. Or worse yet, that verse is completely missing — the page is blank.

This is the case for many believers around the world. They either don’t have access to any Scripture in a language and format they clearly understand, or they don’t have the full counsel of God’s Word.

God’s Word is foundational for churches. Without it, evangelism, discipleship, church planting and more are hindered, as the community is left with an incomplete view of who God is and how He wants them to live in relationship with Him. That’s why Bible translation is a mission of the Church.

The mission started when Jesus gave His disciples this final command, often referred to as “the Great Commission”: “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19, NLT).

Teach kids about God’s mission for His people in “On Mission with Kate & Mack”!

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But how can you make mature disciples if people have no meaningful access to the Scriptures? How will they learn about Jesus and how to follow Him? For the Church to carry out the Great Commission effectively, Bible translation must be central to its efforts.

So what does this mean for us practically? We’re so glad you asked! Let’s take a look at how God’s global Church is changing the landscape of Bible translation.

United in Christ and Mission

For more than 80 years, Wycliffe and like-minded organizations have led efforts to advance Bible translation worldwide. Linguists, exegetes, biblical scholars and many others have worked together to bring God’s Word to thousands of communities and billions of people.

In recent years, another exciting shift has occurred; today local churches are asking for — and sometimes even starting — Bible translation themselves. And they don’t want to wait for the work to start; they want God’s Word as soon as possible. These churches are playing a significant role in Bible translation for their own communities!

As a result, the work is moving faster than ever, and more and more communities are expressing this desire. At Wycliffe, we want to continue saying “yes” to every one of them, working alongside these churches to see the work started, sustained and completed.

It’s exciting to witness God’s global Church united in mission and motivated by the same hope — that as people encounter Jesus personally through Scripture, their lives will be transformed for eternity.

Want to explore how your church can get involved in Bible translation? Whether it’s through praying, giving, advocating or serving, your church can make an eternal impact today!

Get Your Church Involved →

Partnering to Translate Scripture for the Jonam People of Uganda

Partnership that makes a global impact often begins with faithful leadership and a willingness to say yes. For Revs. Jim and Jennifer Cowart — pastors of Harvest Church in Georgia and leaders within the Global Methodist Church — that yes grew out of years of ministry alongside pastors in Uganda.

Through ongoing discipleship and pastor training just north of Entebbe, they saw firsthand the deep spiritual hunger in local communities — but also the critical reality that many Christians were still waiting for the Word of God in their language. One such community was the Jonam.

“For so long, we have never had any Bible in our own language of Jonam,” shared Rev. Alex Jotim, who serves as the chairman for the Jonam Translation Review Committee.

Instead, Jonam Christians have had to use a Bible in another language for sermons and personal devotions. As pastors struggle to read these Scriptures to their people, it hinders their teaching and the church’s understanding.

When the Cowarts learned about the opportunity to support Bible translation among the Jonam people, they invited their congregants to participate, initially through hosting an Adopt-a-Verse giving event and then through a deeper partnership with the Jonam translation project.

Not only did the partnership impact the Jonam people, but it also deeply impacted the people at Harvest Church. Seeing this, the Cowarts invited friends and fellow Global Methodist church leaders, Revs. David and Jennifer Thompson and Revs. Jimmy and Debbie Towson to explore how their churches might get involved. The three couples traveled to Uganda to meet face-to-face with the Jonam people.

“[During church services,] all the rest of the worship was in Jonam,” David of Dublin First Methodist Church of Georgia, observed. “They were singing, they were speaking and sharing in Jonam. But when they came to read the Word of God, they had to read it in a foreign language.”

Praise God, that reality was already beginning to shift! At the time of the visit, the Jonam community had completed the Gospel of Luke and was moving forward with translating other books, laying the groundwork for broader access and future tools such as the “JESUS” film.

Rev. Joseph Otim, a Jonam pastor and translator working to bring God’s Word to His people, shared, “We are so excited because [Scripture in] our own language of Jonam is soon coming out, because we are now translating it into our own language, where our people can understand when they read!” The local church is taking ownership and initiative of Bible translation for their community, and it’s transformational. “People treasure it because they know it is the real Word of God in their own language.”

Each couple returned home to their congregations convinced of the same truth: Partnering in Bible translation is one of the most strategic and eternal investments a church can make. It is a tangible way for U.S. congregations to participate in God’s global mission, strengthening the Church worldwide while engaging believers at home in something far bigger than themselves. It has also helped people avoid taking Scripture for granted. As Jimmy of Park Avenue Church shared, “I don’t know that we can truly understand the impact of what it means to literally have God’s Word in our own language.”

For all three churches, Scripture access has become more than a global cause; it is a shared mission that strengthens faith, generosity and vision.

Thinking about the Jonam church now having Scripture in their own language, Jennifer knows they’re engaged in something meaningful and eternal. “Because we know there’s a supernatural work that happens when you read and ingest God’s Word, it can happen for [them] now,” she said. “You might not be able to do anything that will multiply more than the Word of God in the hands of people who have never had it before.”

Jim agrees: “When you see the Scriptures in your language, it’s an affirmation — Jesus loves me! He came for my people, He came for me.”

Advancing God’s Mission Through Bible Translation Together

Today, the invitation remains. Churches across the U.S. have an opportunity to link arms with projects like the Jonam, ensuring that God’s Word continues to advance, lives are transformed and entire communities are reached. When churches invest together in Bible translation, they are not simply funding a project; they are helping write a story of faith, unity and eternal impact that spans generations!

It takes all parts of the body of Christ working together to see Scripture made available for all people. And for each one of us, that might look different! Here are a few key ways that churches can participate in Bible translation together:

• Host an Adopt-a-Verse Event: Adopt-a-Verse is a one-time giving event that invites people in your church to sponsor individual Bible verses to help fund a Scripture translation project. Every $35 gift helps translate one verse of Scripture and brings a community closer to having God’s Word. Explore Adopt-a-Verse →
• Bread of Life: The Bread of Life Church Challenge helps churches take a bold step into Bible translation project giving. The first year your church gives to a specific Bible translation project, your gifts can be matched, dollar-for-dollar, from $3,500 up to $50,000. Double Your Impact →
• Pray for the Work: Your church can make a difference through prayer, interceding on behalf of communities all around the world as they meet Jesus — often for the first time! — through Scripture in a language and format they clearly understand. Make a Difference Through Prayer →

Your church can link arms with other churches around the world to see the living and active Word of God go out into every community. All it takes is one step, one yes, one opportunity at a time. Let’s be people committed to obeying Jesus’ final command to make disciples of all nations!

Each language uniquely reflects the creativity of God, and each represents people He loves. Everyone deserves the chance to encounter Jesus personally in a language that resonates with them: a language they think in, dream in and pray in. Come with us on a journey around the world to witness how Scripture is shaping people’s faith, strengthening churches and changing communities.

This is the Bible Translation Experience — an interactive, online storytelling platform designed to help you see the “why” behind Bible translation and witness the impact for yourself.

One of the topics that you’ll get to engage with frequently in the Bible Translation Experience is the importance of sign language translation. Keep reading for a glimpse at some of the people you’ll meet and stories you’ll encounter!

Learn About the Final Frontier of Bible Translation

When many people think of the phrase “Bible translation,” they probably imagine words typed onto a computer screen or written in a notebook. But there’s a vast and often overlooked frontier in the world of Bible access: sign languages. And the need is far greater than most people realize.

Around the globe, there are as many as 70 million Deaf people, yet only 2% have ever been introduced to the gospel. That means millions of people still do not have access to Scripture in their very own sign language.

Sign languages are not universal, nor are they simply “visual versions” of spoken languages. Sign languages and written languages don’t share the same rules for grammar, structure or sequence. There are nearly 400 known sign languages in use around the world today. But did you know that currently only American Sign Language (ASL) has a complete Bible?

This is why the work of sign language translation matters so much — and why we want you to be able to explore all about it virtually through the Bible Translation Experience.

Why Sign Languages Need Their Own Bible Translations

One of the most common questions about sign language Bible translation that people ask is: “Why can’t Deaf communities simply read a written Bible?” Written words alone do not convey the full meaning and nuance that sign language does. A person using sign language communicates with every part of their body, including hands, facial expressions, posture and body movement.

So a visual language needs a visual Bible. For Deaf individuals, a visual Bible removes the barrier of having to interpret a second language (written text) that’s also in a different format than their preferred language (sign language).

When Scripture is translated into sign language, Deaf people have direct access to God’s Word in both a language (sign language) and format (video) that resonate with their hearts. Many parts of the Bible, like parables and miracles, are naturally visual stories.

Bible translation is also necessary for Deaf communities because sign languages arrange the details of a story or narrative in a different order than spoken or written languages. Because they’re so visual, sign languages set the scene before telling a story.

A great example of this is Jesus feeding the 5,000 from Mark 6:30-44. The Scripture doesn’t tell us how many people were in the crowd until the end. But a depiction of this story in sign language would set the scene by describing the crowd first.

These differences matter, and they shape how Deaf communities receive and understand Scripture.

Translating Bible stories into sign language is no easy feat. But the rewards are eternally valuable! As Pastraporn Sarakong, a Deaf translation leader in Thailand, shared, “My goal for the Scripture translation is to spread the Good News so that Deaf people don’t have to rely on the written word but can have it in their heart language.”

When Deaf people finally see God’s Word expressed in a language and format they use every day, something transformative happens: Scripture becomes personal.

Why the Bible Translation Experience Matters

One of the most meaningful ways to learn about global missions — whether as part of a family, church or small group — is by discovering how the Bible reaches people in communities and through languages that differ from our own.

This is where the Bible Translation Experience can be a powerful tool, educating and inspiring the people in your life!

The platform is designed as an immersive, story-rich way for groups to journey together into real-life accounts of faith and transformation. Not only does it help people clearly understand why Bible translation matters, but it also opens the door for deeper conversations.

Stories about sign language Bible translation and Deaf communities in the Bible Translation Experience can help:

• Kids and families understand the beauty of all languages. Parents can remind kids that God loves everyone around the world, no matter where they live or what language they use. And families can have deeper discussions about how to share God’s love with others.
• Small groups become inspired by the work that God is doing around the world. Individuals can advocate for Bible translation, sharing their excitement with family, friends, social media networks or their church. A small group can even be motivated to give together in community to a Bible translation project!
• Churches explore opportunities to be part of God’s global mission through Bible translation — whether that’s praying for Deaf communities, giving toward sign language translation projects or engaging more deeply with Bible translation globally.

These conversations and experiences in community with others plant seeds that God can use to transform lives through His Word.

A Chance to Step Into the Story Together

Having a sign language Bible creates a level playing field for everyone, where it’s possible for all hearts to fully receive God’s Word in a language they clearly understand. For God to capture His people’s hearts, Scripture must be presented to the Deaf naturally, clearly and visually — and in the language that they connect with. This is why Bible translation matters.

So whether you’re exploring the Bible Translation Experience with your kids, discussing missions in your small group or simply curious about God’s work around the world, this desktop platform offers a beautiful way to see firsthand how Scripture is changing lives — including among the world’s Deaf communities.

Don’t just read about the impact Bible translation has on people’s lives: Experience the impact for yourself, talk about it and celebrate it in community with the people around you!

Encounter Even More Stories of Hope

These stories are only the beginning. Through the Bible Translation Experience, you’ll meet people, families, pastors, translators and entire communities encountering the joy of God’s Word in a language that they clearly understand.

Come see what God is doing, and discover the joy of Scripture in every language!

Today there are nearly 7,400 spoken or signed languages used by billions of people. Each language represents a community — individuals with dignity, worth and immeasurable value. And the beautiful truth is that God is pursuing each one of them.

This is why Bible translation matters.

A Global Story of Love and Pursuit

Through the Bible Translation Experience, you’re invited into a powerful journey — a chance to see how God is moving so that all people can know Him through Scripture in the language they think in, dream in and pray in.

With immersive storytelling, personal testimonies and firsthand accounts, you can virtually travel the world and witness how God is transforming lives and strengthening His Church through Scripture. As you navigate the Bible Translation Experience, you’ll meet people and communities touched by Scripture in profound ways.

Stories: The Joy of Encountering God’s Word and Sharing the Good News

Here are just a few stories you’ll encounter along the way in the Bible Translation Experience … stories of joy, perseverance and hope as God’s Word takes root in people’s hearts around the world.

Peru: Rediscovering Truth Through Scripture

The Sihuas Quechua people in Peru were first introduced to Christianity over 500 years ago. Since then, aspects of traditional religion have been mixed into Christian teachings. But today, people are opening their eyes to the truth as they encounter Sihuas Quechua Scripture! Translation work is in progress for various New Testament books, Scripture-based literacy materials, a Genesis storybook and Bible videos for kids.

People’s lives are renewed and entire communities are being transformed by the truth of God’s Word.

Timor-Leste: A Movement of Local Ownership

Haksolok means “joy” in Tetun Dili, a primary language spoken in Timor-Leste, a nation in Southeast Asia occupying half the island of Timor. The hope is that, as a result of a newly launched Bible translation project called Haksolok, 23 people groups in Timor-Leste will soon experience the joy of the Lord through the Word of God in the languages that serve them best! More than 100 people from 80 different local churches have already volunteered to be a part of the Haksolok project, mobilizing their communities for translation and Scripture engagement.

This is the global Church in action — united, collaborative and filled with the joy of the Lord.

Pacific: The Largest Sign Language Initiative in History

The Veditz Cluster Regional Plan in the Pacific is the single largest Bible translation initiative ever undertaken among Deaf communities! It seeks to engage and mobilize Deaf churches and communities that sign 49 different languages that are used by more than 886,000 Deaf people in 46 countries. This bold strategy is possible because all 49 languages are influenced by American Sign Language! It will address almost 20% of the remaining sign language translation needs.

The gospel is for every language community — spoken and signed — and God is moving in powerful ways to bring His Word to all people around the world.

Encounter Even More Stories of Hope

These stories are only a sample of how Scripture is transforming individuals, families, communities and entire countries! Through the Bible Translation Experience, you can explore more stories and videos of what God is doing all across the globe. Experience the power of God’s Word, and discover the joy that results when people get Scripture in their language. Step into this immersive computer experience today!

Picture this: You’re watching a race at an exciting speedway track. A racecar rounds the final curve and swings into the pit. The crew quickly leaps into action — they replace the tires, check the engine, examine issues and refuel the gas tank. The driver then pulls back onto the track to finish the race. That pit crew helps a driver continue their momentum so they can reach the finish line without issues or delays.

Just like a car needs fuel to reach its destination, Bible translation teams also need fuel and momentum in order to continue their work. Without prayer and resources, translation work often stalls or sometimes stops entirely.

God uses the prayers, gifts and advocacy of His people to keep the Bible translation mission in motion. This spiritual fuel allows more communities around the world to access His Word in a way that touches their hearts and transforms their lives for eternity.

This is why monthly giving matters: God uses your support to keep the work steady and strong. Monthly gifts add fuel where it’s needed most; those consistent gifts keep Bible translation from stalling.

At Wycliffe Bible Translators, we call our regular monthly donors “WordGivers” and they play a crucial role in the Bible translation movement. So let’s take a look at what monthly support makes possible for Bible translation funding today — and what God can use your giving to do in the future.

Keep reading to learn more about:

• The Power of Consistent Support in Bible Translation
• What Giving Makes Possible Around the World
• The Hidden Engine That Keeps Bible Translation Moving
• What Motivates a Giver
• Regular Giving as a Spiritual Discipline
• The Road Ahead: What Monthly Giving Makes Possible in 2026
• You Help Fuel the Mission

The Power of Consistent Support in Bible Translation

Did you know that it costs about $35 to translate a single verse of Scripture? Bible translation makes it possible for more people to read, see or hear God’s Word in their own language. But the process isn’t quick or simple; it often takes years.

Every verse that’s translated represents the culmination of hard work from translators, community members, prayer partners, donors — and so many others!

Around the world today, there are still communities waiting for a single verse of Scripture in their language. And some communities only have portions of the Bible. At Wycliffe, we believe that all people deserve to have the full counsel of God’s Word — every single verse — in their language!

From translation teams to linguists, pastors, community members, literacy specialists to audio recording experts and more, each person who comes alongside a Bible translation project brings a unique skill set so that every translation communicates God’s Word clearly.

Rev. Father Christopher Geh Kum expressed this beautifully at the Isu New Testament dedication in Cameroon:

“... I used to hear and read about saints in Bible times who were inspired to write the Scriptures. Today I am a living witness of God still using common men to write His Word in the language that will bring transformation. … What a blessing for me. Everyone now has access to the Word in the language they understand. … I will make sure everyone has and uses a copy of the Isu New Testament, and I will bring in other clergies from Isu who couldn’t make it to the dedication to distribute [the New Testament] to their members. Our partners have done their part; now it is left to us to use this precious gift.”

Translation teams are working faithfully, but hundreds of communities around the world still need long-term support to help complete their translation work. Through your monthly giving, you get the opportunity to step into what God is already doing!

God uses your consistent giving to fill funding gaps, equip Bible translators with the resources they need each month and support ongoing missions work so teams don’t have to pause when complications arise.

Ensuring that God’s Word reaches every person requires reliable financial partners who step in and say, “We’ll help keep the tank full so the journey never stops.”

What Giving Makes Possible Around the World

God is using the faithful gifts of people just like you to drive His mission forward so that someday every man, woman and child will know Him in their own language. It might be difficult to see the tangible impact that your gift is making, but know that God is using it for His glory and the good of His people everywhere!

Here are some practical ways your gifts refuel the mission of Bible translation:

• You encourage and sustain real people doing translation work. Consistent giving helps support Bible translators so they can keep drafting Scripture without worrying about funds running out.
• You help fund Bible translation projects long term. Ongoing support bridges the financial gaps between translation milestones and keeps the work moving at a steady pace. For example, sometimes when a team finishes translating the New Testament and wants to move on to translating the Old Testament, your consistent giving helps them do that!
• Your support can provide tools, training and technology. From laptops to workshops to language software, your support equips translation teams with things they practically need to do their work.
• You help share Scripture in every language. People are transformed when they experience God’s Word for themselves; individuals, families and entire communities can change. And when you step into God’s story as a WordGiver at Wycliffe, you’re part of each of those incredible stories!

This is why monthly giving matters now more than ever: God is opening doors of opportunity for His Word to reach communities, and He uses your support to help ensure that teams are able to seize those opportunities.

The Hidden Engine That Keeps Bible Translation Moving

Life is unpredictable and uncertain — and Bible translation teams working around the world today know this to be true. Especially as projects near significant milestones, many teams face spiritual hurdles or opposition to completion. Sometimes that opposition comes in the form of unexpected health issues, technical glitches, power or internet outages, persecution or struggles that impact an entire region like instability, famine or inclement weather.

And even though you might never get the chance to meet the teams you’re supporting in person, your prayers and support can provide them much-needed spiritual encouragement during difficult times.

Reliable financial support means that:

• Teams can continue to do their work without pausing.
• Consultants can travel to remote locations for checking sessions.
• Literacy teams can prepare materials that help communities use Scripture well.
• Teams can produce audio or video Scripture.

When you give every month, you’re joining a group of like-minded individuals who are passionate about making sure that Scripture is available for everyone. You’re part of the team that steps in quickly to help refuel the tank, partnering with God as He moves His mission forward!

What Motivates a Giver

In our digital world, we can pay for coffee, schedule automatic bill payments and subscribe to everything from streaming services to gym memberships with just a simple tap on our phones. We budget for expenses like groceries and travel. But what if we budgeted for Kingdom-focused missions work with the same intentionality?

After all, Jesus reminded us that, “wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be” (Matthew 6:21, NLT). Consistent giving is one way to align your heart with the things God cares about and invest in the places where He is already moving.

Think about the way that the Bible has impacted your own life, and the way God has used the truth of His Word to shape your heart and mind. The Bible is more than just words on a page; it’s the living Word of God that has the power to capture hearts and transform lives forever. When you give toward Bible translation, you’re part of the bigger story God is writing all around the world: a story culminating in our promised future in Revelation 7:9 when people from every nation and language will worship Him.

And faithful stewardship isn’t about the amount you give: It’s about trusting that God will use whatever He’s entrusted to us to further His Kingdom. Consistent giving keeps your heart connected to God’s global mission, and He uses your gifts to transform communities around the world.

Behind every monthly gift is a story of someone stepping out in faith, trusting in God’s provision. Every prayer and gift represents someone who said, “I want to invest in what God is doing for eternity.”

Being part of God’s global mission through Bible translation fuels Wycliffe donor Shonn Mitchell: “During my prayer time [years ago], I expressed to God that I wanted to be a giver in His Kingdom,” he explained. “And I had no idea it would explode into what it … [is] today.”

Back then, Shonn didn’t realize millions of people around the world are still waiting for Scripture in a language they understand. “... I thought everyone had a Bible,” he admitted, “and little did I know that was definitely not the case.”

Knowing that so many people around the world still don’t have the gospel in their language propelled Shonn in his desire to give to Bible translation work.

Today he supports 55 translation projects and 50 missionaries worldwide. He invests his resources with the same intentionality as an investor building a diversified portfolio — but Shonn’s aim is eternal.

Supporting Bible translation isn’t a side passion to Shonn; it’s his life’s purpose. “I will be doing this until I take my last breath on the planet,” he affirmed.

Shonn knows that the gospel has the power to change people’s hearts and lives forever. He urges people to get involved in what God is doing through Bible translation now. “Don’t hesitate,” he said. “Do it today because tomorrow is not promised.”

Scripture reminds us that we should store up heavenly treasures instead of earthly ones (Matthew 6:19-21). Shonn challenged those who haven’t yet invested in Kingdom work to do just that:

Just like Shonn, you can be part of what God is doing around the world by partnering with Bible translation. Shonn’s story reflects what motivates so many WordGivers: joy in seeing God’s Word change lives.

Regular Giving as a Spiritual Discipline

Have you ever thought about giving as part of your spiritual rhythm?

Many of us know that praying and studying Scripture regularly is part of a spiritual rhythm that connects us deeper to God and His mission. The more we incorporate both into our lives, the more we tune ourselves to God’s heart and voice. Monthly giving provides an intentional rhythm too: It helps you weave generosity into your lifestyle instead of treating it like an afterthought. It aligns you with the mission God is fulfilling through His people around the world.

Practicing intentional generosity mirrors the behavior of the early Church in Acts 2:44-45, where Christians shared their resources freely so that others could experience God’s goodness: “And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need” (NLT).

Throughout the Bible, God calls us to give generously and with joy, trusting that He will provide for our needs and multiply what we offer Him.

Regular giving also helps you take small, faithful steps that add up over time. You don’t need to give a large amount for God to use it to make a large impact. You just need to give faithfully and trust God.

The Road Ahead: What Monthly Giving Makes Possible in 2026

Today God is opening doors for translation work like never before. In 2026, hundreds of projects will continue moving forward. New teams will begin work in languages still waiting for Scripture. Communities that have received New Testaments will press on toward translating the full Bible.

That means that today, translation teams are planning ahead for necessary events like traveling to do checking sessions, funding the printing of Bibles and training new team members.

In this upcoming year, God can use your partnership to help people translate the very first verses of His Word for communities. Individuals, families and entire communities are longing for the hope and truth that comes from Scripture; they’re desperate to know God and His love in their own language.

Imagine: God could use your monthly gift to help someone discover, for the very first time, that He loves them and sent His Son, Jesus, to die for their sins. God wants everyone to know Him in their own language — and it’s an honor that He invites us to be part of this life-transforming mission!

The road ahead might seem long, but God is faithful.

You Help Fuel the Mission

The Apostle Paul used the imagery of the human body to remind each of us that we have skills, talents and passions we can contribute to God’s Kingdom:

Think back to that pit crew earlier: Each person on that team had a distinct role to play, and they worked in harmony and unity with the other members to accomplish their goal. Similarly, Bible translation work needs passionate prayer partners, advocates, translators and donors who work together to refuel the mission so people can encounter God through His Word.

Being part of the Bible translation movement means that God uses your unique gifts and resources to make sure people everywhere are able to read, see or hear Scripture in a language and format they clearly understand.

Maybe you’ve prayed for a Bible translation project before. Maybe you gave a one-time gift last year. Maybe you reshared an inspirational story or video on your social media. Now is your moment to take the next step; now is your opportunity to become part of a community of people who are passionate about Scripture and sharing His Word with others.

What does refueling the mission look like for you?

Are you someone who loves goals? Perhaps you’re fueled by the desire to check things off your list, to scale great heights and to accomplish what others cannot. You have a 10-step plan and know every move you need to make to ensure success. Nothing will hold you back.

Or maybe creating goals isn’t that important to you: You feel like it sets you up for failure before you’ve even begun. You’d rather focus on your hopes and dreams, with good intentions and ideas for how you’ll achieve them without feeling the need to create detailed plans for today, tomorrow or a particular season.

Whether you love goals or dislike them, God has wired us to live on purpose, with purpose and for a purpose. Ultimately, that looks like serving within His Kingdom to advance the Great Commission, as described in Matthew 28:19: “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit” (NLT).

Along the way, though, He leads and directs our steps to align with His perfect plan for all people. We just need to have eyes to see, ears to hear and hearts to understand how we — both individually and collectively — participate in seeing His will accomplished on earth.

Vision 2025: A God-Sized Dream

Back in 1999, Wycliffe and SIL Global, one of our strategic partners, evaluated the pace of Bible translation. While the critical work was taking place at an ever-expanding global scale, it took decades for a New Testament translation to be completed, let alone a full Bible. We were doing the task well but not fast enough, and too many communities were waiting too long for God’s Word.

That’s when we established a God-sized vision that felt way bigger than any of us — to see a Bible translation in progress for every language still needing one by the year 2025. We called it Vision 2025. At that time, we believed that it would require translation to start in 3,000 languages over the following 25 years. The pace of Bible translation in 1999 meant that in order to accomplish this, instead of beginning a new translation every two weeks, two translations would need to begin every week.

This felt huge and even overwhelming for many people. (And today we know that the number of languages was actually closer to 4,500-5,000  —so we’ve had to adjust the goal accordingly!) Up until that point in 1999, the most new language engagements in a year had been 25 languages. How could we increase that number so significantly?

The vision was big, but we knew God was bigger. We set a bold goal in faith and confidence that it could only be achieved through God’s hand at work in and through His Church.

That brings us to today as we near the end of the 2025 calendar year. This God-sized vision has been a faith journey, during which we have continuously seen God show up and move as only He can!

Now approximately 550 Vision 2025 languages need Bible translation to start for the first time. Of these, approximately 400 languages have plans that are ready for launch — but we need the additional funding to say “yes” to starting these new languages without risking our commitments to nearly 3,000 languages we’re actively partnering with today.

The countdown to Vision 2025 is on! See how God has moved so far and how we’re prayerfully anticipating He will move in the days to come. →

Saying “Yes” To Those Still Waiting

Imagine Bible translation as a grand stage production.

Behind the curtain, approximately 550 language communities are waiting for their cue, eager to step onto the stage and take their place in God’s story. On the stage, nearly 3,000 languages are already performing. These are the communities where translation work is actively underway and supported.

As each language completes its part — the moment when Scripture becomes available for the first time — they step off the stage, making room for others still waiting in the wings.

Wycliffe wants to say “yes” to every performer ready to join in. But we also want to ensure that no one leaves the stage before their part is complete.

To welcome every new language community — every new performer — the stage itself must grow.

You can help expand the stage. You can pray for those translating and those waiting to begin the work. You can give to sustain the work already on stage and provide additional resources to invite new languages to step into the light. And you can advocate by telling others the story of what God is doing so more people can join in.

Together we can make room for every language community to take the stage in God’s story so that all people can encounter Him through Scripture they clearly understand.

The Hardest of the Hard

Four areas include the greatest remaining needs for Bible translation to start: East Asia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and the global Deaf. Just two years ago, these regions represented more than 800 languages without Scripture. Today, that number has dropped by more than half, with fewer than 400 remaining!

Papua New Guinea

Home to more than 840 languages, Papua New Guinea has always stood out as one of the most linguistically diverse — and most challenging — places for Bible translation. But now the nation is on the verge of a historic milestone: Only 111 languages still need Scripture to begin.

This remarkable progress is the result of decades of prayer and the faithful obedience of local churches and determined translation partners who said, “We want God’s Word in our own language — and we’re willing to help make it happen.”

East Asia

East Asia remains one of the toughest regions for translation; yet God is clearly at work. Local pastors and church leaders are receiving training — sometimes across borders and often online — to guide new translation efforts.

Technology, including emerging AI, is opening new doors for collaboration and learning. Though the path ahead isn’t always clear, we’re walking through every door God opens, trusting Him to show us the way forward.

Pray that translation will soon begin for every remaining language in this region.

Indonesia

Just a year ago, Indonesia had 159 languages waiting for translation to start. Now that number is down to 53. Of these languages, 26 are considered the most challenging; yet work has already begun for several of them. Local churches, field partners and other organizations are uniting to see every community receive God’s Word. Despite political sensitivities and religious complexities, people’s hearts are opening and momentum is building.

Global Deaf

Around the world, roughly 400 sign languages are used every day. But for generations, most Deaf people had no Scripture in a language they could understand. That’s changing. Today only 69 sign languages are still waiting for Bible translation to begin. And the movement isn’t stopping there — the goal is for every Deaf person to have access to the full counsel of God’s Word in their unique sign language.

Sign language is the final push for Bible translation. See why a visual language needs a visual Bible.

Beyond Vision 2025: The Next Chapter

2025 might be nearly over, but God’s not done yet. Wycliffe and our partners will continue to work toward seeing all Scripture made available for all people, knowing that there is a promised future when people from every language will worship before the throne. That glorious picture, as described in Revelation 7:9, is a driving force in who we are and why we do what we do. Because at the end of the day, we know that only two things last forever: God’s Word and people.

So what does this mean for the future? We’re so glad you asked!

Wycliffe will continue to pursue our vision that people from every language will understand the Bible and be transformed. We’ll hold true to our mission of serving with the global body of Christ to advance Bible translation so people can encounter God through His Word. And we’ll pursue a day when all people are able to worship God in a language and format that captures their hearts and transforms their lives for eternity.

The Bible changes everything when it’s in languages and formats people clearly understand. Explore stories of transformation on the Bible Translation Experience, an interactive storytelling website for desktop!

What if you could use your time to make a meaningful impact on Bible translation?

At Wycliffe we believe we all have a role to play in God’s global mission. You could serve from your home and contribute to this Kingdom work! By volunteering your time, expertise and experience, you join what God is doing among communities and churches worldwide.

Ken Figueroa serves as the senior director of mobilization. He said, “Every person’s contribution helps us achieve our vision for people from every language to understand the Bible and be transformed.” He continued:

Three current volunteers shared about their journey to Wycliffe, what it’s like to serve and how volunteering makes a difference!

Meet Lisa

Lisa Delaney has operated her own graphic design company in Pennsylvania for 30 years. But in 2023 she wanted to find a way to serve God in a new way as she continued to lead her company. She said, “I wanted to do something where I could connect people to God’s Word. I didn’t know what that [could look] like.”

Lisa turned to social media, where she came across a post advertising an opportunity to serve short term and support a specific project with Wycliffe. She said, “I thought, maybe that’s a way that I could … get into Wycliffe, see what it was all about [and] see if it was a good fit.”

She began her role, got involved with the team and contributed to projects in meaningful ways. She shared:

So What’s Next?

When the short-term project concluded, Lisa wanted to keep serving in Bible translation part time — she didn’t want to leave! Through a series of conversations with her manager and others, she discovered a way to use her graphic design and social media skills to impact communities in Central and South America while working from her home. She said, “I was really excited about the potential of different projects. … It's a lot of fun; I look forward to the volunteer work.”

As part of her role, Lisa works on social media, recruiting and web projects. She’s seen engagement on platforms grow as more people learn about Bible translation in Central and South America! She said, “I’m learning Spanish. And I just love it. … I’m on [a team] with people from Ecuador and from Brazil and from Peru. I just love the global aspect of being on the … team.”

Sometimes entering a new space can feel uncertain or scary. As Lisa contributes to teams across countries, she finds herself exercising flexibility and patience. She emphasized the importance of making yourself available to God. She said, “You have to sign up and start someplace. … I’m always asking the Lord: ‘Help me understand where you want me to be, how I can serve you best.’” Lisa’s go-to verse is found in Proverbs:

Meet Drew

In 2018, after more than 25 years of working as an attorney in private practice in Minnesota, Drew and his wife felt a new season of life was beginning. Their children had graduated from high school, and God was leading them to something new.

It wasn’t long before they learned about Wycliffe’s commitment to serve with the global body of Christ to advance Bible translation so people can encounter God through His Word. Drew realized he could use his skills and experience to contribute to Bible translation, and he quickly got connected to a coach who shared about opportunities to serve.

Finding a Fit

During his discernment journey, Drew met a Wycliffe missionary who served as a field coordinator. He said, “I thought, ‘That sounds really neat’ because I had been doing something very similar during the previous 10 years. I had been coordinating a number of water projects that our Rotary Club had sponsored in the Dominican Republic.”

By the end of October 2019, Drew and his wife moved to Orlando, Florida, where he began serving on Wycliffe’s legal team. Drew also began serving as a field coordinator! He thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated the opportunity to work directly with translation teams and see the impact of Bible translation. He said, “If your heart is willing, if you’re willing to serve God, He’ll find a place for you.”

Five years later, Drew followed God’s lead to a new role as general counsel at his alma mater. Though he was excited about this new opportunity, he was especially happy to learn that he would be able to continue serving as a field coordinator in a volunteer capacity. Drew said, “I thought I was going to have to give that up, which I didn’t want to do.” He was so thankful to be able to stay connected to Bible translation as a volunteer.

The Journey Continues

Now Drew continues to serve as a part-time field coordinator remotely from Illinois. He manages projects, travels, sustains relationships with partners and colleagues, and works with 22 language groups in Asia. Drew said, “Serving as a field coordinator is an opportunity to use the gifts I have to make a difference for the Kingdom. I see the impact directly. I’m talking to friends and partners in [Europe and Asia] on a regular basis, and I’m hearing the impact stories.” He concluded:

Meet Amy

In 2022, Amy felt that something was missing from her life: “I felt like I was just going to work and coming home, and I was really seeking something more meaningful,” she said. “I didn’t feel like I was doing what I was supposed to be doing in relation to the Kingdom.”

Amy prayed, and God reminded her of a Wycliffe missionary she had met years before. Amy was immediately excited about the thought of serving in Bible translation, so she met with a coach and attended events to learn more.

She considered pursuing a degree in linguistics, but she didn’t feel God leading her to go back to school for more education. So she waited on God to provide clarity about how He might be inviting her to join His mission. Amy said:

Making an Eternal Impact

Amy began as a volunteer in 2023 and now serves on the Learning and Development team as a project coordinator from her home in Kansas. Amy said, “The work is just very enjoyable to me. It meets my interests, it meets my passion, [and] it meets my skills and abilities. … It’s something to look forward to [every day].”

Amy appreciates the emphasis Wycliffe places on spiritual development — for both individuals and teams. She noted, “It’s unique to be able to be in an organization that’s [faith]-based, where part of your work is to have those times of reflection on the Scriptures and connection with others.” Accurate, clear and natural translation of the Bible in accessible formats leads people into a life-changing relationship with God. Amy concluded:

Join the Movement

We’re pursuing a day when all nations can worship God in the languages and formats that capture their hearts and transform their lives. When you serve with Wycliffe, you’ll find purpose and be part of a global faith community.

As Scripture reminds us: “All of you together are Christ’s body, and each of you is a part of it” (1 Corinthians 12:27, NLT).

Think of the last time you experienced true joy. For some, it comes while serving at a Vacation Bible School (VBS) and watching kids’ eyes light up as they learn about God’s Word. For others, it’s a church community rallying together, a family opening their home, or business owners using their resources to further God’s mission. The feeling we experience in these moments is deeper than mere happiness. Happiness is dependent on our circumstances: a thoughtful gift, a walk on the beach, a good conversation with a friend. Joy, however, is rooted in God Himself. It’s a gift He gives to us when we trust Him and live in obedience to His call.

One of the clearest ways we receive joy is through partnering generously with God in seeing His Kingdom fulfilled here on earth as it is in heaven. And generosity isn’t limited to finances; it’s found in how we share our time, talents, hospitality and resources to bless others and advance God’s Kingdom.

Across the Bible translation movement, we see this joy multiplied again and again as people bring what they have — big or small — to be part of God’s work. Join us as we explore stories from around the world of how believers are living generously and discovering radical joy in the process.

The Power of Giving Circles: Friends Fueling Bible Translation

What if generosity wasn’t something practiced alone but shared with friends? That’s the vision behind a giving circle: believers joining together around a shared passion for God’s Word and giving collectively. What might feel like a small gift on its own is multiplied when combined with others, turning generosity into a shared joy that deepens relationships and strengthens faith.

For one group of friends, that journey began with a simple dinner invitation. They learned that millions around the world still wait for Scripture in a language they can clearly understand. Overwhelmed by the need but inspired by the possibilities, they decided to give together. Soon, their collective gifts began fueling Bible translation projects, including one in Nigeria, where the project team celebrated the completion of the New Testament in four different languages! The circle of friends accomplished together what they couldn’t accomplish alone.

See the power of giving in community and how this giving circle made a lasting impact. →

The impact wasn’t just financial. Their friendships deepened as they encouraged each other in their faith, and their example sparked curiosity in others. As Sami explained, “We have a vibrant community of believers who love God and love each other … When people see that, they want to be part of it.” What started among a circle of friends became a ripple effect of generosity, drawing others into the mission of Bible translation.

Today, this giving circle has expanded its vision, helping support Bible translation for Deaf communities across the Americas. Along the way, they’ve discovered that giving circles are about far more than money — they’re about multiplying impact, strengthening friendships, sharing joy and creating a lasting legacy rooted in God’s Word.

Sushi for Scripture: How a Restaurant Fuels Bible Translation

For years, Rayza and Laura wondered if God was calling them to full-time missions. But God wasn’t opening doors to traditional ministry. Instead, He kept bringing them the vision and desire to open a restaurant.

From the beginning, they knew their restaurant needed to be more than a place to eat, and they wondered how they could use it to glorify God. Then the couple learned about Wycliffe and Bible translation.

That’s when they committed to give a percentage of all sales to support translation work. Rayza is from Indonesia, and part of his journey to faith was when he received a Bible in his own language. It seemed like a natural fit for the couple to give toward a translation project that was happening there, so they decided to partner with the Kola Bible translation team.

Today every roll of sushi from their restaurant helps contribute to Bible translation for the Kola people in Indonesia!

“We really believe that God’s Word can change people’s lives,” Laura shared. “There are so many areas in Indonesia that don’t have the Bible. That’s just a really important thing that we can help fund.”

Kids Leading the Way in Bible Translation

In a small church in West Virginia, kids wrapping up their VBS set out with a bold goal: raise $1,000 to support a Scripture translation project for the Deaf in Tanzania. Their pastor sweetened the challenge with a promise: If they hit the goal, he’d shave off his beloved beard.

To the delight of everyone, the children not only met the target but also got to watch the pastor’s daughter trim away his beard on stage in front of the whole congregation. More than just a fun moment, it was a celebration of how deeply these kids cared about helping people experience the love of Jesus.

At Chapel Pointe in Hudsonville, Michigan, another group of VBS kids rallied behind Bible translation efforts in the Philippines. Their original goal was $5,000. With just one day left, they decided to stretch it to $7,000 — this time with the added incentive of their pastor taking a pie to the face. The kids didn’t just meet the challenge. They exceeded it, raising an astounding $16,000!

These stories remind us that God is stirring passion in the next generation. Through creativity, generosity and a heart for others, kids are making a global impact. What a joy it is to see them catching the vision for Bible translation and stepping into God’s mission in such powerful ways!

See Chapel Pointe’s recap of their VBS giving challenge!

A Church’s Gift to Bible Translation in Vanuatu

After years of prayer and preparation, the Presbyterian Church of Vanuatu (PCV) is stepping boldly into the ministry of Bible translation by launching the Nafsanigir PCV Cluster project. With 26 languages in need of God’s Word, PCV has organized them into five clusters and plans to launch a new cluster every few months. To make this vision a reality, the church has established and staffed its own translation desk, appointed a field coordinator and begun conversations with local communities to lay the groundwork for lasting impact.

What makes this story extraordinary is not just the scale of the project but also the way the church itself is leading and investing in it. PCV isn’t waiting for outside organizations to do the work for them — they are giving generously of their own resources.

In fact, the church and local communities are contributing an astonishing $1.33 million of in-kind donations, covering more than half the project’s overall budget. From staff and facilities, to volunteer time and local leadership, this gift represents their deep commitment to see Scripture accessible in every language.

This approach, known as “Church- and Community-Based Bible Translation” or CBBT, places the ministry of translation directly in the hands of local believers. Within the first year, PCV leaders will have the capacity to organize and facilitate training with minimal outside help, while also inviting collaboration across the Pacific to strengthen skills and increase capacity. Rooted in community ownership, the project ensures that translation is not only done for the people but by the people — a model that will benefit generations to come.

In Vanuatu, generosity looks like a church giving what it has — people, places and passion — to bring God’s Word to life in 26 languages. Their gift in kind is more than numbers on a budget; it’s a powerful testimony of faith, sacrifice and vision for the Great Commission.

The Great Commission: A Joy-Filled Command for Us All

Before Jesus ascended to heaven, He gave His disciples a command that we now refer to as the Great Commission: “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:18-20, NLT).

It wasn’t a suggestion; it was a call for every believer. For centuries, the global Church has been moving toward this goal of making disciples of all nations, and today we are closer than ever to seeing it fulfilled. Now is the time to respond with joyful obedience — to learn, to pray, to give and to engage.

The Great Commission isn’t reserved for a select few. No matter our stage of life, occupation or location, each of us is invited into God’s mission. Some will go, others will serve locally and many will support global efforts through prayer and financial partnership. At the heart of this call is the truth that the gospel is for every people group, every language and every culture. And with approximately 550 languages still waiting for even a single verse of Scripture, the need is urgent.

We get to be messengers of the gospel — messengers of this life-changing, radical joy that we experience in and through Christ — in all that we do and say. We get to show the world that God loves them and desires to fill them with joy too.

So what does it look like to respond? For some, it means praying faithfully for Bible translation projects and the communities they serve. For others, it may mean giving generously to fuel this work or even starting a giving circle with friends or family. You might choose to share the vision with your church, small group, neighbors or coworkers so more people can join in. However God leads you, your joyful “yes” helps advance the mission of seeing all people have access to all Scripture.

In the meantime, let’s imagine the indescribable joy that we will experience one day when we’re worshipping together before the throne! There, we will see people from all corners of the world, praising God in the languages that He uniquely gifted them and used to capture their hearts. What a glorious, joy-filled day that will be!

Meet Sara!

Sara Hentzel grew up attending church, but it wasn’t until she was around 30 that Christ transformed her life through a relationship with Him. As she grew in commitment to Him, her pastor shared about short-term missions opportunities. Feeling that it was a next step to becoming more like Christ, Sara and her family signed up for a trip.

Sara said, “It just really rocked our world. And so we decided to let God interrupt our lives and just offered our lives to God.” They decided to move to Jamaica and serve as missionaries with another organization. They started a Bible training center for pastors and lay leaders. After her husband’s passing in 2016, Sara moved back to Iowa and returned to a job in software development in the agricultural industry.

Sara’s Journey to Serving With Wycliffe

One day, God began prompting Sara to consider using her software development skills in a new way. So she searched on the internet for software developer jobs in missions. “I didn’t know if that was even a thing,” she recalled.

When Wycliffe Bible Translators came up in the search results, Sara learned that software has an important role in Bible translation. She said, “You can’t buy Bible translation software off the shelf, and so you have to write your own.”

In 2018, Sara began serving with Wycliffe! In her role, she focuses on developing Audio Project Manager, a desktop and web application that simplifies how translation teams organize, edit and manage audio files. She said:

A Day in the Life as a Software Developer in Missions

At Wycliffe we collaborate in a global community and develop dynamic comradery with like-minded people. On a typical day, Sara works remotely from her home in Iowa. Each morning she meets with her prayer group for a time of prayer before gathering with her team to plan out their day. Some team members work from offices in Dallas, Asia or Canada, but most work from their homes around the world.

Sara said, “It’s one of the things we were just praising God for today — that you can live anywhere. I love the flexibility.”

Sara also plays a role in spreading awareness of how software is used in Bible translation. She enjoys the opportunity to travel to conferences to teach, share and inspire others about the work!

What Is Oral Bible Translation?

We want the whole world to have access to God’s Word. For a community to engage with Scripture, it needs to be available in a language and format people clearly understand. In some communities, literacy rates are very low, so providing a written translation of Scripture wouldn’t make it accessible to people.

Some communities rely on oral translation and storytelling. In fact, even people who are literate often prefer listening to Scripture rather than reading. Not only does the audio format help during the translation process, but it also allows people to access God’s Word while literacy work is still just developing in their community so they don’t have to wait to be transformed by Scripture.

Sara shared about one app called Akuo, which allows communities to access the Bible through audio and visual aids directly on their phones. The app prioritizes images, with a picture for every section of the Bible.

Sara said, “Other apps might read to you, but they expect you to be able to read to get around and find what you want. So Akuo is an app designed from the beginning to accommodate non-literate navigation, which was different from anything we’ve seen before.”

Using AI Tools in Bible Translation

AI technology has revolutionized the process of Bible translation. We are reaching communities with Scripture faster than ever before, and one factor expediting that is the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Here are just a couple of ways we’re seeing it used for God’s glory:

• Jumpstarting Translation Work: In places where there is not yet any Scripture, software can process words from a community’s language and teach itself to develop a draft. In some cases, translators have access to equipment that can help create an alphabet where none exists.
• Saving Time: One tool uses the content of a translated New Testament to produce a first draft of the Old Testament. AI can also help find mistakes or potential problem areas in a manuscript within seconds, saving the translation team countless hours.

Sara shared, “We can use AI to search through the audio to find everywhere a word was used, and update it when a better translation is found.”

In situations where a recording studio isn’t available, oral translation teams may work in a small room or area with pillows and blankets for noise cancellation. But that setup doesn’t fully eliminate all extraneous noises. So Sara also sees AI assisting with tasks like noise removal and voice recognition in oral Bible translation.

While we understand that AI must be stewarded wisely, we’re excited to see how God continues to use technology to further His Kingdom and bring people to Him!

A Trip Overseas to See the Impact

Today local churches are asking for — and sometimes even starting — Bible translation themselves. It’s important to meet communities where they are, especially in oral cultures. Software supports this process!

Sara recently had the chance to travel to Uganda to see software in use and gather feedback from translators. She said, “It was a really special trip for me, because I got to see people using the software that I’ve spent the last six years writing.”

Sara had the chance to attend a workshop with six language teams from across the country. It was a time for the teams to collaborate, focus on the Word and learn from one another. She remembered seeing their excitement and hearing firsthand from the teams about how having Scripture in their own language in an audio format is making a difference.

She said, “It’s just really cool to be able to meet people where they’re at and to give them the Scripture in the language and the method that works best for them.”

Being a Part of God’s Mission

God has invited us to be a part of making His name known among the nations. As He raises up His Church around the globe, He’s encouraging us to join in too!

Sara reminds about the importance of relying on God throughout every experience as He fulfills the mission. She said: “There’s so much work to do. I could work 400 hours a week, and so we really have to trust God that He’s got this. This is His work. He's asked us to join Him, but it’s not our work.”

What if generosity wasn’t something you practiced alone but something you shared with friends? That’s the vision behind a giving circle — a group of people who come together around a shared passion for God’s Word and decide to give collectively.

When believers join together, something powerful happens. A gift that might feel small on its own becomes multiplied when it’s combined with others. People no longer experience joy in isolation; their celebration is shared as friends rejoice together in what God is doing around the world. And along the way, relationships deepen as people encourage and sharpen one another in their faith.

Giving circles aren’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Some meet in homes, others in churches or coffee shops. Some focus on one project, while others rotate where they give. The common thread is community — finding like-minded believers and stepping into something bigger together.

One group of friends discovered just how transformational a giving circle can be. Their story shows that giving circles aren’t just about money; they’re about multiplying impact, strengthening friendships and creating a legacy that will ripple throughout eternity.

Friendships Rooted in God’s Word

Andrea Elbadramany, one of the circle’s founding members, was reminded that friendships often form around shared passions. “Most of the time, people do things they love with their friends. … When you are in love with God’s Word, it’s easy to gravitate towards people who share those same values.”

For Andrea and her friends, that shared love for Scripture naturally pulled them together. Her husband, Sami, summed it up simply: “The gospel starts with God’s Word. Discipleship starts with God’s Word.”

This foundation of friendship and faith became the spark that launched their giving circle.

Discovering the Need

The group didn’t set out to create a giving circle. In fact, it all started when their friends Mike and Shaina invited the group to dinner to hear about Bible translation.

Rich Blumenfeld, another member of the giving circle, recalled, “We just naively assumed that everybody’s got a Bible, and we didn’t know that there was this big of a need for it.”

That night, the group learned that millions of people around the world are still waiting for Scripture in a language and format they can clearly understand. The need was overwhelming — but together, they realized they could do something about it.

Giving Circles: Stronger Together

When they began giving as a group, something remarkable happened. Their impact grew — and so did their friendships.

Christina Blumenfeld shared, “We just felt like this was something we would want to do together. … It’s made our friendship even more meaningful.”

Sami explained why giving together made sense: “What really moved us to give as part of a community instead of on our own was the ability to say that I can play a really small part — or we can see a bigger impact if we get together with a group of friends and fellow believers who are also passionate about God’s Word and really make a bigger dent in the direction of getting a book of the Bible or an entire Bible in a language for a people group that don’t have it.”

That multiplied impact quickly became visible. Scott Cochran, another member of the giving circle, described how their pooled generosity supported a cluster project in Nigeria:

“This year we finally got to see completed New Testaments in all four of the language groups from our cluster. That’s something we definitely couldn’t have done on our own.”

The circle wasn’t just giving; they were witnessing lives being transformed through God’s Word.

A Ripple Effect of Generosity

The group also discovered that their generosity inspired others. Their gatherings became contagious.

Sami explained, “We have a vibrant community of believers who love God and love each other. … When other people see that, they want it. We’ve had lots of people come join our giving circle we didn’t even tell about Wycliffe. They just said, ‘Hey, why is everybody at your house?’ and ‘Why wasn’t I there?’ and ‘Oh, wow, I didn’t even know Bible translation was a thing.’ They wanted to be part of something bigger than themselves.”

Generosity rippled outward from this giving circle, touching not only those receiving Scripture across the world but also people in the circle’s local community.

Christina reflected on how the group encourages one another: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17, NIV).

Moving Into New Frontiers

After celebrating the completion of New Testaments in Nigeria, the circle looked for their next giving opportunity. This time, God opened their eyes to something new: sign languages.

Ashley Cochran shared their excitement: “[Deaf communities] need the Bible just as much as we do, and just as much as the other speaking groups do. We are super excited to help come alongside them in this next project.”

Now their circle is helping fuel Bible translation in 43 sign languages, opening the door for millions of people in Deaf communities to encounter God’s Word in a language that touches their hearts.

Explore Bible translation projects you and your friends could support together. Visit wycliffe.org/projects.

Witnessing God at Work

Over time, the group has recognized that their giving is part of something much bigger than themselves.

Rich, who loves numbers, pointed to the rapid growth in Bible translation: “All of a sudden, the last couple years, [the number of translations started has] been parabolic. It’s obvious God is on the move. … Be part of a ministry where you can actually see God’s hand working. That’s exciting!”

Scott added, “It’s giving us so much encouragement hearing all the things God is doing throughout the world in getting His Word out to people and the impact that’s having.”

What started with a single dinner invitation has become a testimony of how God multiplies generosity.

A Lasting Legacy

For Andrea, the true legacy of their giving is eternal: “The legacy I would hope this giving would leave is, first and foremost, whoever gets ahold of God’s Word that they would be able to read and understand that God loves them and that He wants to be in a relationship with them and to spend eternity with them. To be able to support something that has been so life-changing for us, to give that access to other people and do it together with people who are just as passionate as you, is so fun.”

Find Your Circle

This giving circle has seen firsthand how generosity creates ripple effects that last forever. By coming together to give, they’ve experienced deeper friendships, multiplied impact and amplified the joy of seeing God’s Word transform lives.

And the best part? Anyone can do this.

Video tribute courtesy of Seed Company.

On Sept. 29, 2025, one of the great heroes of Bible translation, Dr. Katharine (Katy) Barnwell, went home to be with the Lord after a lifetime of faithful service.

Katy’s impact on Bible translation is almost impossible to overstate. As Russ Hersman, Wycliffe’s former chief operating officer and now a field coordinator for Anglophone/Lusophone Africa, put it: “I don’t know that there’s anyone doing translation work today who hasn’t been impacted in some way by Katy’s writing and teaching. Her technique, known as the ‘Barnwell Translation Method,’ is used by local translators to translate the Scriptures into their heart language.”

Her journey began in 1960, when she heard George Cowan speak about the need for Bible translation at her university’s Christian Union. Katy later recalled, “When I heard about the need for Bible translation and what was involved, I immediately knew in my heart, ‘This is for me.’” That simple moment of calling set her on a path that reshaped the face of global missions.

Katy spent much of her career in Nigeria, training and mentoring teams to translate God’s Word into dozens of languages. Her groundbreaking textbook, “Bible Translation: An Introductory Course in Translation Principles,” has been printed and reprinted for decades, becoming the gold standard for training translators across Africa, Asia, the Americas, Eurasia and the Pacific. As Russ reflected: “Most of us take for granted that much of Bible translation today is done by local translation teams. Katy wrote the book on that. I mean, she literally wrote the book on that — the book that has been used to train a couple generations of national translators.”

But Katy’s influence extended far beyond methods and manuals. She was deeply relational, marked by humility and approachability. “One might think Katy was some high-level, barely approachable academic,” Russ noted, “but nothing could be less true. Among the majority world, where relationships are the currency of working together, Katy has always been ‘one of us’ — whether the ‘us’ were from England or Ethiopia or East Timor.”

Her colleagues in Nigeria often called her “Mama Katy.” Others have called her the “mother of modern Bible translation” or even the “mother of 21st century missions.” What united these titles was her deep commitment to equipping others, building up the Church and ensuring that people everywhere could encounter God’s Word in their own language.

Katy’s legacy is not just in the methods she pioneered or the books she wrote. It is in the thousands of lives she touched, the leaders she mentored and the generations of translators she empowered.

“We grieve her passing, but we also celebrate a life marked by extraordinary faithfulness and impact,” said Dr. John Chesnut, Wycliffe’s president and CEO. “I believe she has already heard the words she longed for: ‘Well done, good and faithful servant.’”

Do you remember the first Bible verse you ever heard or read?

Maybe it was John 3:16 (NIV): “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

Every word of the Bible is God-breathed into existence for His glory and our good. Through Scripture, His heart speaks to our souls and comes alive in people everywhere. There, we encounter the living God, who knows us intimately and wants to transform us through His Spirit. And, by far, it’s best shared when it’s in a language and format people clearly understand.

Mark Pugyao, an Isnag translator in the Philippines, described, with tears in his eyes, what it means for him to have the Bible in his language: “My heart is just melting. It’s like butter melting when I read it in my own heart language. I understand every single word that the Lord says in His Word. I am really excited to share what I felt when I read through all this — the whole Bible in my heart language.”

We could tell you countless stories of people just like Mark who have experienced the hope and joy of meeting Jesus in their language. (In fact, simply follow us on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube to get a taste of the global impact!) For now, here’s a glimpse into a few communities that have experienced firsthand exactly how the Bible changes everything.

Weh New Testament | Cameroon

The long-awaited Weh New Testament dedication took place in Yaoundé, Cameroon, on May 18, 2025! About 320 people gathered together that afternoon to welcome the Scriptures in their language.

The presence of so many leaders and people from within the Weh community — both young and old — dressed in their traditional regalia is a testament to the fact that the people cherished and anticipated the day God would finally speak to them in their own language. The theme of the celebration was based on Psalm 119:105 (ESV): “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

After the guests arrived, Rev. Kang Michael Samba presented a brief but impactful history of the Bible translation project — outlining the vision, challenges and triumphs that led to the completion of the Weh New Testament. This was followed by speeches from other leaders involved with the translation project or community.

One of the most exciting, colorful moments was the procession and presentation of the Weh New Testament. A vibrant procession with a traditional dance group, notables adorned in traditional attire and clergy members in their official ecclesiastical robes danced and ushered in the New Testament. The book was carried in a basket by a little girl; it symbolized the fact that the Weh New Testament is the best harvest achieved by the community — a harvest that will serve as nourishment for the Weh people.

Rev. Samuel Ngeh, the Weh Bible translation consultant, was presented with the New Testament during the dedication ceremony. He then declared the authenticity of the Weh New Testament, stressing the fact that it has undergone all rigorous checks and translation processes. He encouraged the community that the New Testament was fit for them to read, study and consume.

The dedication concluded with the Fon (the chieftain or ruler of the region) recognizing key translation project workers, showing appreciation for their dedication and sacrifice.

The Fon declared: “The Bible in the Weh language is a miracle in our hands. [It] communicates to us the truths of God as He expects us to understand. Matthew, for example, now has [a] direct connection to us because it is translated in a way we, the Weh person, will understand. Matthew 6:33 says that as we seek first the Kingdom of God, every other thing will be added to us.”

He continued: “As the Fon of Weh, I have put and continue to put the Word of God first in this kingdom. I know [that,] because we have done that, and as we continue to do so, God’s blessing will be part of our lives and will transform our community. I know God will remember each son and daughter of Weh favorably. As the Fon, I order that every village meeting, be it in the community or out, must start with the reading of Scriptures. Let literacy classes be [multiplied] in every town where Weh people are. My prayer is that we are not going to end here. I have the strong belief and desire that one day very soon, we as a community will celebrate the complete Bible — both Old and New Testaments in the Weh language.”

Praise God that Weh men, women and children now have access to the New Testament in their own language! Pray that as people engage with Scripture, their hearts and lives will be changed forever.

Gbadi New Testament | Côte d'Ivoire

Praise God: The Gbadi New Testament dedication took place in Côte d'Ivoire in December 2024.

A wide range of people attended the ceremony at St. Ann Cathedral in the city of Gagnoa — ranging from religious and administrative authorities to executives, community leaders and numerous speakers from various villages. The day was full of exciting events, including speeches, performances by local language choirs and even a screening of the “JESUS” film.

One of the most symbolic moments was when a copy of the New Testament was presented to representatives of several Christian denominations; this emphasized the inclusive and interdenominational nature of the translation project. The dedication of the Word of God in the Gbadi language took place in an atmosphere full of emotion and celebration.

The dances people performed, songs they sang and joy expressed from the speakers all testified to how enthusiastic the community was about receiving their Scriptures. Thanks to the generosity and prayers of people just like you, the Gbadi community can now read, listen to and celebrate the Word of God in their own language! This moment marked a strong spiritual and cultural turning point for these people.

As the community celebrates their Scripture, pray also for all that the team has planned next, including conducting training sessions for reading classes in Gbadi, distributing copies of the New Testaments to churches and homes, and outreach to encourage the use of texts, audio and other tools in the local language!

Rwandan Sign Language | Rwanda

Yassin, a Rwandan Sign Language user, is proud to assist with programs at his church for the Deaf. He has seen church staff and Bible translators work together to serve people who have distanced themselves from God or never recognized Him as the Creator.

Not long ago, Yassin didn’t feel close to the Lord either.

That began to change one day when he was scrolling through social media posts. He stumbled on some videos the Rwandan Sign Language Bible translation team had created. Each one took a portion of Scripture and delivered it as a story — a format that resonates deeply with many Deaf individuals.

As he watched biblical narratives signed in his language, he felt touched. He wanted to know more about the God they proclaimed. Yassin continued watching the Scripture stories. Through them, he discovered foundations of the Christian faith. From the story of creation, for instance, he learned that God made the world and everything in it.

Eager to learn even more, Yassin contacted the translation team. They offered answers to the questions running through his mind. “I want to thank [the] staff for taking their valuable time to teach me about the Bible,” he shared later.

Now Yassin is grateful that he, too, can use Scripture in his sign language to help others at his church draw near to the Lord. In light of the impact he’s already seen, he declared, “Bible translation work in Rwanda is changing a lot of lives.”

Thanks to the perseverance of the Rwandan Sign Language translation team, Deaf Rwandans are finally enjoying over two dozen Bible narratives in a format they clearly understand!

And these Scripture videos have triggered even more awe-inspiring transformation. Deaf Christians are forming Bible study groups where they watch and discuss the translated Scripture. This material has even inspired some to lead Sunday church services on their own. Others visit the Rwandan Sign Language Bible translation office every week to study the Word of God.

The translation team is delighted by God’s work among their people, and they can’t wait to see what else He has in store as they produce more sign language Scripture.

Ndokwa New Testament | Nigeria

“I was just 16 when I began translating 3 John into [Ndokwa], not knowing that one day it would ignite a movement.”

Rev. Roland Ejam, translator for the Ndokwa language in Nigeria, continued: “I never imagined that my teenage devotion would one day reach the entire Ndokwa nation. The journey wasn’t easy: I lost my manuscript to fire, my second draft to a crashed laptop and spent years rewriting with nothing but grace and a pen. But God sustained me.

With the support of mentors, Roland mobilized the Ndokwa people and formed a 12-member translation team. The team received intensive training and developed literacy materials. They produced the Gospel of Luke, the “JESUS” film and ultimately the entire New Testament in their language!

“I witnessed firsthand the trials Roland endured,” Rev. Gibson noted. “But to now hold this [New Testament] in our hands is to hold a miracle. It reminds us that even through fire and loss, God preserves His purpose. This [New Testament] is not just ink on pages; it is a testament to divine faithfulness and human perseverance.”

Following the New Testament’s arrival, the Ndokwa people began preparations for two historic dedication ceremonies in January and February of 2025. At both events, Christians from various church denominations gathered together in unity to celebrate.

When Scripture was dedicated and people publicly read it in the Ndokwa language for the first time, it was a deeply emotional moment.

The dedications symbolized the beginning of a new spiritual era for the Ndokwa people. The communities received the New Testament with great joy; testimonies poured in from people of all ages, expressing how the translation brought God's Word to life in a language they truly understood.

Reflecting on the joy at the celebrations, a Ndokwa elder said, “We danced — not for entertainment but because the Word had finally returned in our own tongue.

A Ndokwa teenager echoed this and said, “Before, church sometimes felt confusing because I didn’t understand all the English in the Bible. But now, with the Ndokwa [New Testament], I get it. I can read it by myself. I can even help my younger siblings understand stories about Jesus. For the first time, I feel like the Bible is also meant for people like me. … I’m proud that Jesus speaks my language too.”

Bishop Dickson Ozah, Ndokwa project chairman, reflected on how the Scripture dedications were a picture of what heaven will look like: “Watching entire communities dance through the streets, celebrating the arrival of God’s Word in [their language], was a glimpse of heaven. This translation is not just a book — it’s a restoration of identity, faith and destiny for the Ndokwa people.”

What began as a quiet, personal translation project has become a historic and transformational movement, bringing the Word of God to life for the Ndokwa people. Praise God for His faithfulness!

The Bible and You

This is the power of the Bible: It transforms lives and hearts when people understand it in a way that speaks directly to their hearts. Truly, the Bible changes everything — changes that start today, as new people encounter the gospel for the first time, and end with us all together, standing before the throne to worship God in our own languages, having encountered Him personally through His Word.

So what about you? How has the Bible changed your life? If you have personally experienced the transformative power of knowing and understanding God’s love for you through His Word, then consider how you can be part of seeing this same transformation happen for others!

Pray

Every story of transformation begins with prayer. It is where we must first join God in His work, asking Him to move in the lives of people who are still waiting for Scripture. It’s one of the simplest yet most powerful ways you can take part in Bible translation. As you pray, you stand with translators, local churches and entire communities longing to experience God’s love in a language and format they clearly understand.

Join Wycliffe’s Prayer Community to receive timely requests and updates from Bible translation projects, and pray alongside others who share your passion for God’s Word.

Advocate

Think about what it meant for you to understand John 3:16 for the first time — to know personally that God loves you. Millions of people still haven’t had that experience, but you can help change that by telling their story. When you share what God is doing through Bible translation, you help others imagine what life would be like if the pages of their Bible were blank. Advocacy is simply opening someone else’s eyes to the urgency and beauty of this mission.

You can start by sharing the Bible Changes Everything video with your family, friends or church — or you can explore more ways to advocate for Bible translation.

Give

The Bible is God’s love letter to the world — but millions of people still can’t experience it in a language or format they clearly understand. You can help change that. By giving, you’re not just supporting translation projects; you’re part of someone’s transformation. And there are simple, meaningful ways to get involved:

• Adopt-a-Verse: Partner with your church or group to sponsor the translation of specific verses for $35 each, helping complete Scripture for a community still waiting. (Want to see how easy it is? Watch this short video outlining three simple steps to get your church involved!)
• WordGivers: Join a community of monthly donors committed to seeing lives changed by ending blank Bibles and giving the Word to others around the world.

Choose your way to give today and help bring the Bible — God’s living Word — to those still waiting to understand it.

Together through prayer, advocacy and giving, we get to be part of what God is doing — bringing His Word to every nation, people and language. And one day, the story will end just as Scripture promises: with all of us standing before the throne, worshipping Him in our own languages, transformed by His Word.

Kelly Chesnut, spiritual development officer at Wycliffe USA, knows that we were made for more than what this earthly life offers. There are only two things that last forever: God’s Word and people. When those two meet, the impact doesn’t just touch one moment in time — it can ripple across generations.

Right now, millions around the world are still waiting to encounter God’s Word in a language and format they clearly understand. They’re not just waiting for someone to tell them about God; they’re waiting to meet Him personally.

So the question becomes: How can you make a difference?

The Influence of Women on Mission

Throughout history, God has called women to courageously move His mission forward. Sometimes that calling is lived out quietly, in unseen prayers whispered in the dark. Sometimes it’s lived out boldly, in leading a community, advocating for the vulnerable or stepping into global work that changes lives.

That influence may begin at your kitchen table, in your workplace, in your neighborhood or across the world. Lydia worked with purple cloth (Acts 16). Deborah was a prophetess of God and a judge of the nation of Israel (Judges 4-5). Wherever your influence happens, and no matter its scale, it matters.

When women come together through loving the Word, living the Word and sharing the Word, they become a mighty force for the Kingdom of God. And you can be one of those women. Whether your “yes” is whispered in a season of small beginnings or declared boldly on a global stage, God will use it to bring His light to people who need it most.

Stories of Women Living the Word

The influence of women on mission for the Kingdom of God isn’t just an idea; it’s something tangible, far-reaching and essential. We’ve seen it lived out in powerful ways. Across cultures, decades and circumstances, women have said yes to God and stepped into the unique callings He’s placed on their lives.

Here are just a few women who followed God’s call with a passion to see His Word transform lives and shape eternity.

Faye Edgerton’s Vision for the Navajo People

In the high deserts of the American Southwest, a gray-haired woman could often be found walking briskly toward a traditional Navajo dwelling or driving her Volkswagen across the reservation. That woman, Faye Edgerton, had once served in Korea — and there she learned a truth she could never forget: Faith flourishes when people have the Bible in their own language.

Determined to give the Navajo people that same gift, she spent decades mastering their complex language and leading the translation of the Navajo New Testament. Because she persevered, people can encounter God personally in the words of Scripture.

Read Faye’s story →

Florrie Hansen and Eunice Pike: Pioneers Who Broke Barriers

In 1936, two young single women packed their bags and headed to a remote mountain village in Mexico at a time when sending women alone into such regions was unheard of. Florrie Hansen and Eunice Pike resolved to translate the Bible into the Mazatec language, no matter the cost.

Their courage and skill not only resulted in the first Mazatec New Testament but also challenged the limitations many once placed on women’s roles in missions. Their work opened doors for generations of women who would follow in their footsteps.

Read Florrie and Eunice’s story →

Jacqueline Huggins’ Unexpected Calling

Once intent on disproving the Bible’s credibility, Jacqueline Huggins found herself face-to-face with the living God through a late-night encounter with Scripture. That moment transformed her from “anti-evangelist” to passionate Bible translator.

Years later, she made history as the first African American woman to complete a New Testament translation for the Kagayanen people of the Philippines. Her journey is a powerful reminder that God can transform a life through His Word and then use that life to help bring Scripture to even more people around the world.

Read Jacqueline’s story →

Cecilia Legani’s Return Home for Bible Translation

For over 20 years, Cecilia Legani served in ministry across the world — from New Zealand to Peru — never imagining that God would call her back to the Solomon Islands for her most personal mission yet. When she returned home, it wasn’t to rest; it was to help lead Bible translation in her own community.

Today Cecilia works alongside local churches to translate and record Scripture in the languages of her island, ensuring her people can encounter God’s Word in a language that touches their hearts.

Read Cecilia’s story →

Brittany Fancher’s Business With a Mission

After surviving breast cancer at just 27, Brittany Fancher prayed a bold prayer: “God, if You’re going to leave me here, use me.” Out of that prayer came a candle-making company and a decision to dedicate her business entirely to God’s purposes.

As Brittany sells candles at local markets, she displays a sign that says 10% of her profits are given to Bible translation. Every candle sold not only fills a home with light and fragrance but also helps bring the light of God’s Word to people still waiting for it. Customers leave with more than a product; they leave with a glimpse of God’s global mission.

Read Brittany’s story →

What It Looks Like to Be a Woman of the Word

Reading these stories, it’s clear there’s no single path to living as a woman of the Word. For some, like Faye or Cecilia, it means moving to another community and helping translate Scripture.

For others, like Brittany, it means using a small business to fund Bible translation. And for women like Florrie, Eunice and Jacqueline, it means breaking barriers, leading with courage and opening doors for future generations.

These are just a handful of examples of what God can do through women who live by His Word and for His glory. Being a woman of the Word doesn’t always mean packing your bags for another country or joining a translation team. It can look like:

• Starting each day with Scripture. Let God’s truth guide your thoughts, words and actions.
• Praying with purpose. Intercede for your family, your church, your community and those still waiting for the Bible in their language.
• Living out your faith where you are. See your home, workplace, school or neighborhood as a mission field.
• Using what’s in your hands. Your skills, resources, time and personal story are all tools for God’s Kingdom.
• Investing in others. Encourage a younger Christian, walk alongside someone in need or share your testimony with someone who needs hope.
• Engaging in God’s global mission. Pray, give or advocate for Bible translation so more people can experience the life-changing power of God’s Word.

No matter your season of life, God has uniquely equipped you to love His Word, live it boldly and share it with the world around you.

Your Invitation

You were created on purpose, for a purpose. Your influence, whether it reaches one person or thousands, can have an eternal impact.

There’s a place for you in this community of women who love God’s Word, live it boldly and share it wherever He leads them.

Say “yes” to living on mission. Be a woman of the Word.

Think of the first time you saw the ocean. Do you remember the emotions it evoked in you?

Perhaps you felt delighted by the sound of the water — the gentle melody of waves lapping at the sand or the thunderous crashes as a storm approached. Maybe you felt overwhelmed by its sheer size, stretching beyond the horizon. Or perhaps you felt awed by the knowledge that beneath its surface lives an entire ecosystem.

There’s something about the ocean that declares, “I was created by a Master Designer who is bigger and more powerful than your mind can comprehend!”

That same Master Designer didn’t just create the ocean and all that is hidden within its depths; He created everything, as we see described in Genesis 1–2.

Today, God is still creating new things — things our finite, human minds can’t always comprehend. But that’s the beauty of the God we serve: He cannot be contained by human understanding or finite wisdom. He is God, and He will make Himself known throughout all of creation!

As believers, we know this is true. But sometimes we get caught up in the busyness of our daily lives and lose sight of the reverence we should hold for all that God has done and continues to do.

The same happens in the Bible translation space. We know that God is at work, but sometimes we need to simply step back and stand in awe at the sheer magnitude of what He is doing — not just within our own communities but around the world! Like the energy that causes the waves to move across the ocean, God’s Spirit is driving transformation everywhere.

Join us today in stepping back to look with awe at what God is doing in the Pacific — a region of 14 countries comprising thousands of islands and hundreds of languages — where people are encountering Jesus personally through Scripture.

No Longer “The West to the Rest”

Historically, Christian missions often originated from Western countries going out into the rest of the world to spread the gospel. In the Pacific, missionaries came from the U.S. and various European countries to evangelize and plant churches. This model, while effective, took great effort; the intricacies of traveling from one island to the next — or even within the same island nation — were complicated and time-consuming.

Let’s take a closer look at one country in the Pacific: Papua New Guinea (PNG). This beautiful country is the most linguistically diverse country in the world, with more than 840 known languages. In part due to the rugged terrain, communities might be only a few miles apart from one another but have completely unique languages!

Because of this linguistic diversity, PNG has always been counted among “the Big Five” areas with the highest remaining Bible translation needs in the world. Currently the Big Five also includes East Asia, Indonesia, Vanuatu and the global Deaf. As you can see, all four of the country-specific areas reside within the Pacific and its neighboring region, Asia, representing more than 60% of the remaining languages that are known to need Bible translation to begin.

But today Papua New Guinea is on the cusp of seeing Bible translation begin for every language still waiting — and that significant milestone in history will be a direct result of decades of prayer and the faithful obedience of agencies and local churches who have stepped up to say, “We want the Bible in our own language for our community! And we’re willing to do the work, together.”

Yara Maka, director of BATTLE, Inc. in Papua New Guinea, shares how Bible translation is shifting to meet the specific spiritual needs of local communities. By starting with stories that resonate — like Jesus calming the storm in maritime regions — translators are helping Scripture come alive in hearts, homes and ministries.

Local Church and Community Ownership

In 2022, more than 570 languages across the Pacific needed Bible translation to begin for the first time or restart. These were largely centralized in Papua New Guinea, Australia, Fiji, New Caledonia, the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu.

A significant shift has occurred over the last few years. Local partners such as BATTLE, Inc. and United Church Papuan Islands Region (UCPIR) in Papua New Guinea, led by the Lord, proactively sought a process by which local partners and churches own Bible translation as a ministry of the church. The hope was to see transformation in their communities as they initiated, owned and led the effort.

This wasn’t orchestrated by Wycliffe USA or driven by a Western initiative. Instead, it was birthed in prayer — a chorus rising from PNG, Australia and the Pacific islands. Believers gathered, asking God to start Bible translation work in the remaining communities and bring transformation to the people.

The Synod of UCPIR, the governing body of UCPIR, set the vision and realized the need to invite other denominations across the province in PNG. Multiple denominations signed an agreement affirming unity and shared responsibility in Milne Bay, a province of PNG.

A tool called the “Overview” was developed as a framework to gather church leaders, hear their vision and share core translation principles. For example, Vanuatu and Fijian church leaders met in the Solomon Islands and, after learning about the vision for translation led by regional churches and communities, invited PNG leaders to provide an overview for them. This approach resonates with the Pacific culture of relational leadership and collective processing.

The Overview process continues to evolve as more churches in different countries learn from others and seek to establish translation ministry within their communities. Along the way, it’s the local churches and communities that own and establish Bible translation goals for their communities.

The wave of interest has been driven by a God-led determination to see lives transformed and the confidence that God has placed them as leaders in their churches and communities in this generation for a purpose. They are not waiting to see Bible translation happen; instead, they own all facets of the work with their people!

Sister Cecilia Legani once thought her season of impact might be over — until God turned her quiet “yes” into a powerful homecoming. Now she’s helping lead a Bible translation effort in the Solomon Islands, bringing God’s Word to life in the language of her childhood. Read how God is using Cecilia to reach her childhood community.

Ripple Effects in the Region

Progress had been slow in countries like Vanuatu, but the same momentum that took hold in PNG is now rippling outward to reach those shores as well. Some church leaders from Vanuatu even traveled to PNG, saw the process firsthand and returned energized, ready to take on the work themselves. Today they are doing just that, taking initiative to translate the Bible as a ministry of the church.

The Presbyterian Church of Vanuatu has started work in 25 languages. Other partners are collaborating to ensure that all remaining languages are engaged in translation. As a result, Vanuatu is on the verge of reaching zero languages waiting for Bible translation to start!

And they’re not alone. Fiji is close behind, and the Solomon Islands have identified languages to utilize the church and community-led translation process; church and organizational leaders there have requested training using the model. In New Caledonia, various churches and communities have indicated interest, and next steps are in the early stages of development. Additionally, partner organizations have now committed to tackling the 14 remaining sign languages in the Pacific that are known to need translation work to begin. Only one province — West Sepik — still has a significant number of languages waiting for translation to start, and plans are in place to engage churches among the remaining 40+ languages.

All of these efforts have resulted from church leaders seeing the community impact of participating in the translation of God’s Word together. These churches have longed to see transformation among their people, and Bible translation is becoming the ministry that supports the breadth of their discipleship efforts within their communities!

While it’s clear that the force driving this new wave is local initiative energized by the Holy Spirit, collaboration with Bible societies and other mission agencies remains vital. In PNG, BATTLE is now engaged with Bible translation projects in more than 230 languages. United Church of PNG and additional partners like Word for the World, Beyond Translation, Rhema for the Nations and Faith Comes By Hearing are tackling most of the other new translation projects with local churches and communities. The skills and competencies of these respected, established partners prove invaluable in supporting the wave.

In just 18 months, the landscape has changed. The Pacific is no longer a place where, limited by our human understanding of the possibilities, we ask God to somehow show up and move; it’s a place where we rejoice because He already is moving and at work in new, exciting ways!

Discover how churches in the Solomon Islands are leading a Bible translation movement that’s transforming lives and communities. Through partnerships, technology and a church-owned translation model, see how God is raising up Bible translation workers from within churches across the Pacific region!

The Work Ahead: Making Disciples From One Shore to the Next

In the Pacific, the ocean is not a barrier — it’s a highway. Just as canoes once traveled island to island, local community and church leaders are now carrying the gospel across waters, bringing the vision of Bible translation from one shore to the next.

They are praying, discerning, planning and stepping out in faith together, asking that God would equip them to reach people with the gospel and disciple them. Their efforts are focused on:

• Seeing translation start in all remaining languages by the end of 2025.
• Getting Scripture to everyone so that all people can encounter God personally.
• Prioritizing language engagement based on the local churches’ values.

Because of this church-led vision and collaboration, we prayerfully anticipate seeing the Pacific removed from the Vision 2025 list by the end of 2025, indicating that Bible translation has started for all languages that need projects to begin!

This is a God-only movement and a moment in history when we stand back in awe and declare, “This is God’s hand at work! This is His Spirit being poured out, and the resulting wave of His glory is cresting in ways that our human minds can only begin to understand.”

Starting Bible translation in a community is only one milestone in the much longer journey of making the full counsel of God’s Word accessible in a language and format they clearly understand. There is still significant work to be done, and we will need to continue praying that God would move in and through His Church, both in the Pacific and around the world.

But let’s not miss the opportunity to stop and acknowledge this moment. God is on the move, and He is using His translated Word to capture hearts and equip local churches to make disciples of Jesus!

May His glory be made known and His love experienced among the nations as we sit back and declare, “All the nations you made will come and bow before you, Lord; they will praise your holy name. For you are great and perform wonderful deeds. You alone are God” (Psalm 86:9–10, NLT).

But the page is empty.

You turn another page, and another. Each one is blank: no comforting psalms, no red letters of Jesus’ words, no promises of hope and no story of redemption.

For millions of people today, that’s reality. The Bible doesn’t yet exist in their language, or it’s missing entire sections. They’ve never experienced God’s Word shared in church. They’ve never encountered the story of Jesus in a language and format they clearly understand — whether by reading, hearing or seeing it signed. The message of God’s love has never reached them in a way that touches their hearts.

No More Blank Bibles

The Bible is more than ink on paper. It’s God’s own heart written on the pages, speaking to our souls and coming alive within people everywhere. It’s the foundation for evangelism, discipleship, church planting and personal transformation.

From the first verse in Genesis to the final promise in Revelation, Scripture tells the story of a God who loves, redeems and restores. Every word is God-breathed (2 Timothy 3:16-17), brought into existence for our good and His glory.

When a community receives Scripture in their language for the first time, everything changes. Hope replaces despair. Truth breaks through lies. People meet the living God who knows them each by name.

The Power of Just Eight Verses

In a small Ugandan village, eight newly translated verses of the Bible began to circulate for the very first time.

It wasn’t a full Bible or even an entire chapter, but those eight verses — communicated in a language and format the people could clearly understand — had the power to change lives.

As the eight Scriptures were read aloud and shared among neighbors, people began to listen intently. The words resonated in a way that no one there had felt before. For the first time, they experienced the truth of God’s love and hope in a language that touched their hearts.

The result was transformation. Light started shining into spiritual darkness, and lives began to change. As the translators shared those verses throughout the village, people came to Christ, and the message of hope took root in their hearts.

Think about that — just eight verses altered the spiritual trajectory of an entire village. That’s the power of Scripture! And that’s why Bible translation is so urgent: Even the smallest portion of God’s Word can open the door to life-changing faith in a person’s life.

The Vision We’re Working Toward

The Bible paints a picture of the future in Revelation 7:9a:

“After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb” (NLT).

That’s where the story ends — with people from every language worshipping God together. But today, the work to reach that conclusion isn’t finished. More than 7,300 languages are spoken or signed around the world, and hundreds still don’t have the full counsel of God’s Word.

Wycliffe Bible Translators exists to change that reality — to ensure no Bible is left blank. By working with churches, communities and partner organizations, we’re helping bring Scripture to every language that needs it, in formats people can clearly understand.

And you can be part of the story.

3 Ways You Can Get Involved

Whether you get involved individually or alongside your church family, you can help bring God’s Word to people still waiting.

1. Adopt-a-Verse — For Churches and Groups

Host a one-time event where individuals in your congregation sponsor the translation of specific Bible verses for $35 each. You choose a book of the Bible to adopt, often aligning with a sermon series or church study. Wycliffe provides all the resources you need to make the event easy and meaningful.

Each verse sponsored brings the Bible closer to completion for a community still waiting — and creates a personal connection to God’s mission.

Learn more about Adopt-a-Verse ›

2. 12 Verse Challenge (12VC) — For Churches and Groups

Invite your church to sponsor one verse each month for a year. This digital-first program makes it easy for people to commit to ongoing Bible translation support, while seeing the impact grow month after month.

Your church receives a kit with designs, sermon prep notes, talking points and inspiring videos so you can track and celebrate your collective progress.

Learn more about the 12 Verse Challenge ›

3. WordGivers — For Individuals

Become a monthly donor committed to ending blank Bibles. As a WordGiver, you’ll join a community of people making Scripture accessible around the world, while receiving updates and stories about the impact you’re helping create.

WordGivers often become advocates, encouraging their churches to take on Adopt-a-Verse or the 12 Verse Challenge. It’s an easy next step from one-time giving into ongoing, life-changing partnership.

Learn more about becoming a WordGiver ›

The Right Next Step Starts Today

The Bible changes everything — and you can help ensure no one is missing out on it. Whether it’s sponsoring a single verse, committing to a year of giving or joining as a monthly WordGiver, your involvement brings Scripture to life for communities still waiting.

Together we have the joy and privilege of working toward a day when every man, woman and child has access to Scripture in a language and format they clearly understand. It starts with a blank Bible, but it ends with lives transformed.

Thank you for being part of making God’s name known among the nations!

The world is at your fingertips. All it takes is the press of a button, a spoken command or a few keywords, and there you have it: access to information about anything, anytime, anywhere. We literally carry a world’s worth of information in our pockets!

Technological advances in the 21st century have changed the way that we approach all aspects of life. Here are just a few examples:

• You can travel to another country and have a conversation with someone who speaks a completely different language, just by pointing your phone at a sign or speaking into an app.
• You can ask your phone a question — “How many people live in the world?” or “What’s the capital of Mozambique?” — and get an instant answer.
• Lost in a new city? Your GPS not only shows you where to go but also tells you when to turn and how long it’ll take to get to your destination.
• With one video call, you can see a friend in Kenya, pray with family in Brazil or attend a church service on the other side of the world.
• Apps like Zoom, WhatsApp and FaceTime bring the global Church — and global friendships — right into your living room at any hour of the day or night.

For most of us, gone are the days of dial-up internet and having to check out books from the library to do research. Now, access is instant, and we’ve learned to not only like it but expect it. Our ability to patiently wait for something is dwindling by the day — when it comes to our daily rhythms and to our long-term goals and pursuits.

How does all this translate to Bible translation? Great question! Let’s take a look.

God’s Plans, Not Ours

Just as access to information is increasing rapidly, access to translated Scripture is too! Today, Wycliffe and our partners are seeing an incredible acceleration in the Bible translation movement. New language projects are starting at a faster pace than ever before, and in numbers higher than we could have imagined! The translated Scriptures are also reaching communities faster than ever before — via video, audio, apps and print!

Yet, if we give in to our human desire for instant gratification, it can be easy to question why things aren’t moving even faster. Even as communities, local churches and partner organizations are initiating, continuing or completing translations every day, there’s still a list of remaining needs — 686 languages that still need Bible translation to begin — and they remain for a reason. Many of them are the hardest of the hard to reach, where geopolitics, remote locations and other major religions can serve as barriers to the gospel.

Our appetite for instant answers could leave us doubting God; after all, isn’t Vision 2025 in alignment with His will that people from every community have the opportunity to worship Him, as described in Revelation 7:9a?

The truth is, the answer to this question is both yes and no. Yes, God wants all people to be able to worship Him, and He is bringing that to reality each and every day. But must He do it in our human timeline? That answer is unequivocally no. Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us, “‘My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,’ says the LORD. ‘And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts’” (NLT).

It is His desire that all people come to know Him, and He will bring it to pass according to His perfect timeline; we are simply participants in seeing that truth become reality. But every one of us still has a role to play. In fact, our role is incredibly critical. And it focuses on praying for the nations.

Reaching the Unreached

As we continue pressing ahead toward Vision 2025, we’re asking God to help Bible translation start for every language still needing it by the end of the calendar year. It’s a God-sized goal — a miraculous milestone along the way to seeing all Scripture made available for all people.

Don’t know where to get started? Here are a few ways you can integrate praying for the unreached into your daily rhythms:

• Pray for Countries by Name: There are a lot of opportunities to pray for countries if we intentionally keep our eyes open. See a country in the news where civil and religious unrest is being experienced? Studying other world religions and their origins? Learning a foreign language? Be attentive to God’s leading as you encounter other countries throughout your day, or check out the latest Vision 2025 map and pray for each country by name.
• Pray for Jesus to Reveal Himself: In countries where the gospel isn’t welcome, Jesus still shows up and moves — whether through the planting of a local church, gospel-inspired literature or even in dreams and visions! Pray that Jesus would reveal Himself in ways that capture people’s hearts, even if they don’t yet have access to the Scriptures. And ultimately pray that God would open doors for Scripture access in these hard-to-reach areas, knowing that His Word changes everything.
• Pray for Local Churches: The spread of the gospel may appear to be hindered by politics, governments or borders, but God is still doing what only He can do: raising up His Church! As believers share the gospel within their homes, workplaces and neighborhoods, pray that local churches would grow and that God would provide a hedge of protection over all who seek to serve Him in sensitive contexts.
• Pray for the Gospel to Produce Fruit: Isaiah 55:11 says, “It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it” (NLT). Pray this Scripture and others like it, trusting that God will send out His Word into all communities! After all, Revelation 7:9a paints an image of the future that shows us the fruit of that. We simply have the joy and privilege of seeing it become reality here on earth today. “After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb” (NLT).

There’s no doubt about it: Prayer is foundational to the work of Bible translation, and it’s one of the most significant — and perhaps easiest! — investments we can make. Whether you commit to praying for a few minutes every day with our online Wycliffe Prayer Community or participate through intercessory prayer using printed and digital resources like our Global Prayer List, your prayers matter!

The Bible Changes Everything

There are still communities around the world waiting to be reached with the gospel in a language and format they understand. They have yet to experience the transformative power that comes from hearing or seeing Scripture come to life in their language. Some are waiting to receive the first Bible verses ever produced in their language; others are waiting for portions, New Testaments or the full Bible.

Regardless of where these communities are in their journey to receiving all of Scripture, their stories matter! For the millions of men, women and children in these communities, Bible translation doesn’t just open the door for an introduction to Jesus — it flings wide the opportunity to truly encounter Him and understand how much He loves each one of them, personally. The Bible isn’t just words on a page; it’s the very heart of God, spelled out for mankind. And it changes everything!

So will you join us? Will you say “yes” to praying that God would equip and empower His global Church to bring the gospel to the furthest corners of the earth so that all people can encounter Him?

With the psalmist, we declare, “All the nations you made will come and bow before you, Lord; they will praise your holy name. For you are great and perform wonderful deeds. You alone are God” (Psalm 86:9-10, NLT). May we be reminded that God is always on the move, and one day we’ll be part of that vast crowd that’s too great to count, worshipping Him together in all the unique languages that create the beautiful tapestry of His global Church.

Numbers. You either love them or hate them, right?

For some people, numbers bring clarity, structure and unequivocable understanding; for others, it’s like trying to speak a foreign language.

No matter how you feel, numbers are important to our daily lives. They equip us to manage money, follow a recipe, abide by speed limits on the road and more. The crux of the matter is that numbers are essential.

Throughout Scripture, God intentionally uses numbers to convey His purpose and plan for humanity. For example:

• 3 symbolizes the Trinity (God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit), divine completeness and perfection. It also represents resurrection, as Jesus was raised on the third day.
• 7, one of the most frequently used numbers in the Bible, is often associated with completeness and totality. (For an interesting history on the significance of this number, check out this episode from BibleProject!)
• 40 is often associated with periods of trial and testing, such as the Israelites' 40 years in the wilderness or Jesus’ 40 days of fasting.

In the Bible translation movement, there are numbers that we pay attention to as well, including:

• The number of known languages spoken or signed around the world (approximately 7,300!).
• The number of languages that we know still need Bible translation to start for the first time.
• The number of languages with portions of Scripture, a New Testament or the full Bible.

These numbers help direct our efforts and strategies, providing guidelines for how we seek to engage and partner with organizations around the world to see all people have access to all Scripture.

But behind every number is a person who has a story that matters to God, and it’s those stories — those people — that serve as the driving force for our mission: to serve with the global body of Christ to advance Bible translation so people can encounter God through His Word.

A Look at the Numbers Today

Numbers have been a part of Wycliffe’s history from the very beginning. Over time, through improved processes, databases and collaboration with other organizations and local believers on the ground, our understanding of the numbers has grown, fueling the work in new ways. This was certainly the case in 1999. While Wycliffe had always felt a sense of urgency to see Scripture made available for all people, it intensified that year as we took a close look at the numbers. We realized that, at our current pace of language engagement, it would be another 150 years before translation for the last language was started. Not completed — simply started.

Let that sink in for a minute. Think of all the people who would live their entire lives without a single Bible verse in their language. That was simply unacceptable!

So we asked God to give us a new way of approaching the numbers and a fresh vision — a vision that could only be accomplished through His power. That’s when Vision 2025 was established, a God-sized dream to see Bible translation start for every language known to still need it by the end of 2025.

As of July 1, just 686 of these Vision 2025 languages remain on the list. This is the lowest number in human history, and we are within reach of seeing projects started for all these communities!

At a glance, here’s the global breakdown of Vision 2025 progress, by number of countries:

• Achieved Vision 2025: 158
• 1 Remaining Language: 43
• 2–5 Remaining Languages: 24
• 6+ Remaining Languages: 18

If you’re a numbers person — or even someone who has journeyed with the Bible translation movement for any length of time — these numbers are exciting! We are the generation that will see Bible translation start for every language still needing it. Can you imagine?

But maybe you’re not a numbers person. In that case, here is a glimpse into what’s happening within these countries and communities as they prayerfully and collaboratively work toward achieving Vision 2025.

AFRICA

Project Spotlight: Murna | Nigeria

Murna means “joy” in Hausa, a widely spoken language in Nigeria. Through the Murna Cluster project, the hope is that 13 people groups in Nigeria will experience the joy of the Lord through His Word in the languages that best serve them.

This four-year project aims to first engage local churches at the highest possible regional denominational leadership level and then extend to the local level. The goal is to mobilize churches to take ownership of Scripture engagement efforts for their communities and to make informed decisions about whether or not to pursue Bible translation in their language. Of the 13 languages involved in the Murna Cluster project, eight are Vision 2025 languages!

Accelerated Impact in Madagascar and Nigeria

Partnership plays a huge role in Bible translation around the world, and as a result, things are progressing at an unprecedented rate! In Nigeria, the Church is actively starting Bible translation projects to reach the remaining language communities that still need Scripture. Meanwhile, in Madagascar, local college students and church members have completed drafts of four full Bibles in four languages over four years.

Watch the impact of church-led Bible translation across Africa!

THE AMERICAS

Project Spotlight: Descubre | Mexico

More than a dozen communities across Mexico still wait to experience the life-changing message of the Bible in their own languages. The Descubre Mexico project staff are addressing this need by partnering with local churches to guide 20 language communities on a journey of discovery. Together they’ll explore how translated Scripture can deepen the faith of and bring hope to their people.

Through this initiative, facilitators will help local leaders evaluate their translation needs and equip them to take ownership of the process. Teams have already surveyed many communities to discuss their need for Scripture. They’ve also built trust and established best practices for launching translation workshops. Using the insights gained, this next phase will prioritize collaboration and innovation, ensuring every language community has a voice in shaping its future with Scripture.

God’s Faithful Work in Action

In the heart of the Amazon jungle, the Piapocos people longed to understand the whole story of God’s Word. They embraced Jesus, built churches and walked in faith, yet their hunger for a deeper understanding of Scripture remained unfulfilled.

Join Jenniffer Ortiz, a field coordinator from Colombia, on a journey of witnessing God’s divine handiwork firsthand.

EURASIA

Project Spotlight: Pala | Indonesia

The Pala Cluster project will be the foundation for Bible translation efforts in up to 17 languages used in the Maluku Islands of Indonesia. Of these languages, eight are Vision 2025 languages.

The project name is derived from the Indonesian word for nutmeg, pala. Nutmeg originally grew only in the Maluku province of Indonesia, historically known as the “Spice Islands” due to the abundance of cloves and nutmeg. While nutmeg is commonly recognized as a powder today, it actually comes from grinding the seed of the nutmeg tree, which can be cultivated from the seed itself. Nutmeg remains valuable and, at one point, was worth more than gold by weight, owing to the monopoly on the spice trade and the difficulty of accessing the Spice Islands.

In the same way, God’s Word is more valuable than gold. We believe that, over the next two years, the Pala Cluster project will help launch many of the remaining Bible translation needs in the Maluku Islands. As people gain access to God’s Word in their heart language, they will understand its true value, and their lives will be transformed for eternity.

A Milestone in Sign Language Bible Translation

In April 2023, a milestone was reached in sign language Bible translation when more than 170 Deaf leaders representing more than 50 sign languages across 49 countries came together to respond to one central question: “How do we address sign language Bible translation needs across Eurasia and start a translation project in every sign language still needing it within the next three years?”

Read more about this historic moment and how God is empowering sign language translation across Eurasia so that people can encounter Him through Scripture in a language and format they clearly understand!

PACIFIC

Project Spotlight: Wanbel | Papua New Guinea

Did you know that Papua New Guinea is the most linguistically diverse country in the world? The need for Bible translation there is high, but the Wanbel Cluster projects, as part of a collaboration with one of our partners in Papua New Guinea, are helping to meet that need!

The Wanbel Cluster project was first launched in 2022 with a focus on 80 languages. Today, three separate cluster projects derived from this effort are continuing Bible translation in 77 languages across the country with more focused, meaningful support from within each community.

And the momentum is only growing. To meet the overwhelming demand for involvement, BATTLE, Inc., our local partner, is launching a bold plan to equip multiple translation teams within each language who will work simultaneously. In the past, eager volunteers had to be turned away due to team size limits, but now this new parallel approach welcomes that passion and allows for greater community ownership than ever before — and, God willing, allows for Scripture to make it into the hands and hearts of people sooner.

Church-Owned Bible Translation in the Pacific

Across the Pacific region, more than 300 languages still need a Bible translation project to begin. But churches and communities are stepping forward to lead translation efforts in ways we have never seen before.

See how God is raising up Bible translation workers from within churches across the Pacific region!

SIGN LANGUAGE

As of July 1, 2025, there are 77 known sign languages around the world that need Bible translation to begin. Work is ongoing in more than 260 sign languages, and we praise God for that!

Project Spotlight: SLAm! 43 | Americas

Bible translation isn’t just about spoken and written languages; it’s about signed languages too! That’s why the SLAm! 43 Cluster project is so exciting. SLAm (short for Sign Languages America) aims to engage 43 sign languages in 37 countries or territories across North, Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean, to ensure that these Deaf communities have the opportunity to encounter Jesus through Scripture in a way that captures their hearts and transforms their lives forever.

As a result of this project, Vision 2025 will be accomplished in 30 countries and territories throughout the Americas!

Seeing Is Believing

Historically, it’s been believed that only 2% of the global Deaf population have access to any Scripture at all in a language and format they clearly understand, which means millions of Deaf people around the world have yet to get even a glimpse of who Jesus is.

A visual language should have a visual Bible. Learn more about the transformational experience of seeing the love of Jesus come to life through sign language.

Our Estimations, God’s Solution

If you’re a numbers person, you’ve likely done some quick calculations and can tell that, based on where we are in the year and the number of languages still to go, it would take an average of 115 new language starts a month to achieve Vision 2025 by the end of the year. In simple terms, “the math isn’t mathing.”

By human efforts, it’s unlikely that we’ll achieve Vision 2025 by the end of the calendar year. But we’re claiming Paul’s words in Ephesians 3:20-21 when he wrote, “Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen” (NLT, emphasis added).

At the end of the day (or, in this case, the year), we trust that God will see His Word go out into every language, available in every community, so that all people can encounter Him through Scripture in a way that captures their hearts. It is His purpose and plan that all should worship Him, and we will work toward the day that is described in Revelation 7:9a: “After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb” (NLT, emphasis added).

That heavenly scene — a promised, guaranteed future! — will have a crowd of people so significant that we won’t even consider counting. But oh, the stories that will be shared around that throne room, where people worship God in their own language because the gospel came to their community and transformed their lives forever.

We don’t know about you, but that is a future we want to be part of! And so we’ll continue working, making our best human estimations on how to see this promised future become reality here on earth as it’s described in heaven. But ultimately, we know the one who holds the solution to all these numbers, and we’ll trust that He will bring about His purpose in His timing, in His way, for His ultimate glory and the good of His people around the world.

Amador grew up attending church now and then, but the messages never seemed to connect. He didn’t understand the sermons. Eventually he stopped going. What was the point of church if God felt distant and confusing?

Struggling to Belong in a Multilingual Culture

Amador rejected almost everything about his home and culture. As a member of the Wanca Quechua community in Peru, people often made fun of him. Quechua speakers have a hard time pronouncing Spanish words correctly, because they don’t have the same sounds in their language. “It makes us sound stupid,” he said. “We feel like we’re less than the people around us.”

Amador’s mom used to walk him to school, speaking Wanca to him and wearing the traditional dress that pegged her as a Wanca Quechua woman. Amador always ran ahead so other kids wouldn’t know he was with her. “They’d call me bad names — things that would make me feel embarrassed about who I was.”

Have you ever felt like Amador? Have you ever struggled to belong or understand cultural nuances around you?

For Amador, church felt confusing — even alienating — because the message wasn’t in a language that reached his heart. Sadly, he’s not alone. Around the world, millions of people still feel spiritually distant from God because they’ve never experienced Scripture in a language they understand.

That’s why we created Journey 7:9 — a guided email experience where you’ll travel the world through experiencing powerful stories of people who have met God in a way that finally makes sense to them. It’s a glimpse into what can happen when God’s Word truly connects in a language and format that touches your heart.

Start Your Journey →

Understanding the Gospel for the First Time

Several years later Amador visited his parents and reluctantly attended a church service with his dad. But something was different. Instead of preaching in Spanish, as Amador expected, one of the elders was preaching in Wanca Quechua. For the first time, Amador understood the gospel!

“It touched my heart,” he said. “I wanted to accept Christ and begin to serve Him. That man [the elder] was a great encouragement to me. He wanted me to grow, and he discipled me.”

Amador returned to the church and started serving with the youth group. He and other leaders would have regular church meetings in Spanish with people from other communities, and it always seemed that the Quechuas just weren’t getting it. “Around here most people’s faith is so superficial, even though they grow up in church and they’re Christians,” Amador said.

When people became really sick, Christian or not, they’d visit the local shamans to get well. Even Amador’s dad, when he got really sick, snuck away to the shaman despite the stigma. Families also fought a lot, and there was a lot of bitterness and anger in the community. Sometimes the problems were worse among Christian families than anyone else.

“I’d see these practices and think, ‘Why is it that Christians who believe in God are going to shamans and doing things that aren’t biblical?’” Amador said. “‘How is it that we’re serving the Almighty God and yet we have all these internal struggles?’

“I wanted to make sure people had a clear understanding of the Word of God,” he said. “Could it be that we’re not teaching well? Could it be that because we’re Quechuas, we’re just too stupid to really get it?”

Do you know what it’s like to say you believe something but still struggle to live it out?

Have you ever seen people claim to follow God, yet make choices that don’t match His Word?

Receiving God’s Word in Wanca Quechua

One day a man from the Wanca Quechua Bible translation team showed Amador a copy of the Gospel of Mark. It was like a jolt, Amador said. “Oh! Could it make any difference to have it in our own language? It had never occurred to me before, but from that moment I realized that this way people can truly understand, if they hear it in their own language.”

Amador’s eyes were opened to the value of his own culture. “God has given us our language,” he said. “We could use that to share the gospel with our own people, and it would reach so much deeper into our minds and into our hearts.”

He joined the Wanca Bible translation team to help everyone see their culture through God’s eyes and understand His Word.

When Amador discovered that God speaks his language, it changed how he saw himself and his entire community.

That kind of heart-level transformation starts early. Looking for meaningful ways to help kids explore God’s love for every culture and language?

Check out these 3 simple ways to help kids see God’s heart for the world.

“Didn’t God give the same Holy Spirit to all of us?” Amador asked. “The Word of God gives us what we need to realize that we’ve all been created equal before God, and we have just as much value as anyone else. Even if all we speak is Wanca, that’s good enough. God accepts us as we are.

“The Bible is important to me because it’s the way God speaks to us directly — through the letters, through the words,” he continued. “It’s that Word speaking to me that gives us what we need for life, so that we can come to know Christ and know salvation.

“If as Christians we don’t give priority to the Word of God as the main foundation of our beliefs, we’re going to be led astray by different beliefs we might acquire from our own culture. The Bible gives us what we need to be well-grounded.”

God’s Word grounds us and helps us to navigate life. How have you allowed the Bible to shape your choices and actions?

Seeing Transformation in the Community

Having God’s Word in Wanca Quechua made a world of difference in Amador’s community, and especially in his own family. His dad passed away two years ago, but before he died he finally started studying Scripture in his language. He stopped going to the shaman and started seeking God instead.

Even the week before his death, as his health and eyesight deteriorated, he spent hours straining, studying the Bible.

“Only God could have changed my father in that way,” Amador said. “It was because the Word of God was in his own language that it made sense to him.

“I’ve come to realize that teaching, preaching and doing these things in Wanca — it’s a gift the Lord has given me. It’s a gift the Lord has given our people,” he said. “While the Lord gives me breath and strength, I’m committed to teaching the Word of God to our people in our language.”

Passing on the Gift of God’s Word

Imagine trying to grow in your faith without clearly understanding God’s Word. That was the reality many Wanca Quechua speakers — and many more communities around the world — faced for generations.

Amador’s story reminds us that the gospel becomes personal when it’s shared in a language people truly understand. Bible translation isn’t just about words; it’s about transformation.

Today more people are receiving the Good News in their own language than ever before. And lives are changing — one verse, one family, one community at a time.

You don’t have to travel to Peru to be part of what God is doing. Stories like Amador’s are possible because people like you step into God’s mission, helping others encounter Scripture in a way they clearly understand.

When you pray for, give to or share about Bible translation, you help create moments of lasting change — where shame is replaced with dignity and people discover their true worth in Christ.

How will you help more communities experience God’s Word for themselves?

Finding True Blessings on the Other Side of Suffering

Mourning is an inevitable part of life. Whether young, old, rich or poor, none of us can escape the pain of suffering and loss.

Jesus Himself, the “man of sorrows,” was grieved by many things on earth. In His Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), He challenged our notions of grief. Not only is mourning to be expected, but as believers, when we mourn we are blessed.

That can be tough to accept. When we’re mourning the loss of a loved one, grieving our own sinfulness or suffering deeply for the sake of God’s Kingdom, it’s hard to see past our pain. Sometimes we need an example of someone who, as Isaiah prophesied about Jesus, moved past suffering to “… see the light of life and be satisfied” (Isaiah 53:11, NIV).

A Life Marked by Trials — And God’s Calling

Pastor Bennett Marona has had countless reasons to mourn. As a South Sudanese man working in ministry, he knows what it means to persevere through trials and suffering.

As the world’s youngest country, South Sudan had a tumultuous start. It was born in 2011 out of one of the longest civil conflicts in recorded history. This is where Pastor Bennett calls home.

Fleeing With a Purpose

Bennett speaks Baka, a language used by about 26,000 people. He got started in Bible translation in 1992, the same year Wycliffe linguists Doug and Anne Sampson joined the Baka New Testament translation project.

The Baka project had actually begun years earlier with Wycliffe missionaries Kirk and Carla Parker doing literacy and translation work. Previously, Baka had never been written. But the project stalled due to increasing instability caused by Sudan’s civil unrest. The Parkers returned home, and thousands of Sudanese, including Bennett’s family and the Baka community, were forced to evacuate to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

“My family and I, we walked for seven days, walking day and night, day and night,” he said. “There was no food; many children died on the way because of thirst and hunger.”

Then one night, about halfway to the DRC, while they were sleeping hidden outside, Bennett heard gunshots. As the crowd fled in panic, he heard a voice directing him to take a different route — a route that saved his life.

Later he learned that hundreds of those who’d gone the opposite way had run directly into an ambush and been killed.

Again and again, God led Bennett through the rest of the journey this way. “Whatever direction I thought of going, we’d go there safely,” he said.

Eventually, Bennett’s family settled into a refugee camp near Dungu, where the Sampsons were living. Bennett stayed in town to continue working on Baka literacy and the New Testament translation with Doug.

Risking Everything to Bring the Bible to the Baka People

Before long, chaos erupted again. Local soldiers, angry over unpaid wages, decided to loot the town and started shooting in the market near the translation office.

Bennett and Doug ran back to meet Anne at the Sampsons’ home. They just managed to hide the translation work and equipment through a loose panel in their ceiling before the soldiers arrived at their door. The soldiers shot a hole through the roof of their veranda, demanding that the Sampsons open up.

Doug and Anne moved into the refugee camp with Bennett and the other Baka refugees shortly after that, hoping it would be safer. But one night more soldiers crept into the refugee camp.

“When the shooting started, Pastor Bennett and some other guys, without even thinking, grabbed their bows and arrows and came running to our compound to protect us,” Anne said. “They were willing to risk their lives for us. That really touched us.”

Protected for a Purpose

At one point when the conflict made it impossible for the Sampsons to remain in the refugee camp, Bennett and a fellow Baka rode bicycles for 200 miles to meet with them at a safer location in Uganda.

Then one day, armed soldiers kidnapped Bennett from the translation office in the DRC. He was one of nine people held captive. Each night, the soldiers killed one of the prisoners. Bennett awaited his own fate until he was the only prisoner left.

“One of the soldiers said, ‘Pastor, come. The commanders are calling you,’” Bennett remembered. “I thought, ‘They’re going to kill me … just like they killed the others.’” But with no explanation, the soldiers let him go.

“It’s hard for me to know why I was not killed,” he said. “Truly, God chose me to be a translator.”

Bennett saw his survival as God’s confirmation of his calling:

“Bringing the Word of God to my people is more important to me than all other things. I want them to hear God’s voice with their own ears. All the time I prayed, ‘God, speed this work so that they have a Bible and read Your words, so that they go to heaven when the time comes for them.’”

Facing trial after trial, Bennett demonstrated his commitment to the task God called him to complete, his dedication to the Sampsons and his willingness to sacrifice his life for their shared mission.

Bennett’s journey shows what trust looks like when fear could easily take over.

If you’ve ever wrestled with what faith looks like in the face of fear — especially when life feels uncertain — this reflection explores what God offers us when we let go of fear and cling to His promises.

Instead of Fear: What God Gives When You Let Go of Fear

A 30-Year Prayer Answered: The Baka New Testament Celebration

Finally in March 2017, Bennett’s prayer for the Bakas was answered. After more than 30 years of perseverance, thousands of Baka speakers came together to dance, sing and experience the Word of God in their language at the Baka New Testament dedication.

“Now that the whole New Testament is out, thousands of Bakas are going to say, ‘Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!’” he said. “I see every Baka community member as my biological child. I love them.”

His favorite part of the day was when the boxes of New Testaments were opened, and hundreds of his fellow Bakas rushed forward to get their copies.

“At that time, I forgot all the challenges I went through,” he said.

In that moment, the decades of labor and hardship bore fruit. The Baka New Testament — once only a dream — was now real, read aloud, sung and held close by the people it was meant for. Bible translation had done more than preserve a language; it had planted a legacy of faith.

A Blessing in Mourning

Would you say that Bennett is blessed? He and the Baka community have certainly done more than their fair share of mourning: witnessing violence, being forced to evacuate from one country to the next and losing every worldly possession in the process.

Yet through all of it, God’s Word was their hope.

“Whenever I sit at the desk to do translation, it’s like I’m sitting with God at the same desk; we are facing one another,” Bennett said. “There’s really no benefit like what I get from translation.”

God’s Word tells us to count it joy when we face trials, because this produces steadfastness (James 1:2). Bennett’s relationship with the Lord grew deeper because he has remained steadfast in Bible translation.

Want to Go Deeper Into This Story?

Watch the full 10-minute video about Rev. Bennett Marona and the Baka community — from fleeing unrest to the celebration of God’s Word.

It’s a powerful reminder of how joy can rise from even the deepest suffering.

Watch the full journey to the gospel in Baka.

We all want our lives to count for something — to make a difference. God wired into our souls the desire to leave a legacy. As believers, we understand that longing is rooted in the fact that God made us to live in light of eternity.

There are two things that will last forever: God’s Word and people. When these two intersect, lives are changed forever! That’s exactly what’s happening as the gospel goes out into the furthest corners of the Earth and people encounter God through Scripture in their own language.

Why We Say Yes

The decisions we make today don’t just have an impact now — they have an impact for all eternity. Check out these stories from Wycliffe partners about why they said yes to God’s invitation to advance His Kingdom through Bible translation!

Family Values of Biblical Generosity

When Michael and Jamie Higdon first became parents, they were challenged to identify traits that they’d pray over their son, believing that with the Lord’s help, he would become fully who God created him to be. They went through that same exercise two years later when they were expecting their daughter. This time, they also decided to create family values that would shape the way they made decisions moving forward.

The Higdon family talks about these values a lot. The values provide guardrails for life’s big decisions and help the family members explain what they do, what they don’t do and why.

Over the years, Michael and Jamie have felt the Lord challenge them to say bigger yeses. Some of those decisions have been harder than others, but in those moments when fear and doubt have crept in, they have consistently returned to their core values.

“They inform our yeses and our nos. Our strategic nos position us to respond to what we truly feel like the Lord is inviting us to say yes to,” Jamie shared. “We consistently ask ourselves, ‘How can we position ourselves to say yes to the things that we truly feel called to step into?’”

One thing He has called them to is supporting Bible translation. “Bible translation has become an integral part of our family’s financial discipline,” Jamie said. Their family partners with a Bible translation project in northwest Tanzania and, as a result, their vision for the world has been enlarged.

Jamie noted: “God has cultivated our longing to one day know that boys and girls just like our son and daughter will be able to read about the life-giving, life-changing story of Jesus in their [language].”

“We long to live openhanded lives,” she continued. “We long to see God work through us to fulfill what He’s already promised He will accomplish. His Kingdom come, His will be done. Biblical generosity reminds us that our time, talents and treasures [are] all His! And for whatever reason, He’s entrusted [them] to our care. We, as a family, have the tremendous privilege of joining Him in the work that He’s already begun and will be faithful to complete: every man, woman and child knowing beyond a shadow of a doubt that God speaks their language.

“Why does our family say yes to joining God’s global mission through Bible translation? We’re convinced the better question is, ‘How could we say no?’”

The Impact of a Toast

Larry Cheng — Wycliffe donor and former board chair — was born to Chinese parents, who immigrated to the U.S. from Taiwan. As was typical in the Chinese immigrant community at that time, parents wanted their children to stay immersed in the culture. Larry’s family had big weekly dinners with other migrant Chinese families. The name of the dinner, when translated into English, was “big eat meeting.” He also went to Chinese school as a young child to learn the language and culture.

As he grew up, Larry’s friendships expanded beyond the Chinese community. That’s when he became best friends with his neighbor Everett. The two of them carpooled to school together, took all the same classes, participated in the same sports and experienced all aspects of life together. There was just one problem: Everett always felt a sense of distance from Larry’s parents, who didn’t fully embrace him since he wasn’t Chinese.

Everett ended up studying East Asian studies in college. He went to Taiwan to study abroad and vowed to not speak a single word of English while doing an intensive Chinese language program there. He then graduated and went on to work for a multinational oil and gas company, for which he traveled from New York to Taiwan and China every few weeks for three years.

Everett learned to negotiate business contracts and deals in Chinese. He became so fluent that he continued a study program in joint international relations and business to study Chinese even more intensively.

Around this time, Larry married his now wife, Joanne. He asked Everett to be a groomsman and give a toast at the wedding reception. The reception was filled with extended family who were mostly native Chinese speakers with varying levels of fluency in English.

When Everett stood up to give his toast, he gave it in Chinese — the language of the people he was surrounded by. The crowd erupted in joy, clapping and cheering. Larry had never seen a group of Chinese people erupt with such enthusiasm!

It was an amazing moment. A simple wedding toast managed to bridge a gap that, for years, had gone unbridged. But Larry understood it at once — “He did that by speaking their language.”

The same is true for the Good News, Larry noted: “When you translate the Word of God into a language, generation upon generation upon generation will benefit.”

That’s why Larry is so passionate about Bible translation. He believes all people should have the opportunity to erupt in overwhelming joy after encountering the Good News of Jesus in their language.

A Church’s Heart for Thailand

Casa del Alfarero (CDA), meaning “The Potter’s House,” is a Hispanic church in Orlando, Florida. During conversation with members of Wycliffe’s Church Relations team, the church’s heart for Thailand became evident.

CDA had previously set aside $20,000 to open a coffee shop in Thailand, but the project wasn’t moving forward. In prayer, they asked God what could be done with the funds. It was then that they learned about the Thai Sign Language project — an opportunity they felt God wanted them to invest in.

The remaining need for the project was $40,000. Through the Bread of Life Church Match — a matching gift program for churches that give to Bible translation for the first time — their gift was matched, dollar for dollar.

We praise God for this opportunity and are excited to see what God is going to do — not only through the generosity of CDA but also through the lives that will be impacted in the Thai Deaf community as they gain access to Scripture in their language.

Living in Light of God’s Promise: Your Next Step

What are you passionate about? What excites you so much that you want to tell anyone and everyone about it? What causes you to erupt with joy? What motivates you to live your life on purpose, with purpose?

As His Church, we are called to make disciples of all nations, with each one of us playing our unique role. Whether you have the gift of intercessory prayer, biblical generosity or contagious advocacy, live it out with a passionate sense of purpose, knowing that, through your decisions today, you get to participate in impacting eternity!

Not sure where to start? Here are four simple ways to get started:

• Pray. Link arms with the global Church and pray for active Bible translation projects around the world through the online Wycliffe Prayer Community. Or if you prefer to go analog, download and print the Global Prayer List, updated on a monthly basis with timely requests from partners around the world.

>> Whose answer to prayer are you?

• Give. As we look forward to the day when all communities have Scripture, you have the opportunity to participate through your giving! Together, we want to be “all in” — whether that means supporting the start of translation in a language for the very first time or ensuring that the work continues to completion rather than halting due to a lack of funding.

>> Whose life will change because you gave out of a heart of biblical stewardship and generosity?

• Advocate in Your Community. As God raises up His Church around the globe, He’s inviting each one of us to be involved in this moment. You can be a part of inviting your community — your family, friends, Bible study group, church and others — to join in this transformational work.

>> What communities will be transformed — both locally and globally — because you encouraged partnership?

• Join the Movement. Feeling called to serve with your time and talents? You can be a part of God’s mission through serving in Bible translation, whether the role is full- or part-time, remote or in person, overseas or based in the U.S., volunteer or career.

>> What talents and skills can you contribute to God’s mission for eternal impact?

The Great Commission needs all of us, and as the body of Christ we have the privilege of joining hands in a united “yes”!

With every yes, fewer people are left without Scripture, and more men, women and children are invited to encounter Jesus personally and be transformed. What story is God writing in your life today? It’s a story that not only intersects with His but also with the stories of those you’ll one day worship beside in His presence.

Something powerful happens when we are surrounded by familiar words in our own language. Whether it’s a lullaby, a blessing or a heartfelt conversation, language connects us — not just to one another but to who we are and our culture.

For communities around the world, Scripture in their language brings that same sense of connection — offering clarity, comfort and the opportunity to engage deeply with God’s Word. It’s a milestone worth celebrating when a people group finally receives the Bible in a language that directly impacts their hearts.

A Day of Celebration in the Buamu Laa Community

On Dec. 14, 2024, the Buamu Laa community gathered in Bagassi, which is in southern Burkina Faso, for a long-anticipated celebration. The dedication of the New Testament in their own language was the culmination of years of faithful work and deep longing.

More than 2,000 people came together for the occasion. The ceremony brought together a wide cross section of the community — pastors, church leaders, political figures, traditional authorities and everyday people, both Christians and non-Christians. But the heart of the event wasn’t in the dignitaries who attended or even the speeches: It was in the unity of the Buamu Laa people. Their shared joy and realization that they could now read and listen to the Word of God in a language they fully understand was evident and powerful.

“The Word of God written in a foreign language and correctly interpreted for a people brings salvation to [the Buamu Laa],” shared Deacon Gnoumou. “ … [To] have the Word of God written in the native language of [the Buamu Laa] is extraordinary.”

Another woman expressed her delight simply and clearly:

15 Years of Faithful Work: How a Bible Translation Comes to Life

Bible translation doesn’t happen overnight. It’s not the work of one person or even just a small team. Much like building a house or composing a symphony, it requires a variety of people with different skills, all working together toward a common goal — to bring God’s Word to life in a new language.

That process officially began for the Buamu Laa New Testament in 2007. Over the next 15 years, the project unfolded little by little. A dedicated core team — made up of a project leader and two translators — worked full-time throughout the life of the project. But they weren’t alone. Around 20 additional people served as revisers and proofreaders, ensuring that the translation was both accurate and natural.

Translating Scripture is more than just substituting words from one language into another. It takes a deep understanding — of theology, culture and grammar — to faithfully convey the meaning of each verse. That’s why community involvement is so vital in the translation project. Local Buamu Laa speakers, pastors and church members provided feedback along the way, reviewing the drafts, asking questions and offering insights that helped shape the final text.

Each person involved played a unique and important role — from translators and revisers to community reviewers and partners. Scripture reminds us that the body of Christ is made up of many parts working together (1 Corinthians 12). The Buamu Laa New Testament translation project is an example of this, as many people with different skill sets and contributions faithfully came together to help bring God’s Word to their community.

The final typesetting session for the New Testament was completed in June 2022. When the first printed copies arrived, they represented far more than just pages and ink: They were the fruit of prayer, persistence and partnership — a testament to what God can do when His people work together.

A Lasting Legacy for the Buamu Laa People

The dedication wasn’t the end of a translation project — it was the beginning of a new chapter for the Buamu Laa people. With the New Testament now in their hands, they can engage with God’s Word more personally and deeply than ever before. Rev. Pastor Henri Ye shared:

As the community reads and listens to the New Testament, deepening their faith, the desire for a complete Bible continues to grow. This is the impact of Bible translation — and it continues to accelerate around the world today.

We celebrate this milestone with the Buamu Laa people with gratitude, knowing this celebration reflects years of faithful service, prayer and partnership from people around the world. And we look ahead with hope, trusting that God will continue the good work He has begun:

“And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns” (Philippians 1:6, NLT).

May we be people who not only rejoice in what God has already done but who continue to pray, give and advocate so that more communities around the world can experience the life-changing power of Scripture in their language.

What if your generosity could change a life? A family? An entire community?

You’ve likely heard of the concept “pay it forward” — an act of intentional generosity that is often a surprise to the recipient and results in a chain reaction of generosity. We see stories go viral on social media such as:

• In a Tim Hortons coffee shop in Canada, one customer paid for the coffee of the person behind them in the drive-thru. That single act of kindness set off a chain reaction that resulted in more than 200 customers paying it forward to the next person in line.
• At a Denny’s in Texas, a single diner secretly paid for the meals of a struggling family. When the family realized what had happened, they later returned to the restaurant and paid for another family’s meal, continuing the cycle of generosity.
• A waitress once received a $100 tip on a small bill from a grateful customer. She used that money to tip another struggling worker generously. That person, inspired by the kindness, donated to a local food pantry. The cycle continued, spreading kindness throughout the community.

These are just a few examples. Perhaps you’ve personally been part of a pay-it-forward chain of generosity! There’s something encouraging and inspiring about seeing people intentionally seek to make a difference — no matter how big or small — in others’ lives. And as believers in Jesus, we have a call to give generously out of what He’s given us — the greatest pay it forward of all time! (See 2 Corinthians 9 for some of Paul’s thoughts on this topic.)

The Generosity of a Young Child

The journey to the Isnag Bible began 66 years before their completed Scripture was celebrated by the community in June 2023. Throughout the decades of translation work, individuals and churches partnered with the Isnag to see the work funded.

Nard Pugyao is an Isnag believer who first heard about Christ as a young boy because of that work. He later joined Wycliffe and became a missionary pilot and strong advocate in the U.S. for his community back in the northern part of the Philippines.

When it was time for the translated Bible to be printed, Nard was working to raise $87,000 to print 5,000 copies — approximately $18 per book. A Good News Club in Georgia had learned about his story and invited him to speak. He shared about how the full Isnag Bible was finally complete!

While there, a 5-year-old girl named Kori came up to Nard and gave him a small plastic bag full of coins. It was so heavy that she could barely hold it! He asked her where she’d gotten the coins.

That’s when Kori told Nard that every Christmas, her grandfather chooses one grandchild to give a year’s worth of loose change to. And this year, it was Kori’s turn! But Kori didn’t want to keep it for herself — she wanted to give it to help print the Isnag Bible so people could learn about Jesus, just like she had. In that moment, Kori gave it all — $42 in loose change. Her extravagant generosity helped bring the Word of God to the Isnag community.

When Nard arrived in Manila, Philippines, and got his first copy of the Isnag Bible, he lifted it up and thought of young Kori. “This was the Bible she bought with her $42,” Nard remembers. “At that moment, I thought of all the people who gave so much to us Isnags, from the young like Kori to the old like those who supported the Isnag translation since 1954! God has used all kinds of people from all walks of life to bring His Word to us Isnags, because the Word of God endures forever.”

From Papua New Guinea to Kenya

In fall 2024, Andy Keener went to visit a remote village in Papua New Guinea where there is an active Bible translation project, along with several other Wycliffe staff. From this village of roughly 400 people, it is an eight-hour hike to the nearest road, followed by an eight-hour drive to the nearest market town. There’s no space for an airstrip, but you can reach an airstrip after five hours of hiking. Or you can take a short helicopter ride, which is how Andy and the team arrived.

Once there, they were greeted by people who were celebrating — not because their Bible is complete (there’s still a lot of work to be done) but because they were so excited for these visitors to arrive!

The community is made up of subsistence farmers and hunters living primarily off the land. They grow coffee beans, and when additional supplies are needed, like a new machete, they take the eight-hour hike and eight-hour drive down to the market town. There, they sell the coffee beans in exchange for needed supplies and return home with any additional cash.

During Andy’s visit, this small community presented the team with a gift as a way of thanking Wycliffe USA for investing in them by sending a missionary to translate the Bible with them.

They didn’t give out of their abundance; they gave all that they had — a gift that equated to $100. What do you do with a gift from a community that is actively working to receive Scripture for themselves? You pay it forward! That $100 gift was allocated to a Bible translation project in Kenya for the Nuru community, who now has received the blessing of partnership from a small community in Papua New Guinea.

The Generosity Chain Continues

Andy shared this story at a Wycliffe USA event, where Nard happened to be a fellow presenter. After hearing it, Nard and the Isnag people decided that they, too, wanted to pay it forward. So they donated $2,000 from the Isnag Ministries Foundation to the translation work for another language community that will also one day receive the whole Bible in the language and format they clearly understand, transforming lives forever. The chain of generosity continues!

The chain connects to individual like-minded believers like you, too! When we step out in faith-filled obedience and generously give our time, talents and treasure that God has given us, there is a ripple effect. Sometimes, we get to see or hear the impact firsthand. Other times, we may never know the lives that were changed because of how we said “yes” to the promptings of the Holy Spirit.

But one thing is true: One day we’ll be in heaven, gathered around God’s throne, and we’ll be surrounded by brothers and sisters from every nation and language. Imagine the stories that will be told, the encounters that will happen between people who are able to share how God used one person — one obedient, generous yes — to change the trajectory of a person’s life forever.

It’s not just about paying it forward here on earth, where our treasures can be destroyed or stolen. It’s about paying it forward for all eternity, trusting that where our treasures are, there our hearts will be also (see Matthew 6:19).

So what about you? What act of generosity can you say yes to that could start a chain that continues from one person to the next? Together we have the joy and privilege of knowing that God will use whatever we have — whether big or small — to accomplish His purposes for His ultimate glory!

Sometimes God’s plan for our lives unfolds in unexpected ways. We may think our skills aren’t enough or our season of usefulness has passed. But God has a way of working through every “yes” — even when we whisper it with uncertainty.

Cecilia Legani discovered this on a journey that took her across oceans and then back home with a passion for her people to know God’s Word. Now she’s helping lead a local Bible translation effort for her childhood language in the Solomon Islands.

A Calling That Crossed Oceans

Cecilia’s story began in Honiara, the capital of the Solomon Islands. As a young woman, she dropped out of school due to social challenges and stayed home caring for her maternal and paternal grandmothers. Then one day at church, a woman invited Cecilia to a girls’ training center. “That’s where I [discovered] my vocation as a missionary,” Cecilia said.

Cecilia felt called to join the Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary, an international congregation of Catholic women dedicated to sharing the gospel and serving in the spirit of Mary. There, Cecilia discovered a passion for ministry and helping others. This opportunity propelled her into serving in New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Kiribati and Australia; she eventually served in Peru and Colombia too.

For over 20 years, Cecilia ministered to the poor, led programs for youth and families and helped launch a soup kitchen. She grew in her understanding of God’s Word while she worked with people in challenging circumstances, recognizing the need for people to have hope and experience transformation from the inside out.

While in Colombia, Cecilia studied the Bible, learning Spanish, Greek and Hebrew. But in the midst of that fruitful work, a question from her professor changed her perspective on languages. The professor asked, “Cecilia, how do you pray?” She realized the impact of a person talking to God in their own language. This revealed a need that extended beyond herself: Her own people back in the Solomon Islands didn’t have Scripture in their language.

A New Mission for Her People

Returning to the Solomon Islands wasn’t Cecilia’s original plan, but when visa challenges kept her from going back to Colombia, she realized God was opening a new door for her. On New Year’s morning, she prayed a simple prayer:

This led to a new vision for her life: the dream of equipping people in her home country with God’s Word. She shared this with one of her ministry sisters, saying, “I want to go back to the Solomons and to translate the Good News into [the local] language.”

When Cecilia met with the bishop, she shared what had been stirring in her heart: “I want to translate the Good News to them, for my people at home.” She explained how many in her community speak Dari and Gela — two languages used on Guadalcanal, her island in the Solomon Islands — but don’t yet engage with Scripture in those languages. “That’s why we have a lot of problems,” Cecilia shared. “People don’t understand the Word of God.”

Though some translations exist, she explained they have not been widely used. They could use Pidgin, but it is less personal; it’s not the same as encountering God through Scripture in their own languages. The bishop encouraged Cecilia to meet with the local Bible translation team and gave her a contact to get started.

Cecilia followed through, and that step opened the door to everything that followed. When Cecilia met with the Bible translation team, one woman recognized what God had been orchestrating and said, “Cecilia, we didn’t know that God was working in preparing somebody in another part of the world, in South America.” God was at work behind the scenes, preparing Cecilia to serve her community through Bible translation.

Cecilia returned to the Solomon Islands passionate and ready — not just equipped with training but with a heart to care for her people and serve with the local church.

A Ministry for the People

From the start, Cecilia knew Bible translation couldn’t be a work that was hers alone — it had to be done in community. She believes deeply that Bible translation must be part of the global Church’s mission: “[Bible translation is] very important because it’s [for] the people. We belong to the Church, and the Church has to go out there with it.” She believes that in order for people to be transformed in the way they live — spiritually and physically, on the inside and outside — they need God’s Word.

Cecilia believes the Bible shouldn’t be something just a few people use; it is something that everyone in the community shares. The local church must lead the way with men, women and children working together to bring Scripture to life for their people. Cecilia’s experiences demonstrated to her that the ministry of Bible translation has to involve the entire community.

Cecilia and her team, which includes local churches and community leaders, have helped translate key parts of Scripture like the Gospel of Luke as well as the biblical stories about Pentecost, Holy Week and Christ’s birth. They record the passages and bring them to villages, where people listen and offer feedback. If the community approves the draft, the translation team moves on to the next chapter.

Cecilia has seen how her people rally behind the vision of translating the whole Bible. The community supports the work in a variety of ways — sometimes that involves giving money, and other times it involves providing meals and extending hospitality when the team visits. God is at work in the community as Cecilia and the team work to get God’s Word translated into their language.

A Culture of Storytelling and a Future of Innovation

Cecilia and her team use oral Bible translation methods, an approach that resonates with the community’s deep tradition of storytelling. When Cecilia shares Scripture, she doesn’t just read it; she tells it like a story. She said sharing Bible stories starting with something like, “One day Jesus told me …” connects more deeply with people than simply reading from a book.

This oral Bible translation approach has already brought people together across denominations and islands in the country. New technology is helping people reach their communities in faster, more innovative ways than ever before.

“I didn’t know anything about translation work,” she said. “But because I went to study, I know what to do.” Now she’s seeing the hope reach her community like never before. “We [the local church] want to see transformation in the [lives] of the people … spiritually and physically. … Not only some [people] but everybody.”

Her prayer is simple but powerful: “I want this Bible translation to happen.” Cecilia’s story is a picture of the ripple effects of God’s Word. Cecilia was transformed by Scripture, and now she is working to share its light and hope with her community!

Through the collaboration of people just like Cecilia, Scripture is touching the hearts of people in the Solomon Islands. When you or your church partner with the work of Bible translation, you join something global and eternal: helping equip communities to access Scripture in a language they clearly understand. This mission belongs to all of us.

Are you ready to help the next person like Cecilia say “yes” to God’s call?

Colorful plastic Easter eggs, filled with candy or change, are often a staple among kids who celebrate Easter in the U.S.

In 2024, a small congregation in Littleton, Colorado, turned a simple Easter egg hunt into a hands-on invitation for kids to take part in God’s global mission through Bible translation.

Preparing for Easter in Unique Ways

In the months leading up to Easter, Calvary West Littleton church built momentum around the importance of Bible translation, tying it into their preaching and missional focus.

“We were teaching on missions at the time, in the Book of Matthew,” Pastor Blake Burget shared. “And so we wanted to give our people the opportunity to invest in missions in a really tangible way and Bible translation in particular. So we said, ‘Hey, we are going to give to Wycliffe as a community.’”

The church highlighted stories and videos about Bible translation in order to help everyone learn more about why Bible translation matters. Every week, they reminded the congregation that any designated missions giving would go entirely to Bible translation. They even added fun activities and encouraged families to participate together.

“We let people know there were going to be fun competitions along the way, where people got to choose where some of the funds went,” Blake said. “We were kind of building it up. … Every week for about two months we said, ‘We are contributing any funds that are designated for missions — 100% of that [would] go to Bible translation. And some of you will get to choose where the funds go.’”

The congregation embraced the opportunity to give generously to Bible translation, even giving above and beyond expectations! Pastor Blake shared:

The enthusiasm wasn’t limited to the adults in the congregation; even the kids were excited to be involved and give. Blake added, “It’s one thing to talk about [Bible translation] in sermons or during Sunday school, but then to have the kids participate in a tangible way was really sweet. Some kids actually gave some of their own money to the translation work.”

An Egg Hunt With Eternal Impact

After raising funds as a church to support Bible translation, the congregation set aside a portion of the money to be distributed according to the wishes of the youngest people in the church. They did this through a fun twist in the Easter egg hunt: Among the regular eggs, the congregation filled 10 with chocolate lambs.

Blake reflected on this unique Easter activity and shared, “We let the kids know, ‘Hey, if you find a chocolate lamb in your Easter egg, that represents $100 of the Wycliffe giving, and you get to decide which project it goes to.’”

The kids, who ranged from ages 2 to 10, searched eagerly throughout the playground. One boy — a neighbor of Blake’s family — found not one but three chocolate lambs! The boy’s family doesn’t attend church, but the egg hunt created a chance for conversation, making it possible for Blake and his family to share the gospel with their young neighbor and his parents. They explored Wycliffe’s website, looked through translation projects and had a meaningful conversation about why sharing God’s Word matters.

The impact of the egg hunt activity stretched far beyond that morning. It became a fun, hands-on way for kids and families to engage with God’s Word and understand how they could help others around the world experience the power of Scripture too.

A Greater Passion for Global Missions

As the months rolled on, the church’s passion for Bible translation and missions only grew. Later in the fall, their missions committee met to prayerfully finalize how to distribute the remaining Wycliffe mission funds.

They collaborated with Wycliffe to help identify Bible translation projects in need, including Ukrainian Sign Language, which meant a lot to a family in the church with ties to Ukraine. The church leadership included the congregation in selecting the projects: “We had someone from Wycliffe come and share one Sunday, and people got to talk with her after service,” Blake said. “She was able to give us some suggestions of various projects going on.” They chose to support a handful of Bible translation projects — some featured online and others that were in sensitive areas of the world.

The impact of their giving went beyond finances; it prompted spiritual growth and generational involvement within the church and in the community. Blake said:

Blake’s own children were a clear example of how interest in Bible translation grew over the course of the year. “My four daughters … wanted to make sure we gave to Wycliffe,” he said. “So [as a family at Christmastime] we went on the website, and they got to choose a couple projects [to support].”

This small church in Colorado did more than host a fun Easter event: They sparked a culture of joyful giving and missions-minded discipleship that helped support Bible translation projects around the world. And they involved every generation in this process!

A Challenge to Churches: “Just Start”

How could you build a deeper heart for missions in your church community?

You don’t need to replicate what Calvary West Littleton did; just think about what would engage your church family in a meaningful way. Speaking on behalf of his church, Blake shared, “We are passionate about Bible translation at the church, and we see it as essential for missions [and] the mission of God.” He continued:

We all have the chance to be part of this calling to make disciples and share the Good News through Bible translation. “There’s not a right or wrong way [to get involved],” Blake said. “Make it fun, invite kids to be part of the conversation — they might surprise you. Kids are great givers.”

There is long-term value for the global Church when they participate in the work of Bible translation. “God’s Word is the most powerful evangelist. … If you care about missions, and if you care about the longevity of missions and evangelism in the church, then you should care about Bible translation,” Blake explained.

There’s no better time to get involved than now! The number of languages waiting for Bible translation to start for the first time is dropping. “The urgency is there,” Blake added. “The ability to participate in this venture is not going to be around forever. If you want to invest in one of the most significant aspects of missions, you should be involved in Bible translation.”

Calvary West Littleton is proof that you don’t need a big church to make a big difference.

Their faithful stewardship and creativity remind us that even a few chocolate lambs can help bring the Lamb of God to those waiting to meet Him in their language!

What we feared when we were children is likely pretty different from our fears and concerns as adults. Chances are, a lot of what scared us as kids was irrational: monsters under the bed, hot lava on the living room floor and quicksand that could be anywhere.

While you’ve likely outgrown some silly and imaginary fears, other fears based on trauma or difficult experiences can linger. In a broken world where sin affects everything, the potential for fear is all around us.

When we look to the Bible — God’s Word that lights our paths — we find comfort and guidance. Our loving heavenly Father provides us with ways to exchange fear for something so much better: true faith in Him.

But what if you didn’t have Scripture in your language to turn to in difficult times? How would you combat fear with faith? For millions of people around the world, this is their reality: They are waiting to know God, His love and His plans for them in their own language.

As you read through the following Scripture passages, let yourself be encouraged about trusting God and relying on His strength. And also discover why it’s so important for people to have the Bible in their own language — so it can transform hearts, lives and even entire communities from the inside out.

Instead of Fear, God Gives His Presence

“This is my command — be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9 (NLT)

In Joshua 1, God chose Joshua to replace Moses as leader of God’s people. Not only was he the new leader of the Hebrew nation, but he was also being tasked with an impossible mission — take possession of a land full of strong, gigantic enemies.

To say he had some fears was an understatement. But in exchange for that fear, Joshua was going to gain something far stronger: The Almighty God was promising to go with him, to have his back, everywhere he went.

The same God is still at work in people’s hearts and lives today, guiding them through difficult circumstances. This is especially true in the Bible translation movement; there are often areas of the world where people face persecution and trials for following God and translating His Word.

But God is at work, drawing people to Himself and transforming them through His life-giving Word.

Trusting God’s Presence: Pastor Bennett’s Story

Pastor Bennett Marona has had countless reasons to mourn. As a South Sudanese man working in ministry, he knows what it means to persevere through trials and suffering.

“I was almost killed, but God saved my life,” he said. “I think it was God’s plan, not just that I remain alive but that I complete this huge work that he set in front of me.” Bennett continued, “Our people have been longing to see the Word of God in our language. We went through a lot of different challenges.”

Bennett speaks Baka, a minority language used by about 26,000 people. He got started in Bible translation in 1992, the same year that two Wycliffe linguists joined the Baka New Testament translation project. The Baka project had actually begun years earlier but stalled due to increasing instability caused by South Sudan’s civil unrest. Thousands of South Sudanese, including Bennett’s family and the Baka community, were forced to evacuate to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

One night about halfway to the DRC, while they were sleeping, they heard gunshots. The crowds leapt up and ran, but Bennett heard a voice speak directly to him, telling him to take a different route. Later he learned that hundreds of those who’d gone the opposite way had run directly into an ambush, and they were killed.

God led Bennett through the rest of the journey this way. “Whatever direction I thought of going, we’d go there safely,” he said.

His family eventually settled into a refugee camp in the DRC, but the trials and struggles remained. Pastor Bennett was even held captive during his time there. He said:

He continued: “All the time I prayed, ‘God, speed this work so that they have a Bible and read Your words, so that they go to heaven when the time comes for them.’”

Thus the work of Bible translation continued until thousands of Baka speakers in South Sudan rejoiced when, after 30 years of perseverance, they received the whole New Testament in Baka!

When people have the Word of God in their own language, they are able to persevere through difficulties and trials, relying on God’s promises and His presence. Pastor Bennett explained the power of Bible translation and his relationship with God this way:

Instead of Fear, God Calls Us to Pray

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” — John 14:27 (NIV)

Before Jesus was betrayed, arrested and ultimately crucified, He spent time giving His disciples instructions and reassurances. He knew that in the days to come, they would face doubts and uncertainties.

In the midst of their fear, one of Jesus’ promises to His disciples was that God would send them the Holy Spirit as their helper and guide: “But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative — that is, the Holy Spirit — he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you” (John 14:26, NLT).

The same Holy Spirit is still at work today, guiding us through our problems and trials. Those struggles can feel overwhelming at times, especially when so many difficulties seem to be all around us. Plus we have access to an overwhelming amount of news and information about the many issues and needs of our day — and sometimes that overload incites fear and anxiety. So as believers, what are we to do when the weight of this world seems to pummel us on all sides? We pray.

Through the power of prayer, we can replace worry and anxiety with God’s awesome, unexplainable peace.

Praying and Worshipping Shape Our Faith

Scripture gives us straightforward instructions on what to do in the midst of our fear and anxiety: “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7, NLT).

Here are a few practical ways that you can refocus your heart and mind on prayer:

1. Pray through the news. Being so connected to events around the world can feel emotionally exhausting. But reframing the way we approach receiving news allows us to surrender our worries to God while also intentionally lifting up issues, events and communities that need to experience His healing and love in tangible ways. As we pray for His will to be done and His glory to be made known, we can walk confidently through life with the knowledge that He is victorious and will ultimately bring complete healing to this world.
2. Pray Scripture back to God. How do you pray when you don’t have the words? When we use God’s own words by praying Scripture, we’re aligning ourselves with His heart and praying according to His will. What better way is there to give our prayer life new meaning? So when words fail you, open up the Bible and allow God’s words to be your prayer.
3. Pray for Bible translation during your daily routine. What if you could make a difference in the lives of people who are waiting for God’s Word without traveling across the world or altering your daily routine? Whether you’re brushing your teeth, commuting to work or making dinner, you can use the time you have to make an eternal difference.
4. Join the Wycliffe Prayer Community. Link arms with believers around the world and lift up communities and Bible translation projects! Our Wycliffe Prayer Community invites you to come alongside the global Church, get timely updates from the field and pray for active Bible translation projects.

Instead of Fear, God Calls Us to Action

“Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” — Matthew 28:19-20 (NLT)

There are over 70 verses that plainly say “don’t be afraid” in the Bible, depending on the version you use. Those verses and God’s promises are clear — and also comforting and empowering.

But what if they weren’t clear to you? What would it be like to not have those verses to comfort and empower you when you’re going through struggles?

In addition to prayer, God calls us to action — to get involved, wholeheartedly, in what He is doing around the world to bring people into a relationship with Him through Jesus Christ.

The work of Bible translation offers us a front-row seat to see people’s lives transformed when they encounter Jesus through Scripture in their language. You can join in through praying, giving, advocating and even serving!

We might find ourselves in a position similar to Joshua — about to take on something intimidating. Or we might be in a totally different set of circumstances that trigger fear, like Pastor Bennett Marona. So how do we deal with them and exchange them? By laying down fear and picking up the goodness, power and peace that come from trusting in God’s promises.

If we read Genesis and Revelation, we know the beginning and the end are more than points on a timeline: They represent the person of Jesus Christ — the Alpha and the Omega, the author and finisher of our faith. He will one day banish all fear altogether!

Until that day, we can keep laying down the fears that threaten us, and we can take up God’s goodness, power and peace for us instead.

Using Scripture When You Don’t Know What to Pray

Prayer is foundational to the work of Bible translation. We’ve seen lives changed, hearts transformed and entire communities impacted as a result of people praying specifically that God would make Himself known among the nations! Prayer is powerful, and it is one way God has invited us to join Him in His work.

But how can we pray when we don’t know what to pray or, rather, what new things to pray for? Our prayer life can feel monotonous if we’re praying the same things over and over again. And that’s often the case when praying for a people group waiting for the Bible in their own language. Updates can be infrequent, and sometimes we may not know the specifics of a translation project, country or region.

Even with resources like the Global Prayer List and the Wycliffe Prayer Community, there may be specific communities on your heart that aren’t represented in these lists. Still, God knows every language and every people group, and He invites us to trust Him in prayer.

Thankfully He knows what is needed! When we use God’s own words by praying Scripture, we’re aligning ourselves with His heart and praying according to His will. What better way is there to give our prayer life new meaning?

So when words fail you, open up the Bible and allow God’s words to be your prayer. Here are a few tips that can help get you started:

Find a Quiet Place to Connect With God

Our lives are so busy, and our days are constantly filled with noise, responsibilities and distractions. It can be difficult to quiet our minds and hearts enough to fully engage in prayer. But intentionally setting aside time to find a quiet space helps us re-center and become more aware of God’s presence.

In that stillness, we can hear His voice more clearly and allow His Word to shape our thoughts, guide our prayers and renew our spirit. Whether it’s a peaceful corner of your home, a walk in nature or even a few moments of stillness in your car, creating space for uninterrupted connection with God helps make our prayers more focused and heartfelt.

Start With a Scripture to Prepare Your Heart

Begin your prayer time by focusing on a verse that draws you closer to God and opens your heart to His presence. Starting with Scripture helps center your thoughts on His truth and prepares your spirit to listen and respond. You might choose a verse that reminds you of God’s grace, His presence or His promises. Let these words guide you into a deeper conversation with God.

Some possible examples include:

• “Gracious God, I come boldly to Your throne. I need Your mercy and grace in my life” (Based on Hebrews 4:16).
• “Lord, I need You. Please open my eyes to see the wonderful truths in Your instructions” (Based on Psalm 119:18).
• “Lord Jesus, quiet my heart and let Your peace rule in me as I come before You today” (Based on Colossians 3:15).

Use a Verse or Passage to Shape Your Prayers

You can do this by praying the verse or passage back to God and inserting the name of a specific people group to make the prayer more personal. If you don’t know where to begin, the Book of Psalms has some great prayers! Whether you’re looking to declare God’s goodness, ask Him to listen or praise His holy name, there’s a psalm that can become your prayer.

Paul’s epistles also have some great encouragement and prayers too, like Colossians 1:3-13. It’s a wonderful example of a passage to pray for a community that is learning about God in their own language for the first time!

• “Lord, the whole earth is Yours, and everything in it! The world and all its people belong to You — including the Rapa Nui people of Easter Island. May these people understand the depth of Your love for them today” (Based on Psalm 24:1).
• “God, fill the hearts of the Ayoreo people with the knowledge of Your will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives. Help them live lives that please You in every way” (Based on Colossians 1:9-10).
• “Let the Gela people of the Solomon Islands sing a new song to You, Lord! May Your praise be declared from the ends of the earth” (Based on Psalm 96:1-3).

Allow Imagery From Scripture to Influence Your Prayer

Revelation 7:9-10 paints a powerful picture of what is to come: all nations, people and languages gathered around the throne, worshipping God together. This vision gives us a glimpse of the future unity and diversity of God’s Kingdom.

As you reflect on this promise, allow it to inspire your prayers today. Ask God to bring that vision to life on earth by drawing more people into His family through the gift of Scripture in their own languages.

Here are a few ways you might pray:

• “Lord, may the Quechua people in South America join the great multitude praising You around the throne. Prepare their hearts for Your Word.”
• “God, I lift up the Deaf communities around the world. May Your Word in sign languages bring joy and transformation so they too are part of the worshipping crowd.”
• “Father, let the vision of Revelation 7:9 stir my heart to pray for the Koma people of Ghana. May they one day lift their voices in praise with Your Word in hand.”

Pray Scripture Personally and Specifically

Sometimes personalizing Scripture can help us connect more deeply with God’s heart for people groups around the world. When we insert the name of a specific community or nation into a verse, it becomes a powerful reminder that God’s love and plans extend to every language and people group.

“You have saved the Dukawa people of Nigeria, and You have called them to live a holy life. You did this, not because your children deserved it, but because it was Your plan from before the beginning of time — to show the Dukawa, and all of us, Your grace through Jesus Christ” (Based on 2 Timothy 1:9).

Pick a Verse and Declare It as Truth for a People Group or Nation

Scripture can include declarations of truth that apply to all people and nations. These verses can be turned into powerful prayers that proclaim God’s promises over entire communities.

As you read Scripture, ask God to highlight these truths and guide you in declaring them with boldness for those still waiting to encounter Him through His Word.

“Lord, Your Word says in Acts 2:21 that everyone who calls on Your name will be saved. I pray that the Roma people will call on Your name as a result of having Your Word in their own language. Save these people for Your glory!”

Ask the Holy Spirit to Help You Pray

Praying for a translation project or people group can feel overwhelming for many reasons, but God knows your heart! In Romans we see that the Holy Spirit actually prays on our behalf when we don’t know what to say. So allow the Holy Spirit to pray for you when you can’t think of what — or how — to pray yourself.

And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will. — Romans 8:26-27 (NLT)

God invites us to intimately connect with Him through prayer, and what better way to do that than to use His own words in the Bible? And as you pray Scripture, you’ll find new ways to talk to God too.

Praying With Trust and Hope

Even when updates on translation projects or specific communities are lacking, you can trust that God hears your prayers. He knows every detail of every language still waiting for Scripture, and He invites you to stand in the gap through prayer.

If you’re looking for ways to pray for specific communities, check out the Global Prayer List or join the Wycliffe Prayer Community.

God knows your heart, and He knows your desire to pray on behalf of people waiting for Scripture. Trust that as you faithfully commit to pray, He will be faithful in answering your prayers according to His perfect will.

Your prayers make a difference in bringing God’s Word to the nations. Let’s pray Scripture together and trust Him to do the rest.

When was the last time you prayed boldly for God to move in miraculous ways, trusting Him to show up in the face of disaster or uncertainty?

Faith isn’t just about believing — it’s about putting our beliefs into action. When we step out in faith, especially in difficult circumstances, we reflect God’s love to those around us and are able to see the ways in which God is moving powerfully in and through our situations. This is especially true when we are rooted in His Word and surrounded by a supportive church community that inspires us to live generously and act boldly.

A Devastating Flood and a Cry for Help

Dec. 23, 2017 was a normal day for Joel and Cindy. They lived in a city in the Philippines but didn’t recognize that up in the mountains torrential rain was falling. Three days later, they rode motorcycles up the highway to host their annual Christmas party for local Bible translators. Over dinner, someone asked if they had heard about the flood.

Several days earlier, at 9 a.m., heavy rains triggered a massive flood that swept through six villages, carrying nearly everything with it down the mountains and out to sea. Because the flood happened in daylight, people escaped to higher ground and survived. But the flood destroyed all their homes and belongings, leaving 450 families in mourning. Joel noted, “Their screaming, wailing and calling out to God … sounded like how we image David cried out … in Psalm 69”:

“Save me, O God, for the floodwaters are up to my neck. … I am exhausted from crying for help; my throat is parched. My eyes are swollen with weeping, waiting for my God to help me” (Psalm 69:1, 3, NLT).

When the people asked for help, Joel and Cindy replied, “We’ll pray, and we’ll try.”

The couple shared the situation with their missionary community in their city in the Philippines, as well as their family members, prayer and financial partners overseas in the United States. People began to donate, and as money came in, Joel and Cindy purchased essentials for the affected families like rice pots, serving spoons, blankets, sleeping mats, plates and cups. Other agencies were also providing food for those impacted by the flood. God moved in extraordinary ways through the collective body of Christ!

Even though the needs were still great, God was at work: He brought Joel and Cindy in contact with a local church that gave 50% to missions work! Later, a church member who owned a hardware store donated $6,000 worth of metal roofing. That same church contributed another $4,000 for more roofing. Instead of being overwhelmed by the needs, the couple was overwhelmed with God’s provision! Joel shared:

Through the generosity of local churches in the Philippines as well as churches overseas, God met the significant needs of these families. In the midst of our most difficult moments, we can turn to God and His Word for comfort:

“The humble will see their God at work and be glad. Let all who seek God’s help be encouraged. For the LORD hears the cries of the needy …” (Psalm 69:32-33a, NLT).

But millions of people today are still waiting to encounter Scripture in their own language. What if you could be part of bringing the hope, power and light of God’s Word to people when they need it most?

Faith in Action: How Generosity Reflects God’s Love

When we live generously and walk by faith, we reflect God’s faithfulness. He works through us to share His love and provide for others — not just physically but spiritually too.

By partnering with the ministry of a Wycliffe missionary or family, you’re supporting Bible translation efforts and furthering the Great Commission, helping to bring God’s Word to those still waiting for it in their language. You can boldly step into God’s mission today!

Why the Church Is Essential in Times of Crisis

God often works through community to accomplish His purposes. When we give, serve and support one another, we embody the love of Christ in profound ways. Just as the local church and the broader body of Christ partnered to bring relief to flood survivors in the Philippines, your church can make a lasting impact — not only in your local community but on a global scale as well.

When you partner with the ministry of a Wycliffe missionary or family, you’re becoming an advocate within your church for Bible translation. The same Scriptures that inspire and sustain your faith can bring hope and renewal to those who are still waiting for the Good News in a language they understand.

Take a moment to reflect on how you’ve seen God provide in your life. Thank Him for His faithfulness, and ask Him how you can be part of His provision for others.

Let’s live generously, pray boldly and watch God work through us to make His name known among the nations.

This story originally appeared in “A Journey with the Word,” a devotional book published in 2019 by Wycliffe Bible Translators USA. Joel serves with SIL Philippines, our primary partner.

Meet Dave McNeill! Dave has been serving with Wycliffe for nearly 40 years, and his journey to missions began in college. As a business management major, he spent a summer overseas contributing to a missions project. While there, Dave learned that one team had pulled a team member into an administrative role, but that skill set wasn’t a part of the person’s gifting. Dave began to realize that he could play a part in God’s mission.

During college, Dave decided to attend a missions conference, where he encountered a Wycliffe booth about opportunities to serve in Bible translation. Dave discovered God was leading him to serve in missions, and he joined Wycliffe right after graduating with his degree! Now he serves as a strategic innovations consultant and lead administrator for the Convergence accelerated apprenticeship program.

Accelerating Progress

God is raising up local churches to take the lead in Bible translation. We’re ready to support local leaders in accomplishing their vision through technology, resources and funding. Local churches are asking us to journey with them and assist with resources at a pace we’ve never experienced before!

We want to strive to keep up with what God is doing and continue saying “yes” to every language still needing Bible translation. As a result of a meeting in 2017, we noticed that even as the number of translation programs was increasing, the number of translation consultants was decreasing.

Traditionally, translation consultants pick up their skills on the job after getting involved with a translation project. As a result, it could take up to a decade to be fully equipped as a translation consultant. But churches don’t want to wait for translation work to start for their communities; they want to start it now. This required teams to think creatively about how to train and mentor more new translation consultants.

Accelerated Training Program

With the pace of Bible translation continuing to accelerate, Wycliffe developed an accelerated apprenticeship program called Convergence! This program equips new Bible translation consultants with both classroom knowledge and hands-on experience in less than five years. Convergence participants are equipped to support and mentor churches, language communities and translation teams. They learn how to participate in the translation and quality assurance processes in a way that is locally relevant and rooted in excellence. This empowers the local church to take ownership of the work in their communities, countries and even entire regions. After completing the program, participants will work in a specific region as a translation consultant!

Convergence is a cross-cultural program — training could happen in Africa, Asia or South America and includes additional short trips to a variety of overseas locations. Convergence participants serve under and with local churches to strengthen the community’s goals and develop sustainable church-led Bible translation programs.

Becoming a Translation Consultant in Training

We’re passionate about empowering and learning from local churches as they work to make Scripture available for their own communities. This means Convergence participants must embrace collaboration with humility. Dave said:

Participants of Convergence are embedded into a cohort of up to eight other people who encourage and pray for each other every step of the way. Mentors from Africa, Asia, Europe and the U.S. provide the participants with global training. Along the way, they develop meaningful relationships with each other. One Convergence participant shared:

Dave and his team work closely with each participant to determine if Convergence is a good fit for their gifts and skills. He shared some of the skills Convergence participants bring:

• A masters of divinity or a master’s degree in a field like biblical studies, linguistics or theology
• The ability to read a biblical language with reference helps
• Knowledge of a modern language other than English that can be used in the local community and to communicate with others on the team
• An eagerness to live and work overseas

An Eternal Impact

Local church leaders recognize that lack of Scripture is a massive barrier to evangelism, discipleship, church planting and other forms of ministry. Scripture empowers people to fully know God’s truth and live in His hope! Dave said:

Today at least 7,300 languages are spoken or signed around the world, and many languages still need Bible translation to start for the first time. As of January 2025, 1.78 billion people are being served through active Bible translation projects. Each number represents a person who has a story that matters to God. Convergence participants get the opportunity to engage with people on a personal level. Dave pointed out:

Ready to Join Us?

You could be part of seeing the Bible — the greatest story ever told — go out to all people around the world. At Wycliffe we embrace collaboration as we serve with the global body of Christ, because every person deserves access to all of God’s Word.

When you serve with us and become a translation consultant in training, you’ll receive global training and join God where He is working. We won’t stop until all people have access to all Scripture.

As a child, the whitewashed walls of a doctor’s waiting room often signaled one thing — reaching for the “Where’s Waldo?” book. While magazines like Home and Garden or People sat untouched, many children eagerly sifted through the pages, searching for Waldo hidden within the chaos of a crowded scene.

Sorting through prophecies and symbolisms of the Old Testament can feel similar, like an intricate game of “Where’s Jesus?”

Jesus often pointed to the “beginning” (Genesis), the Law of Moses (first five books) and the prophets (Jeremiah through Malachi) to reveal God’s plan for mankind and clues to recognize the Savior.

For the Jews of His time, understanding the Old Testament was key to discovering that Jesus is their promised Messiah.

And if you have heard the Good News from the New Testament and received Jesus as your Savior, Old Testament prophecies and symbolism provide further proof and assurance that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. These revelations are being brought to light for millions through the ongoing work of translating the Bible into all languages that need it.

1. Passover — Leviticus 23:4-8

This feast remembers the last plague in Egypt, when the angel of death “passed over” the children of Israel who applied the blood of the lamb to their doors. The Israelites took a bundle of hyssop and dipped it into the blood in the basin at the threshold.

Going up, they put it up on the lintel, then touched the two sides of the frame (Exodus 12). Can you see the imagery? Bottom to top, side to side: the motion formed a cross.

When John the Baptist said, “Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29, NLT), he understood the Old Testament reference.

And in the New Testament we see that Jesus — born in a stable, visited by shepherds and led to the slaughter — is that Lamb sent for us. His death allows the judgment we deserve to pass over us.

Freedom Through the Lamb of God

Akpaki, a member of the Kwi Cluster community in Togo, shared how Scripture in her own language transformed her life:

Just as the Israelites were saved by the blood of the lamb, Akpaki’s life has been redeemed by Jesus’ sacrifice. Through Bible translation, the Good News of Jesus’ death and resurrection is softening hearts, restoring relationships and offering a clean slate to people around the world.

2. Unleavened Bread — Leviticus 23:6

This seven-day feast begins on the day following the start of Passover. In the haste of the Israelites to leave Egypt, there was no time to add leaven (yeast) to their bread.

During this time, remembering the hardships in Egypt and how God freed them from captivity, the Jews eat nothing leavened.

Leaven often represents sin and decay in the Bible. Once incorporated, yeast becomes an inseparable part of the bread; the same is true for sin’s effect on our lives.

The Jews were constantly sacrificing unblemished animals to temporarily atone for sin. Only the Messiah, the perfect sinless sacrifice, could offer a permanent solution.

In John 6:35, Jesus boldly states that He is the Bread of Life. Not only does He remove our sins, He nourishes our souls!

The Gospel Comes Alive

A translator in Cameroon reflected on this truth in a deeply personal way after watching a film about the Gospel of Luke in his own language. Though he had been to Bible school, preached sermons and even worked on translation projects, something profound happened when he heard Jesus speak his language and saw Him portrayed on screen. He shared:

The man continued: “I heard Him say in the film, ‘Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.’ It was at that moment, I truly understood what Jesus went through. If this can impact someone like me, who has preached on these passages for so many years and translated, how much more will this speak to other people who haven’t heard it before?”

That is the life-changing power of Jesus, the Bread of Life. Just as unleavened bread reminds us of Christ’s sinless sacrifice, hearing and seeing His story in your own language allows the truth of His forgiveness and provision to deeply nourish and transform your heart.

3. Firstfruits — Leviticus 23:10

The Feast of Firstfruits is one of three Jewish harvest feasts to thank and honor God for all He provided. Although they didn’t know it at the time, the children of Israel were celebrating what would become a very important day.

The priests sacrificed Passover lambs on the 14th day of the month of Nisan, and the first day of Passover was the 15th. The Feast of Firstfruits was celebrated on the third day, the 16th of Nisan. This “third day” celebration was the same day that Jesus resurrected from the dead.

In 1 Corinthians 15:20 Paul refers to Jesus as the firstfruits of the dead. He represents the first of the great harvest of souls — including you — that will resurrect to eternal life because of the new covenant in His blood (Luke 22:20).

Eternal Abundance

For the Keliko people of South Sudan, receiving the New Testament in their language was not just a milestone — it was a moment to give thanks to God for the eternal life His Word offers. During the dedication, Bishop Seme Nigo Abiuda declared:

The Keliko people overcame many obstacles to complete their translation project — trials, loss, displacement. Having Scripture in their language is cause for celebration! Bishop Seme proclaimed:

Just as the Feast of Firstfruits celebrates God’s provision and the resurrection of Jesus, the Keliko people celebrated His miraculous work in bringing them His Word. Bible translation allows communities like the Keliko to lift their voices in praise to the one who provides eternal life through His Word.

4. Feast of Weeks or Pentecost — Leviticus 23:16

This feast is the second of the three harvest feasts. It occurs exactly seven weeks after the Feast of Firstfruits, so it’s also called Pentecost which means “50 days.”

Traditionally, people were expected to bring the first harvest of grain to the Lord including two leavened loaves of bread.

God’s plan to save souls included more than the Jews. Through Jesus, this plan was revealed. In Matthew 9:37 Jesus tells His disciples that “the harvest is great, but the workers are few.”

Then He put the plan into place: In Acts 1:4 He tells them to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit.

Today, Bible translation continues this harvest, enabling more people to read, speak or sign to clearly understand the gospel message in a language that touches their hearts.

United Through the Word

The Siwu-speaking communities in Ghana experienced God in a profound way: through Scripture in their language. For years, Siwu was seen as secondary, and many believed God only understood English or Ewe. But with the completion of the Siwu New Testament, they came to know a deeper truth:

A translator shared: “When we are doing Bible studies in Siwu, even the old ladies are making contributions because they understand what you are saying and ask questions. … I’ve also seen that formerly people thought they could only pray in Ewe. But no, we taught them, ‘God understands Siwu.’

Pentecost reminds us of God’s plan to reach every person and nation. Today through Bible translation, He is continuing to fulfill that promise, transforming lives and uniting His people through His Word.

5. Feast of Trumpets — Leviticus 23:24

In a beautiful declaration God commands His people to rest. During this time all regular work is prohibited, and men and women present a food offering to God.

On the same front, the sound of a trumpet is also associated with the rapture, or the time Jesus will return for His bride (1 Corinthians 15:52). Once He returns, there will be a wedding feast of celebration. Revelation 19:9 says, “Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb” (NLT). He’s preparing us to celebrate!

Joyful Praise in Every Language

“For years, we have prayed for this day,” exclaimed Aziz*, a believer in Eurasia, during a historic gathering to celebrate the publication of the Bible in his language.

For three days, joyful Christians sang, clapped and danced in worship. Among them was a judge who had once opposed Christianity. After encountering Scripture, his heart was opened by the Holy Spirit, and he was drawn to Jesus. Now this former opponent stood in the courtyard, worshipping God alongside those he once resisted.

This scene of celebration reflects the promise of Revelation 19:9 — the ultimate wedding feast of the Lamb.

*Name changed.

6. Day of Atonement — Leviticus 16, 23:26-32

To make “atonement” is to make restitution for wrongs committed. As a day of humility and repentance to God, it was a time for the Jews to get their hearts, consciences and lives right before Him.

The observance involved the sacrifice of animals as the high priest entered the Holy of Holies. What the high priest did there couldn’t offer more than an annual payment for their sins.

However, hiding in plain sight was the promise of One who could atone for their sins permanently (Hebrews 9:12).

Where is Jesus in these sacrificed animals? The bull and one of the goats were an offering of thanks, but the “scapegoat” took on their sins (Leviticus 16:10). The scapegoat was to be burdened with all the sins of Israel and sent into the wilderness.

The necessity of the Day of Atonement was rendered void by Jesus’ death on the cross — our debt has been paid! Yet for this life-changing truth to truly resonate, people must understand it in a language that touches their heart.

The Power of Hearing God’s Word in Your Language

Leonard Bolioki witnessed just how powerful translated Scripture can be. During a Good Friday service, he read the story of Jesus’ crucifixion to his congregation in his own language, Yambetta, for the first time. Previously, the story had always been read in French, but this time the response was entirely different.

The congregation was stilled by the words, and as Leonard read, some of the older women began to weep. After the service, they approached him with astonishment.

“We have never heard anything like it before!” they said. “We didn’t know there was someone who loved us so much that He was willing to suffer and die like that — to be crucified on a cross to save us!”

Leonard showed them the story in his French New Testament and explained that it was the same story they had heard every year during Holy Week. But the women insisted they had never truly understood it until now.

This moment deeply motivated Leonard to continue translating Scripture into Yambetta. He wanted his people to know that Jesus bore their sins and made a way for them to have a restored relationship with God.

The story of Jesus’ sacrifice is the greatest message of hope the world has ever known. And through Bible translation, that hope is reaching people’s hearts and moving them.

7. Feast of Tabernacles or Booths — Leviticus 23:34

Celebration always follows the Day of Atonement. The Feast of Tabernacles celebrates God’s provision and protection for the people of Israel during their 40 years of wandering in the wilderness. For seven days, people live in temporary structures, just as the Israelites did in the wilderness.

The Lord Himself was with the Israelites in the desert, in a tented temple called the Tabernacle, so the feast also celebrates His presence as He tabernacles (dwells) with us.

Revelation 7:9 paints a beautiful picture of this truth: “After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb.” This verse highlights the inclusivity of God’s Kingdom — people from every corner of the world united in worshipping Jesus.

This feast also points to the promise of Jesus’ return, when God will rally with His people. On that day, there will be no more death or suffering, and He will wipe every tear from our eyes (Revelation 21:4). What a day of joy and celebration that will be!

Having God’s Word is Having His Very Presence

When Marianna Slocum and Florence Gerdel completed the Highland Tzeltal New Testament in 1956, they saw firsthand the transformative power of Scripture. One believer prayed, “Lord, it isn’t enough that now in our hands we have Your Word written in our own language. Write it in our hearts, Lord, and let it be seen in what we do and say each day that we believe in You and that we obey Your commands.”

But their work didn’t end there. The two women later moved to Colombia, where they began translating the Bible for the Páez people. When the first 100 copies of the New Testament arrived, members of the community were deeply moved. One believer prayed:

This powerful statement reflects the heart of the Feast of Tabernacles — the joy of experiencing God’s presence. Through Bible translation, people like the Páez are encountering the living God in ways that transform their lives and draw them closer to Him.

Revealing God’s Plan Through Scripture and Translation

Unlike searching for Waldo in a messy world, we can pray for God’s wisdom as we read His Word. Even with this small glimpse into these feasts, we see His intentional love for humanity has endured centuries, and He has left us clues that foreshadow the beauty that is to come.

The Old Testament has many hidden truths that, in light of the New Testament, bring a richer understanding to your life in Jesus Christ.

Through the efforts of Bible translation, our goal is to make these profound truths accessible to all people everywhere, allowing them to discover the richness of God’s Word and recognize His plan for salvation through Jesus Christ.

Easter is a celebration of life, hope and victory. Across the world, believers gather to rejoice in the resurrection of Jesus — the moment that changed everything. For many of us, Easter traditions include sunrise services, joyful worship and reading the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection in the Bible.

But imagine if you had never experienced this story in a language you fully understand. For millions of people today, this is their reality. They don’t yet have access to the truth of Matthew 28:6: “He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead, just as he said would happen” (Matthew 28:6a, NLT).

God is at work around the world as communities receive Scripture in their own languages — some people for the first time. When people read, hear or see God’s Word in a way that resonates with their hearts, they encounter the risen Christ.

Easter is more than a holiday — it’s a reminder that Jesus’ resurrection changes everything. Through Bible translation, the gospel is reaching more people and cultures, bringing transformation and new life!

How Easter Is Celebrated Around the World

From festive meals to sunrise services, people around the world commemorate the resurrection in unique ways. Although Easter traditions vary across cultures, many celebrations consistently declare the same truth — Jesus is alive!

Pacific: Experiencing the Resurrection Through God’s Word

The Pacific is home to thousands of islands, each with its own landscapes, cultures and traditions. In New Zealand and Australia, Easter falls during autumn, and many people enjoy eating hot cross buns — a spiced sweet bread marked with a cross.

While we typically associate Easter with images of rabbits in the U.S., some Australians don’t use rabbits for their Easter festivities because they’re considered to be pests. Instead, they use the holiday to celebrate an endangered Australian animal called a bilby. It has long ears and looks similar to a rabbit, so they dub the animal the “Easter Bilby.”

In Vanuatu, an island nation in the South Pacific, Easter week centers around church activities, including a sunrise service on Easter morning. Worshippers gather to reflect on Christ’s sacrifice and proclaim His resurrection with joy.

Celebrations in the Pacific are shaped by rich traditions, but many communities still long to experience the story of Jesus’ resurrection in their own language. Through Bible translation — like the innovative workshops in the Solomon Islands that bridge the gap between oral communities and access to God’s Word — more people are encountering Jesus in Scripture. These efforts are deepening and transforming their faith, helping them better grasp the hope found in Him.

Africa: A Joyful Celebration, A Need for God’s Word

Easter is widely celebrated in churches throughout Africa: From Maundy Thursday to Resurrection Sunday, churches are adorned with butterflies, flowers and bright colors.

In Ethiopia, Christian churches celebrate Fasika, the 55 days leading up to Easter. Fasika is actually a bigger deal to people than Christmas! During this holiday celebration, people spend 55 days fasting from meat and animal products.

In South Africa, the day after Easter is known as Family Day, designed to provide a chance for loved ones to gather and reflect on the holiday’s meaning.

From vibrant vigils to weeks of fasting and prayer, Christians across Africa rejoice in Christ’s victory over death. But for many, the story of Easter is not yet available in their own language. As Bible translation continues through church-led partnerships in countries like Nigeria and Madagascar, more people are discovering the power of the resurrection in the words of Scripture, bringing lasting hope to their communities. Every new Scripture translation allows more people to encounter the risen Christ in a deeply personal way.

Asia: The Resurrection in Every Language

Asia, the world’s largest continent, is home to countless cultures and Easter traditions. In the Philippines, Easter morning begins with two separate processions — the men are in one procession and follow an image of Jesus risen from the dead while the women make up another procession and follow an image of Jesus’ mother, Mary, who’s wearing a black veil. The two groups meet at the church as a symbol of Jesus comforting Mary after He was raised from the dead. Then girls who are dressed up as angels for Easter take off Mary’s veil (called a lambong) and people celebrate!

In India, where Christians make up a small percentage of the population, people celebrate Easter as a “spring festival.” While egg dyeing and decorating is not common, many purchase elaborately decorated eggs and give them as presents to their children.

Asia’s vast diversity means the holiday is celebrated in many different ways. On a continent with thousands of languages, millions of people are still waiting to encounter Scripture in their own language and format.

But God is at work, bringing His Word to both spoken and signed languages in Asia — including Thai Sign Language, the primary sign language of the Deaf community in Thailand. As a result, more people in Asia are encountering the risen Christ through His Word.

When people learn about Christ’s resurrection in their own language, Easter takes on new meaning, bringing renewed hope and transformation.

Europe: Re-encountering Easter Through Bible Translation

Europe has a long history of Easter traditions. In Orthodox Christian countries like Romania, Serbia and Greece, people celebrate the holiday one to two weeks later than in other parts of the world because Orthodox churches follow the Julian calendar. In Germany, families decorate Easter trees with painted eggs, much like Christmas trees in December.

In Poland, families gather for Easter Sunday breakfast, which often includes a sweet bread called babka. On Easter Monday in France, something unique happens: Volunteers in the French town of Bessières gather to cook a giant omelet. Thousands of eggs are cracked and cooked to create this huge dish. So why do they do this?

Tradition says that Napoleon and his army were traveling through the south of France one day and stopped in this small town. They ate omelets there, and Napoleon liked them so much that he ordered the townspeople to gather their eggs and make a giant omelet for his army the next day.

Bessières has been doing this holiday tradition since 1973!

From egg-decorated trees in Germany to the grand feasts of Eastern Europe, the resurrection of Jesus remains at the center of many celebrations. And God is working in hearts and lives across Europe to bring His Word to people still waiting — like the Eastern Slovak Romani people who finally received their complete Bible in 2023!

We rejoice that God is moving in Bible translation through partnerships between like-minded organizations and local churches so everyone can encounter Him through translated Scripture in their language.

Americas: Bringing God’s Word to Every Community

Easter traditions across North, Central and South America reflect the region’s deep cultural diversity. In Bermuda, families fly colorful kites on Good Friday. The tradition started one year when a teacher wanted to help his students learn about Jesus ascending to heaven. So he took a kite decorated with Jesus’ face on it and let it soar into the sky to illustrate His ascension.

In Colombia, Easter Sunday isn’t celebrated with a lot of fanfare, but Holy Week draws thousands into the streets for solemn processions and church services. Many people go on vacation during Holy Week, while some travel from bigger cities to smaller Colombian towns for traditional Holy Week processions and to observe decorations in churches.

In the United States, Easter often brings communities together for church services, egg hunts and an abundance of sweets. Families gather to worship, celebrate and reflect on Jesus’ resurrection.

Many people in the Americas still lack access to God’s Word in their own language. Deep in the Amazon, communities like the Piapocos are eager to begin translation work so that they can have Scripture in a way that touches their hearts.

Bible translation is making this possible. As more people in the Americas receive Scripture in their own languages, they can truly understand and celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, our Savior.

A Global Celebration of the Risen Christ Through His Word

This Easter, as we reflect on Christ’s triumph over death and celebrate with our own unique holiday traditions and treats, let’s also pray for those still waiting to encounter Him through His Word. Through Bible translation, the Good News is reaching every nation so that all people will come to know the risen King. May we take the time this season to remember the significance of 1 Peter 1:3-4 (NLT):

“All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, and we have a priceless inheritance …”

Learn how you can partner with Bible translation and help bring the message of Easter to every language and every heart.

This content is adapted from our fun family activity, “Easter Around the World With Kate & Mack.”

Have you ever heard a story so outrageous that you wouldn’t believe it until you saw it for yourself? There’s something inherently human about the fact that we need to see it to believe it; some things are just too good to be true to accept at someone else’s word.

Think about Peter, who ran to the tomb after the women announced that Jesus had been raised from the dead (see Luke 24:9-12). He needed his own eyewitness account to truly believe the women’s report as fact. Or consider Thomas who, after others told him that Jesus had been resurrected, said, “I won’t believe it unless I see the nail wounds in his hands, put my fingers into them, and place my hand into the wound in his side” (John 20:25b, NLT).

Experiencing something for ourselves changes everything — seeing really is believing. And when it comes to encountering Jesus, this is particularly true for the Deaf. You see, for Deaf people, written or spoken language isn’t sufficient; they need to be able to see the love of Jesus on display. After all, a visual language should have a visual Bible, should it not?

If the gospel is delivered in a language people only somewhat know, they might get the general gist. But the gaps in understanding make it harder to believe that the stories are true — and that God’s promises are for them. That’s why Bible translation is so important: because no one should have to learn another language to understand the truth of God’s love for them. They shouldn’t have to wonder about the inherent value, dignity and worth that they possess because they are made in God’s image. They should be able to experience it personally.

The Need for Sign Language Bible Translation

There are four countries or regions that have the highest remaining Bible translation needs in the world. East Asia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea each have between 100 and 215 languages still in need of translation efforts to begin. Vanuatu, a small but linguistically diverse Pacific nation, is the fourth. We praise God for all the progress that is being made in these regions, knowing that it is His desire to see all people worship Him.

But there’s a fifth area on the list, and it’s the largest unreached people group in the world: the global Deaf. Today nearly 400 sign languages are used in the world that we know of. Yet, the American Sign Language Version of the Bible is the only full sign language Bible. (Take a look at Revelation 7:9 to see Scripture come to life in ASLV!)

Today, only 2% of the global Deaf population have access to any Scripture at all in a language and format they clearly understand, which means millions of Deaf people around the world have yet to get even a glimpse of who Jesus is.

But that’s changing!

God’s Word for the Deaf in India

An exciting translation project in India is underway that will result in a full, verse-by-verse, book-by-book Bible translation in video format within six years! Soon, Indian Sign Language will be the second sign language to have the full Bible.

As part of the current phase of the project, the team has completed 18 Old Testament books and will translate the remaining 21, as well as eight New Testament books (Romans, Galatians, Philippians, Hebrews, James, 1 & 2 Peter, Revelation), in the next three years.

The team has benefited from locally available Deaf resources that accelerated their efforts; partnered with the local Deaf church community representing various denominations; and welcomed non-Deaf, sign language-trained individuals to help speed up and streamline the process and assure a quality translation. It truly has been a collaborative effort!

In just over three years, a significant amount of Scripture has already been made available to — and widely accepted by — the Deaf community. The impact, both inside and outside the church, has been so great that the government has asked the team to help translate the national education material into sign language!

Because the sign language translation videos are published in the public domain, the Deaf community can engage daily with God’s Word by watching. The viewership in the first three years has been unprecedented, with more than 3,000 regular subscribers and several hundred thousand views. Analysis of the viewer statistics shows that people from all across India are viewing.

We praise God for the progress the team has made and for the impact this Scripture translation is making on the Deaf community in India!

The Power of an Eyewitness Account

Carlos Silva is a Deaf Brazilian pastor who knows firsthand that Jesus’ love changes everything. That’s why he’s working to advocate for and reach the nearly 10 million Deaf in Brazil with the Scriptures.

As a child, Carlos struggled with his sense of worth and value. He was born into poverty and experienced trauma and abuse. At 15 years old, Carlos was invited to attend church with a friend. At first, he didn’t want to go, thinking, Why would I go to church? God doesn’t love me. Nothing ever helps me; no one has ever helped me. But finally he gave into his friend and went to church.

There he learned about how Jesus died on the cross for his sins, and something about the story resonated with him deeply. Carlos shared, “My eyes were opened. I started crying and felt my whole spirit burning. My heart had been really heavy previously, and all of a sudden I felt lighthearted. I felt the Holy Spirit take something off me — a burden — and I felt lighthearted. I felt love coming back. I felt emotions coming back.”

Carlos then started going to church and studying the Bible, but it was extremely difficult because he had to use Portuguese words instead of his sign language. He would look in the dictionary and underline everything he could, trying to understand what God was saying. Carlos’ Bible soon became filled with all kinds of notes. It was a source of comfort and hope to him, even as he labored to fully understand its meaning.

One day, Carlos was invited to São Paulo to preach. A woman raised her hand to accept Jesus and then asked if he had a Bible she could take home. The only Bible Carlos had was his own, but he chose to give it to her, praying that it would serve her well.

The woman went back to her family and told them what she’d learned about God, and before long, her whole family was saved! About a year later, she called Carlos to let him know she was in the hospital with cancer; her time on this side of eternity was coming to an end. But first she wanted to give Carlos’ beloved Bible — that had transformed her and her family — back to him. For Carlos, it was a surprise gift.

Today, Carlos is pastoring in Brazil, working to bring the Good News of the gospel to other Deaf Brazilians — including his daughter, Isadora. Because she has been able to encounter Jesus through Brazilian sign language videos, she’s accepted Him as her Savior and now works to share the Good News with kids like her.

Carlos passionately shared, “The time is now for translations to be done in all these languages so the hearts and minds can be opened and people can behold who God is. Then we can all be together in heaven, and we will all worship him and wave our hands. We will be screaming or singing, ‘Marvelous, marvelous God!’”

Check out this video by our partner, Seed Company, depicting Carlos’ story.

How Do You See Jesus?

In the West, we have countless opportunities to see Jesus. If your primary language is English, for example, you have hundreds of versions of the Bible — tailored to your age, gender, phase of life, preferred font size, you name it! Not only that, but we have countless Scripture resources that equip us to dig deeper into God’s Word, to learn more about who God is and His love for us, and to strengthen our relationship with Him.

The next time you read your Bible of choice, stop and pray for the global Deaf:

• That God would raise up partners to start translating the Bible for the hundreds of Deaf communities still waiting around the world.
• That He would raise up local believers to participate in translation projects.
• That we’d see unprecedented levels of collaboration and innovation as we work together to provide opportunities for people of all languages and backgrounds to encounter God through Scripture.

We’re all invited to see Jesus’ love on display — and ensure others can too. May we all work with fervor and passion so that every Deaf man, woman and child can see with their eyes and understand in their hearts how much Jesus loves them.

Imagine walking into your church on Sunday morning only to find that there were no Bibles. No printed copies. No digital versions. No Scripture at all. For millions of people around the world, this isn’t a hypothetical scenario — it’s their reality.

At House of Blessing Church in Kissimmee, Florida, Pastor Jayfred Morales and his congregation were going about their usual ministry plans when something changed. During their annual convention, guest speaker Pastor Stephanie de Oliveira introduced them to Adopt-a-Verse, an initiative that allows individuals and churches to sponsor the translation of Bible verses for a specific people group still waiting for Scripture. In an instant, their perspective shifted.

“When the project was presented to us on a Tuesday night of our convention, we saw families literally running to the altar,” Pastor Morales recalled. “They wanted to be part of something bigger than themselves.”

That night, something deeper took root: a realization that Bible translation can’t wait.

Answering God’s Call

Rather than continuing with their original 2025 ministry project, House of Blessing Church chose to shift gears and adopt eight chapters of the Gospel of Mark for the Wiwa people of Colombia — a group who doesn’t yet have the full Bible in their language.

“It’s been a tremendous challenge,” Pastor Morales admitted. “But also a blessing.”

Their commitment isn’t just financial — it’s deeply personal. The church now dreams of traveling to Colombia to meet the Wiwa community and see firsthand how God is using their generosity to transform lives.

“It’s Only Good News If It Gets There in Time”

As Pastor Morales reflected on their decision, one thought kept coming back to him:

How can people believe if they’ve never encountered Jesus? And how can they know Jesus if they don’t have His Word? As Romans 10:14 reminds us: “But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them?” (NLT)

For the House of Blessing Church, this wasn’t just another ministry initiative: It was an urgent call to action.

“There are things in the church that can wait,” Pastor Morales says. “But Bible translation isn’t one of them.”

A Challenge for Churches Everywhere

Pastor Morales believes more churches — especially within the Latino community — need to step out in faith and support the work of Bible translation.

“I know it’s a challenge,” he acknowledged. “We’re always thinking about how to grow our local church, how to manage our resources. But let’s not lose focus on what God calls us to do. Many times, we plan too much and forget what’s truly a priority — missions and, in this case, Bible translation.”

His encouragement to other pastors and church leaders?

“Just do it.”

You Can Help Bring God’s Word to Those Still Waiting

The House of Blessing Church took a leap of faith, and their impact will last for generations. But millions are still waiting to receive Scripture in their language.

Your church can help. Your small group can make a difference. You can be part of Bible translation.

Will you answer the call?

Who first introduced you to God’s Word? What people in your life have shaped your faith journey? Maybe a pastor, friend or family member comes to mind. As one generation shares stories of God’s presence and faithfulness, the next grows stronger.

Imagine a tapestry woven with vibrant threads; each strand represents a person’s life and their legacy. Every thread tells the story of their faith: the prayers that they prayed, the wisdom they shared with their family or the quality time spent in God’s Word.

One powerful way faith is passed down across generations and cultures is through Bible translation. When people receive God’s Word in their own language, faith takes root in their hearts and transforms lives — both now and for generations to come.

The Power of Bible Translation in Korea: Faith through the Generations

Language shapes how people understand and experience the world. Bible translation is about more than just translating words on a page. It’s about empowering people to encounter God in a way they fully understand through Scripture.

Bible translation has profoundly impacted Korea. More than a century ago, missionaries recognized the need for Scripture in Korean. Ever since the Scriptures became available in the Korean language, faith has flourished. Today, the Korean church drives one of the world’s strongest missionary-sending movements.

This legacy of faith began with a young Scottish missionary named John Ross who traveled to Sheen Yang, China, where he met three Korean merchants. As they shared about their homeland, he realized they didn’t have the Bible in their own language. Determined to meet this need, Ross partnered with these men and fellow missionary John McIntyre to translate the New Testament. In 1887, they completed the Gospel of John, laying the foundation for the full Korean Bible which would be published in 1911.

These early missionaries and Korean believers planted seeds of faith that continue to bear fruit today. The Korean church traces its roots to this moment of faithfulness, when God’s Word became accessible in their language. The impact of Bible translation spans across generations, shaping lives — including the family of Rev. Dr. Lisa Pak.

Lisa’s grandmother, Il Hwe Kim, was born in 1920 — just nine years after the full Bible was completed in Korean — and treasured her Bible. Lisa recalls hearing her grandmother read from her Korean Bible and seeing the worn red edges; God’s Word was precious to her grandmother. The words of Scripture shaped her faith and her daily life. It helped her model the love of Jesus to her family.

The Faithfulness of One Generation Inspires the Next

Il Hwe’s journey of faith was shaped by answered prayers and having God’s Word in her language. She got married at 19 and struggled with infertility for many years. So she prayed to God, and at the age of 33, she miraculously became pregnant. This powerful answer to prayer became foundational to her faith. While not everyone’s journey with infertility ends in this way, God used this experience to draw Lisa’s grandmother to Him.

Her faith in Christ grew, anchoring her throughout her life and battle with cancer. She instilled the importance of prayer and Scripture in her daughter, Chong Soo. Il Hwe attended prayer services nearly every day and encouraged Chong Soo to read and memorize God’s Word. These spiritual habits shaped her family and subsequently the future generations.

As Chong Soo raised her own children, she continued the legacy of faith. Chong Soo participated in Bible studies and church programs, and she taught her children about God’s Word.

Inspired by the faith of her mother and grandmother, Lisa felt called to ministry and attended seminary, despite gender and social stereotypes. Lisa’s grandmother was overjoyed when she followed in the footsteps of preachers like Billy Graham. Today Lisa serves as a passionate advocate for Bible translation and also for the next generation of believers. Chong Soo shared:

How Have Threads of Faith Led You to Where You Are Today?

From the Bible translators who make Scripture accessible to communities to followers of Christ who live out their faith for their families, the Good News continues to spread generation after generation. Reflecting on her faith and calling, Lisa shared:

The way that we live out our faith today shapes not only our own lives and families but generations of people we might never meet this side of eternity. Missionaries like John Ross and John McIntyre never got to witness the full ripple effect of their work — and that work is still ongoing to this day!

Because of the power of the Holy Spirit, God’s Word is transforming generations.

A Legacy That Continues

Let’s boldly proclaim — to our family, friends and the world — all that God has done and continues to do through His Word: “Let each generation tell its children of your mighty acts; let them proclaim your power” (Psalm 145:4, NLT). We also get the chance to celebrate His ongoing faithfulness, especially in the milestone moments of Bible translation.

By making God’s Word accessible to all people in a language they clearly understand, Scripture shapes generations of believers, just as the Korean Bible has influenced Lisa Pak’s family. The impact of this spiritual heritage stretches across time and places, transforming lives long after the work is done. Bible translation bridges communities, connects believers and advances God’s Kingdom. The faith we have today is part of a much larger story — one that began long before us and will continue long after us.

Who are the people who shaped your faith journey? How can you model faith for the generations to come?

Take time today to thank God for those who introduced you to His Word. Then consider how you can continue that legacy — through prayer, giving, serving or sharing Scripture with others. Faith is a gift that is meant to be passed on, and you are part of God’s unfolding story.

In the Book of Luke alone, there are 10 stories of Jesus dining with various people. Let’s look at each of these meals and what they could mean for you.

1. Dining With the Enemy — Luke 5:27-32

In Jesus’ time, tax collectors were pretty much hated by the people. These were Jews who were taking advantage by collecting Rome’s taxes plus a surcharge to line their own pockets (Luke 19:8). To many, they were considered “outsiders” and just as much enemies as the Romans. Jesus eating a meal with a tax collector would be like you having dinner with a loan shark. How would your friends and family react to that?

We know that Jesus wasn’t just responding to an invitation; He sought Levi out and had a purpose in mind:

“Later, as Jesus left the town, he saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at his tax collector's booth. ‘Follow me and be my disciple,’ Jesus said to him” (Luke 5:27, NLT).

Jesus wanted this man — this enemy of the people — to be saved. Each of us, before coming to Christ, was an enemy of God (Romans 5:10). But God loved us so much that He not only wanted to make us friends, but He also wanted to make us family (Ephesians 1:5).

From Enemy to Advocate: How God Transformed Elvis’ Heart

Elvis, from the Central African Republic, had no interest in God. As a committed atheist, he took pride in debating his wife, mocking her faith and trying to convince her that God didn’t exist. His words often brought her to tears, but she never stopped praying for him.

When his plans for higher education fell through, Elvis began searching for ways to use his teaching skills in the community. This unexpected detour led him to a Bible translation training course in Gbeya, his own language. At first, he saw it as nothing more than an academic challenge.

But as he worked through the meaning of each passage, wrestling with how to express it clearly in Gbeya, something unexpected happened — God’s Word began working in his heart. He shared:

The one who once mocked his wife’s faith became a Christian. Today Elvis is the national director for ACATBA, leading Bible translation and literacy efforts across the Central African Republic.

Just as Jesus called Levi, He called Elvis — an enemy of the faith — into His family. And He is still calling people today.

2. The Uninvited Guest — Luke 7:36-50

Have you ever hosted a dinner party only to have someone unexpected (and possibly unwanted) show up?

Jesus went to Simon the Pharisee’s house for a prestigious dinner, where topics of the day were to be discussed. Since the dining areas in the homes of the elite were often partially open to the street, the public could listen to the conversations.

Enter the “sinful woman” (Luke 7:37). She crossed the invisible barrier into the invited, elite space and shocked all in attendance with her actions.

Although self-righteous Simon was indignant, Jesus welcomed her because He saw her heart. She was coming to seek forgiveness.

Jesus was often interrupted in His ministry — from those who called out for help from the sidelines or touched Him in a crowd. He wasn’t angry with any of them for messing with His agenda. Instead, He had compassion and stopped to meet their needs.

3. Feeding the Hungry — Luke 9:10-17

In Luke’s account, Jesus fed 5,000 people (not including women and children) who had come to hear Him speak. He didn’t have to feed them. After all, they were getting fed truth. Wasn’t that enough?

Jesus knew they also had physical needs. In Matthew 25 Jesus reveals that those who truly know Him serve others in very real ways, such as feeding the hungry and giving a drink to the thirsty. This can apply to serving food to the homeless or simply finding out if someone who’s visiting you might be thirsty.

Meeting the basic physical needs of people often ministers more than words and ultimately gives you a kind of integrity that can lead to a deeper conversation. But hunger isn’t always just physical — there’s a spiritual hunger too.

Feeding the Soul: Satisfying Spiritual Hunger Through God’s Word

The Sihanaka people of Madagascar understand this spiritual hunger deeply. At the dedication of the Sihanaka Bible, Pastor Njato Rakotobe described what it was like for his community to finally have God’s Word in their own language:

Just as Jesus met both the physical and spiritual hunger of the crowd that day, God is doing the same for people around the world through Bible translation. When people finally receive Scripture in a language they clearly understand, it nourishes their souls in a way nothing else can.

4. Smell the Roses — Luke 10:38-42

Just like us, Jesus had friends. Siblings Lazarus, Mary and Martha were dear to Him, and no doubt He enjoyed getting together with them. Martha — the hostess — was working hard to prepare a good meal for Jesus.

When Martha complained about her sister, who was just sitting and listening to Jesus, she was probably surprised when He rebuked her. Essentially, He said that Mary’s choice to sit and listen to Him was better than all the work she was doing.

The problem wasn’t the work. It was that she was so busy she was going to miss the purpose: spending time with Jesus.

Whether you’re having friends over for dinner or serving at church, make time to enjoy the people you’re serving. Consider taking that five-course meal down a notch, because it’s the laughs and the meaningful moments that are most memorable.

5. Wash What Matters — Luke 11:37-53

Life is messy. In Jesus’ time, walking dusty roads meant arriving at a meal with dirt on your feet. When Jesus dined with a Pharisee, He was criticized — not for poor hygiene but for failing to follow their ritual washing. But Jesus wasn’t concerned with outward cleanliness; He exposed the deeper issue:

“You Pharisees are so careful to clean the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside you are filthy — full of greed and wickedness! Fools! Didn’t God make the inside as well as the outside?” (Luke 11:39-40, NLT).

The Pharisees focused on appearances, but God looks at the heart. When we welcome others, are we judging by what we see?

True holiness isn’t about how someone looks but about a heart transformed by God. Instead of focusing on outward impressions, let’s ask Him to cleanse us from the inside out so we can love others as He does (Ephesians 5:26).

Transformed by the Word: True Cleansing Comes from God

Jacqueline Huggins once wanted nothing to do with God. After a painful childhood, she became an “anti-evangelist,” actively trying to convince others that God didn’t exist. To her, Scripture was meaningless — until one night, a personal crisis led her to cry out to God, “If You exist, You ought to be able to see me now; You ought to be able to hear me. If You’re there, prove it!”

A voice in her mind urged her to find a Bible she had forgotten about. Skeptically, she obeyed and opened it to Romans 2:4c (NLT):

At that moment, Jacqueline’s heart was cleansed — not by rituals but by the power of God’s Word. The Bible she once dismissed became the foundation of her faith, and she dedicated her life to sharing it with others.

Years later, on April 19, 2008, Jacqueline made history as the first African American woman to complete a New Testament translation, helping bring God’s Word to the Kagayanen people of the Philippines. Alongside a team of faithful coworkers, she helped provide the Kagayanen people with Scripture in their language for the very first time.

Just as Jesus called out the Pharisees for focusing on the outside rather than the heart, Jacqueline’s story reminds us that God’s Word cleanses and transforms us from within. The Kagayanen people now have that same opportunity — to experience true renewal through Scripture in their own language.

6. Consider Your Conversation — Luke 14:1-24

When Jesus accepted a dinner invitation to the home of a Pharisee, He came prepared to speak on the hot topics of the day: working on the Sabbath, places of honor (at the table) and who gets to sit at God’s banquet table. Controversial topics and touchy subjects still come up at the dinner table today. How do you deal with them?

When Jesus had a point to make on a difficult subject, He didn’t go into a long, drawn-out monologue. He asked well-thought-out questions that engaged people and told interesting stories (parables) to make a complex subject understandable.

His words were grounded in a solid understanding of the Word and a deep desire to bring people into right relationship with God.

7. Invite Yourself Over — Luke 19:1-10

Zacchaeus was curious about Jesus but only expected to observe Him from afar. The “wee little man” of Sunday school fame couldn’t see over the crowd, so he climbed a tree to catch a glimpse. He was probably surprised when Jesus noticed him. As the chief tax collector, he was even more surprised — and excited — when Jesus wanted to have a meal at his house.

Zacchaeus, a “sinner,” was not going to reach out to Jesus, the respected rabbi. He didn’t know he needed salvation, and he likely had little hope of acceptance in the community. It might seem ironic that Zacchaeus’ name means “pure” or “innocent.” But not when you consider that Jesus came to make us white as snow; He saw Zacchaeus’ potential.

Welcomed by God: The Jita People Encounter Scripture in Their Language

Like Zacchaeus, some people don’t expect to be pursued by God. They may feel distant from Him or assume Christian faith isn’t for them. But when they encounter God’s Word in a language they understand, everything changes.

On July 31, 2024, the Jita people of Tanzania celebrated the dedication of their New Testament with singing, dancing and joyful worship — all in their own language. One phrase echoed throughout the celebration:

For the Jita, Scripture in their language is more than a spiritual milestone — it’s a way to preserve their identity and faith for future generations. Even those who once resisted the gospel now cherish the Bible because it reflects their heritage. As they begin reading, many come to faith in Jesus.

One elderly blind man, hearing the celebration from town, was so overwhelmed with joy that he made his way to the dedication just to shake the hands of those who translated God’s Word.

Pastor Samamba, a local pastor, no longer has to preach from a language he doesn’t understand. Before, he had to translate God’s Word from Swahili as he spoke. Now he can read directly from the Jita New Testament, and his people can fully understand God’s message.

Just as Jesus sought out Zacchaeus, God is drawing people to Himself through His Word. Now the Jita people know, without a doubt, that God speaks their language and welcomes them into His family.

8. Put Your Guests First — Luke 22:14-38

Jesus’ Last Supper — the Passover meal — with His disciples is filled with meaning. The scene that is set reveals that Jesus is the Lamb of God, that in Christ there is a new covenant, and that we are to remember His sacrifice through communion (Luke 22:14-38). Jesus is clearly the center of this meal.

His death and resurrection were going to change their lives and the world itself. He could have talked about His terrible suffering to come, but instead He focused on what they would need to remember from that night.

9. Disciple Over Dinner — Luke 24:28-32

After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to two of His followers on the road to Emmaus. With His identity cloaked by God, He talked with them about all that had happened and explained the significance through the Scriptures: “Then Jesus took them through the writings of Moses and all the prophets, explaining from all the Scriptures the things concerning himself” (Luke 24:27, NLT).

They couldn’t get enough of what He was saying and implored Him to continue at dinner. As soon as He gave thanks for the bread and broke it, as He had at the Last Supper (Luke 22:19), their eyes were opened. They were dining with the risen Savior! Not only that, but they had been taught to understand the Scriptures in a way that made sense to them.

Clarity changes everything. When Jesus opened His disciples’ minds to understand the Scriptures, their entire perspective shifted. God continues to do this today as people encounter His Word in a language they understand.

From Darkness to Light: The Power of Scripture in Bringing Clarity

In Chad, a pastor named Clément experienced this firsthand when he received the New Testament in Guley, his own language. Before that, he relied on translations in French or Ngambay — languages spoken in the region but not ones that truly resonated with the people. Preaching often felt like trying to explain difficult concepts with the wrong tools.

But when he finally read Scripture in Guley, everything changed:

Just as Jesus illuminated the Scriptures for His disciples, God is opening minds and hearts through His Word in languages that speak to people deeply.

10. Serve Comfort Food — Luke 24:36-43

When the two from Emmaus went back to tell the disciples, suddenly Jesus appeared. They were very afraid — they thought they’d seen a ghost! But Jesus reassured them with a simple gesture; He sat down and ate with them. Then Jesus “opened their minds to understand the Scripture” (Luke 24:45, NLT).

By eating, Jesus wasn’t just proving that He wasn’t a ghost. He was doing something familiar to put their minds at ease. Like the ultimate comfort food, Jesus was ministering to His disciples’ weary hearts. Meals still can work that way, melting away a frazzled work day or soothing an aching heart.

His example provides you with an opportunity to invite friends, outcasts and even enemies to know God’s story of love and salvation.

There are millions in this world who have yet to receive Jesus’ invitation because they don’t have any of God’s Word in their own language. As you give thanks over your meals, would you pray for them?

What if your prayers could change the world?

Imagine a village where, for the first time, people are hearing God’s Word in their own language. A missionary is sharing the gospel with someone who has never encountered Christ before. These moments don’t just happen — they are fueled by prayer.

Prayer is not just a support role in Bible translation and missions; it is an active and essential part of God’s work. When we pray, we join God in His mission to bring Scripture to every language and people group.

As you pray for missionaries and Bible translation efforts, here are seven key ways to intercede effectively:

1. Pray for Open Doors

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message … — Colossians 4:2-3 (NIV)

Open doors can’t be taken for granted. Many missionaries work within cultures and contexts that are in areas that are resistant to the gospel. But open doors include more than just access to nations and people groups. Individuals’ hearts also need to be open and receptive to God’s truth.

Pray …

• That God will open doors of ministry, blessing partnerships and friendships.
• That those who serve will be led by the Holy Spirit and recognize open‑door opportunities.
• That God will lead His people past barriers to hearts ready to receive His Word.

2. Pray for Boldness

Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel. … — Ephesians 6:19 (NIV)

Missionaries are regular people who fear pain and rejection as much as anyone else. When faced with opposition, they need God’s strength to help them stand firm.

Pray …

• That the Holy Spirit will provide missionaries with words that communicate effectively in other cultures and languages.
• That they will have boldness to overcome the fear of embarrassment or failure.
• Against evil forces that would seek to hinder the spread of the gospel.

3. Pray That God’s Word Will Spread

Finally, dear brothers and sisters, we ask you to pray for us. Pray that the Lord’s message will spread rapidly and be honored wherever it goes, just as when it came to you. — 2 Thessalonians 3:1 (NLT)

Obstacles must be removed to allow God’s Word to spread rapidly and freely, and missionaries need the strength to continue on in the face of opposition or difficulties. Just as Aaron and Hur supported Moses’ arms in the battle against the Amalekites (Exodus 17:12), you can strengthen the arms of missionaries by supporting them through your prayers.

Pray …

• For strength and stamina as missionaries encounter antagonistic spiritual forces (Ephesians 6:10-18).
• That people will resist Satan’s plans to obstruct the spread of the gospel (James 4:7).
• That God’s Word will indeed spread rapidly and be honored wherever it goes.

4. Pray for Protection

Pray, too, that we will be rescued from wicked and evil people, for not everyone is a believer. — 2 Thessalonians 3:2 (NLT)

In some cultures or contexts, missionaries may be exposed to the possibility of danger and personal harm. Opposition to the gospel may include hatred and violence.

Pray …

• That God will keep missionaries safe.
• That God will change the hearts of those who are resistant to His Word.
• For wisdom and discernment in challenging situations.

5. Pray for Effective Ministry

“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” — John 15:5 (NLT)

It’s important to rely on God for all aspects of ministry — especially during times of great difficulty, so that efforts will produce fruit and ultimately a harvest will be gathered.

Pray …

• That God will provide strength and perseverance to missionaries when their ministries seem to be fruitless.
• That seeds will be planted and that missionaries would be able to see the fruits of their labor.
• That an abundant harvest will be produced as more people learn about the love of Christ.

6. Pray for Travel

And then he told them, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.” — Mark 16:15 (NLT)

Many missionaries travel frequently, both nationally and internationally. Their modes of transportation may vary from airplanes to buses, to canoes and motorbikes, and everything in between.

Pray …

• That missionaries will be granted required permissions (visas and passports) to travel and that they will have the necessary funds for tickets and fees.
• For protection and provision during travel.
• For God’s grace and favor when challenges or obstacles appear on any journey.

7. Pray for Refreshment

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” — Matthew 11:28-30 (NLT)

Missionaries deal with many of the same stresses you face in life, like overwhelming workloads, conflicts in relationships and financial uncertainties. Often, however, missionaries struggle with these issues alone, without the fellowship and support of other Christians. Living and working cross-culturally adds an additional element that can challenge their emotional, spiritual and physical vitality.

Pray …

• That God will provide opportunities for missionaries in isolated areas to spend time with other believers.
• That God will provide times of peace and relaxation to refresh His workers.
• For restoration — physical, mental, emotional and spiritual — that can only be found in Jesus.

Your Prayers Make a Difference

Every prayer you offer strengthens missionaries, opens doors for the gospel and brings Scripture into the hands of those still waiting. Perhaps God has placed a specific missionary, people group or Bible translation project on your heart. However He leads you, know that your prayers are vital to His work around the world.

But prayer is just the beginning. You can also engage by learning about ongoing Bible translation projects, supporting missionaries financially or advocating for the need for Scripture in every language.

Let’s see lives transformed together.

Around the world, God is revealing Himself through His Word every day to people. God’s faithfulness is all around us, transforming our challenges into moments for Him to display His grace and miracles — if only we pause and recognize what He is doing.

Jenniffer Ortiz, a field coordinator from Colombia, has witnessed God’s divine handiwork firsthand. Her work across South America — from remote Amazon communities to growing local churches — is a testament to how God listens to our prayers, positions us in our communities for a purpose and works in ways beyond our imagination.

Ephesians 3:20-21 (NLT) reminds us of God’s goodness to us, His faithfulness across generations and how He is worthy of all our praise: “Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen.”

Jenniffer shared several stories that help us see that when we place our trust in God, we become part of something greater than our own plans. God is able to do far more than we ever could ask or imagine.

God’s Faithfulness in the Amazon: Ministering with the Piapocos

The eyes of the LORD watch over those who do right, and his ears are open to their prayers. But the LORD turns his face against those who do evil. — 1 Peter 3:12 (NLT)

In the heart of the Amazon jungle, the Piapocos people longed to understand the full story of God’s Word. They embraced Jesus, built churches and walked in faith, yet their hunger for a deeper understanding of Scripture remained unfulfilled. Despite the fact that they have no internet and no electricity, their prayerful hearts were resolute.

Jenniffer took multiple flights, a cargo plane laden with supplies and then a journey by canoe to travel to their remote community. There, she listened to stirring testimonies of individuals who had journeyed for days or weeks just to attend a gathering in the community. During the event, which lasted five days, around 100 people from various Piapoco communities came together to form a pastoral committee. They made decisions and assumed responsibilities related to the translation project.

God heard their prayers to know Him more fully.

When four local believers were chosen and commissioned to translate the Old Testament, there was no funding, no technology and no project approval. Yet, the persistent prayers of the Piapocos ignited a breakthrough.

By 2023, the translation project was officially approved, and by 2025, the team had the tools they never imagined possible: satellite internet, computers and a dedicated group of people working on the Book of Ruth. God provided!

Ramiro Rodriguez, the pastor of the church in the Piapoco community of Pueblo Nuevo and a member of the pastoral committee, captured the moment beautifully in a video and said:

The story of the Piapocos translation is a powerful reminder that prayer is about trusting a God who listens and acts in His perfect timing. Jenniffer shared how stories like this have impacted her faith: “[That] I have a God that hears me, that I have a God that understands and listens to me when I cry to Him, that His ears are open, that His eyes are on me, that the Lord is looking out for me … that’s amazing.”

Just as 1 Peter 3:12 encourages us, our God hears the cries of our hearts and cares for us. The inspiring faith of the Piapocos is as a testament to God’s attentive ear; He provided the resources for their community to begin translating the Bible into their own language!

Not only does God hear us, but He positions us in unexpected ways to make a difference.

Finding Purpose in God’s Mission in Panama

We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps. — Proverbs 16:9 (NLT)

In Panama, an indigenous church reached out to Jenniffer with a heartfelt request: Although they had the New Testament in their language, they yearned for the full counsel of God’s Word through having the Old Testament too. Eager to serve them, Jenniffer traveled from Colombia to Panama City and then embarked on a six-hour drive to the remote town of Yaviza. From there, her adventure continued aboard a canoe, crossing a wide, powerful river.

Instinct led Jenniffer to choose to sit in the middle of the canoe, where she expected the most security. Yet with his deep understanding of the river, the local pastor guiding her carefully assigned each person a place. To her surprise, he placed her at the very back. Initially, the position felt uncertain and less safe — but it was the best place for her to maintain the balance for the whole group. As the canoe glided steadily across the river, Jenniffer recognized the wisdom behind the pastor’s decision and saw it as a metaphor for God’s Kingdom:

“[The pastor] was excited to organize everybody in different places in the canoe. Other partners who were in the stream had to be in different places. … Eventually, I understood that the pastor knew more than me about how to keep the balance in the canoe, and he organized everybody in the perfect place.”

Trusting God with our placement and purpose in life invites us to be part of His mission in remarkable ways, and the best part — He is with us every step of the way: “We are part of God’s mission, but we aren’t alone, because Jesus said that the Holy Spirit is going to be with us in this mission,” Jenniffer noted.

Jenniffer witnessed how every role within the community and Bible translation efforts — translators, pastors, teachers and prayer warriors — can come together to form a balance like a group in a canoe. Trusting God’s placement, though sometimes challenging, is for our good and His glory.

Embracing Your Unique Place in God’s Greater Story

Today Jenniffer continues her work as a field coordinator, inspiring people in the global Church with stories of faith, perseverance and transformation that are happening in Bible translation. Her ongoing experiences in South America are a testament to the ripple effects of trusting God with our lives. As we reflect on these narratives, we are reminded that we are all part of a greater mission: To make His name known among the nations.

1 Corinthians 12:12 (NLT) affirms, “The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body. So it is with the body of Christ.” Each of us plays a vital role in advancing God’s Kingdom here on earth. Whether you partner with the ministry of Wycliffe missionaries, advocate for Bible translation or share stories of transformation within your local church, your unique gifts and talents are essential to ensuring that every person has access to Scripture.

Let’s all embrace our role in God’s mission and celebrate the incredible ways that He is at work in the hearts and lives of His people around the world today!

Many people who live and work on the island of Ambon off the coast of Papua in Indonesia embrace the daily rhythm of fishing. In these villages, each person plays a role in providing for the community — even the women and children who gather at the shore, waiting for the day’s catch. Indonesia is a collectivist culture; whether it’s religion, relationships or a livelihood like fishing, the focus is on the group and the greater good, not on the individual.

Ampi isn’t a fisherman; he took on a different calling that brought great value to his community — one with the power to shape his community for generations to come. Ampi served as part of the Ambonese Malay Bible translation team, working to bring translated Scripture to his people.

When people finally understand God’s truth in the language that resonates with their hearts, communities are strengthened and churches grow. God’s Word changes everything. That’s why the Ambonese Malay translation team devoted themselves to Bible translation work: They were driven by the hope that one day everyone in their community would have the chance to encounter God through His Word in the Ambonese Malay language.

Translating Scripture for Understanding

For over 13 years this multinational team has been working to translate the New Testament into the Ambonese language. Though the Ambonese have had access to the Bible in Indonesian for many years, its message hasn’t stuck. They might understand it, but it doesn’t click in the same way as their primary language.

“It’s important to have the Ambonese translation for those who don’t have a high education, so they can clearly understand what is in God’s Word, and what his truth is for them and their lives,” Ampi said. “When they read it everybody says, ‘Oh yes, there is a good use for having this. We can understand God’s Word.’”

The team approached Ampi four years ago to help them test one of their translated passages and make sure it was accurate and sounded natural. They quickly discovered Ampi had the skills for translation and asked him to join the team.

“The Ambonese Malay team, to me, … is just like my family at home. We’re always sharing with one another, and we feel like a family,” Ampi said. “We enjoy joking with one another, having a good time with each other. Myself, I like to make the team laugh so that we’re more energized to keep working and keep going.”

A Community Effort to Bring Scripture to Life

Just like a good team that has different crucial members, a good Bible translation in this culture needs several key players. To truly be accepted, the translation team can’t function autonomously; it’s part of a larger body that includes the local community around it.

Since Indonesia is a collectivist culture, people study Scripture almost exclusively as a group, either at Sunday services or as a family. It would be rare to see an Ambonese retreating away for a “quiet time alone with God” as we often do in our culture.

So what better way for a translation team to help a community experience the Scriptures together than to involve them in the process? Once a story or passage is drafted, the translation team invites people from the neighborhood to help them check their work.

“Part of the process we go through after the initial draft is … to do a check with them, just making sure everything is clear and natural. We’ll go through verse-by-verse, asking comprehension questions,” said Carrie, one of the team’s translation coordinators.

“The first time we did a test with the community, there was a certain man who participated,” recalled Ocha Hitalessy. “We asked him, ‘Sir, why are you crying? Have you not known about Jesus Christ before now?’ He said,

As community members experience the Scriptures in their language through checking sessions, they share the stories and passages with their families and neighbors. News of the translated Scriptures and the principles they teach begins to spread.

As community members engaged with Scripture in their own language, they began sharing what they learned with their families and neighbors. But for the Ambonese Malay Scripture to truly take root, one more key partnership was foundational — the local church.

The Role of the Church in Bible Translation

The translation team operated under the umbrella of the Protestant Church of Maluku, the local church (denomination) with congregations in Ambon and the surrounding province. A review team of pastors checks all of the work they’ve done. Pastors typically preach using Indonesian, and in the past they didn’t have much vision for Bible translation or feel a need to learn the minority languages that the Scriptures were being translated into.

“Ambonese Malay has been the bridge that has allowed the church leadership to see what it is that we do, how Bible translation is done and that it can be trusted,” Stephanie, the translation team leader, said. “They know that we’ll be faithful to the text.

“We work very hard when we’re translating to make sure that it’s accurate with God’s Word,” Ampi shared, “and that we don’t change any of the meaning in the original text so that when people read it they will say, ‘Oh yes, this is accurate. This is God’s Word.’”

One of Stephanie’s greatest joys was when the church asked her team to translate their liturgy into Ambonese: “That’s key here. Christianity came to this region four centuries ago, so it’s long-rooted in tradition. To worship in Ambon, you need liturgy, songs and Scripture. If we didn’t provide all three in some form, they wouldn’t use the [translated] Scripture in church. We take every opportunity we can to meet felt needs of local churches and other organizations.”

This translation doesn’t belong to Wycliffe or any outside group — it’s the Ambonese people’s translation. The goal was always to serve, equip and train local translators so they can continue the work themselves.

A strong translation team is meant to be sustainable, ensuring that the work doesn’t rely on one person. When those who have been trained can confidently carry the work forward on their own, the mission is being accomplished.

Integration and Generational Impact

As the translation of God’s Word reaches completion, the greatest impact happens when the local church and community embrace Scripture in their language, allowing it to take root and transform lives. Stephanie noted:

“If there’s a foreign organization giving this church a Bible in their language, there’s no telling what will be done with it. They might just put it aside,” Stephanie continued. “Because this church is so involved in this New Testament translation … we have some assurance that they’re going to be using it in the future.”

Ampi was thrilled to know that he could bring the Ambonese Malay translation back to his family and his fishing village, and that they’d be able to use it: “My family would understand the results of our work very well. It makes me very happy to be part of this team.

“It brings me a lot of joy thinking about the results of this translation work, knowing generations ahead will be able to read the Scriptures.”

Opportunities for Your Church

Bible translation isn’t just about words on a page — it’s about transformation. When people receive God’s Word in their own language, it takes root in their hearts, strengthens their faith and equips people to share the gospel. The Ambonese Malay translation is a reflection of what can happen when churches and communities come together to ensure Scripture is understood, embraced and passed on to future generations.

As the body of Christ, we are called to build one another up, working together to strengthen the global Church and steward God’s Word well. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NLT) reminds us, “So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.” Many churches worldwide are already advocating for Bible translation. How could you and your church come alongside them?

A church relationship facilitator can help you explore what partnership could look like for your church — whether it’s through prayer, advocacy or direct involvement in supporting Bible translation efforts. How will you take part in bringing God’s Word to those still waiting?

It’s one thing to tell them, but it’s another to help that truth come alive in a way that captures their imagination. That’s where Kate and Mack come in. Kate is a missionary kid, and Mack is her faithful parrot friend. As Kate and Mack explore new places and cultures, kids will learn about God's great love for all people and why everyone needs a Bible they can understand. Get ready for laughter, fun and unforgettable experiences as you dive into different cultures, learn their languages and traditions and, most importantly, share the love of God.

Here are three simple ways to use Kate & Mack resources to help kids from kindergarten through fifth grade marvel at God’s heart for the world and discover their role in His mission.

1. Read and Discuss God’s Word

One of the best ways for kids to understand God’s love for the world is to explore it in Scripture. John 3:16 (NIV) reminds us of this truth:

After reading John 3:16 in a language that resonates with your heart, take the conversation deeper by asking questions to kids like:

• What does this verse tell us about God’s love?
• Why do you think it’s important that everyone can understand the Bible in their own language?
• How can we share God’s love with people near and far?

God’s love isn’t limited to one group of people or one place — it is for everyone, everywhere. To help kids better engage with this topic, we’ve developed a bunch of special resources encouraging them to ask questions, dive into what the Bible says about God’s love and see why it’s so important for everyone to have the Bible in a language they understand.

Free Activity Spotlight: The Bible and the World

In this activity, kids get a glimpse of how the Bible has impacted the world and cultures. Then they get to think about why the Bible is important to them personally. You can download “The Bible and the World” activity right now!

By connecting biblical values with real-world people, places and languages, kids can understand missions not as something distant but as something they can take part in today through God’s Word.

2. Pray for People Around the World

Prayer is one of the most powerful ways any of us can engage with God’s mission. Through prayer, kids can develop a heart for others and learn to care about people beyond their immediate communities.

Here’s a way to help kids understand the world on a tangible level, making prayer more feasible and interactive:

• Choose a country or people group to pray for this week.
• Locate the region or country on a map, and take some time to do some research about that place. Encourage them (and yourself!) to learn one fact about the culture or language. What’s something that makes this place and people special?
• Ask God to help the people there learn about Him through His Word.

To make this even easier for you, we’ve built resources that offer age-appropriate ways to guide children in chatting with God like a best friend and loving people who don’t yet have Scripture in their language.

Free Activity Spotlight: Pray for People Around the World

In this activity, you’ll learn how to pray for people worldwide, including those still waiting for the Bible in their language. Discover how prayer connects us to God, how He listens and responds and how your prayers can make a difference. You can download “How to Pray for People Around the World” now!

Prayer helps kids understand that missions isn’t just about going; it’s also about supporting and caring for others through prayer.

3. Experience the World With Kate & Mack

Kids love to learn through stories and hands-on experiences. What kid does not want to watch a fun animated adventure inviting them to explore places in Africa or the Pacific?

Through these curated lessons, kids can:

• Watch videos that introduce them to different cultures and languages.
• Try crafts and recipes from around the world, helping them connect with other cultures in a tangible way.
• Play games and activities that reinforce the idea that God’s love is for everyone.

Free Resource Spotlight: Kate & Mack Videos

A great way to start the adventure of traveling the world virtually is by watching the Kate & Mack videos to help set the stage for kids to learn about people and places everywhere. You can sign up to access videos today!

These interactive experiences bring missions to life so kids can understand how God loves all people, no matter where they live or what language they use.

Start an Adventure Today

Kate & Mack resources are designed to help kids develop a heart for God’s mission so that it is not just something they learn about but something they want to be part of.

Help kids discover that God’s love reaches every corner of the world — and that everyone needs to know His love in their own language. Kate & Mack provide fun, interactive ways to help children explore what it means to love people the way God does and understand the importance of Bible translation.

These materials are free and flexible, designed to engage kids and equip them to grow in their faith. They are perfect for:

• Sunday school classes
• Vacation Bible School
• Family discipleship at home

God is on the move to make His love known to every person, in every language. By using these tools, you can help the next generation understand God’s love for all people and their role in sharing His Word with the world.

Throughout the Bible, women played a vital role in God’s plan. In the Old Testament, women like Miriam, Deborah and Esther led and interceded for God’s people. In the New Testament, Mary Magdalene was the first to proclaim the resurrection, Priscilla helped teach and disciple others and Lydia used her resources to support the early Church.

Women have been instrumental in carrying out God’s mission. Yet in many communities today, women face barriers to accessing Scripture for themselves. Whether due to lack of education, societal challenges or limited resources, their ability to grow in their faith can often be hindered.

So how can women today leverage their skills and resources for the Kingdom of God? Humbelina’s story is an example of how one ordinary woman in Peru can have a ripple effect in her community by sharing the love of God through literacy programs.

A Heart for Literacy: Humbelina’s Story

Humbelina sat, puzzled, with a pile of pencils. She had come to a village near her own hometown in Peru to lead a “Women of the Bible” workshop — a study that focuses on the roles of 17 women in Scripture. About 100 Huallaga Quechua women had gathered to participate in the study designed to teach comprehension and application in their own language.

But when Humbelina tried to pass out worksheets and pencils, the women didn’t seem interested. “Well, we’ll take the worksheets,” they said, intending to take them home for their kids to play with instead of using them for the study. But not a single woman took a pencil from Humbelina.

Her heart sank. “How many of you know how to read and write?” she asked. Of the 100 women in attendance, six raised their hands.

“I realized in that moment, ‘Oh my, we are in trouble. We are on the cusp of receiving the entire Bible in our language, and this many people don’t know how to read?’ It was a burden on my heart,” she said, through tears. “How could I let this be?” She thought about the translation team — families she knew who had given so much of their lives to translate the Scriptures. “How could we just let it fall?"

Humbelina returned to her community, devastated. Feeling helpless, she and other women began praying, asking God what they could do about this great need for literacy. God answered Humbelina repeatedly, “You will be useful! I can use you. I will use you.”

An Unexpected Call

Humbelina never anticipated a life in ministry. When she was young, her parents wanted nothing to do with the church. She went to school to learn to be a seamstress and planned to make a living happily using her sewing skills.

It wasn’t until she met her husband, a Quechua Bible translator, that she began to consider God’s love for her and His mission in the world. She never would have imagined that God would invite her to be part of that mission through her heart for educating women in her community.

With her new passion for literacy, Humbelina and her team created Huallaga Quechua primers for preliteracy and basic literacy needs. Once participants complete both primers, their reading level becomes high enough to do the “Women of the Bible” study. The literacy team teaches students in classes, on the radio and through one-on-one lessons.

Embracing and Discipling Women: Inspiring Leonarda

Humbelina remembered one student in particular, a woman named Leonarda who was greatly impacted by literacy training. She recalled how, “She came to the training, but she concerned me. She always seemed very hard and cold. [So] I prayed for her.” The following transformation was a testament to the work of the Holy Spirit in Leonarda’s life.

After the workshop, Humbelina saw Leonarda in the community — and Leonarda had completely changed. She was sitting and reading with some older friends. And when she saw Humbelina, she jumped up to greet her and introduced Humbelina to her friends as “the sister who taught me to read.”

Leonarda’s excitement overflowed into her other relationships. She didn’t keep her knowledge to herself; she shared it with others. “You could see the joy in her face and hear it in her voice when she talked to me,” Humbelina said. “Here she was sharing what she learned, reading it to the older ladies.”

As Leonarda spent time learning to read God’s Word, it transformed all aspects of her life. Leonarda also started singing worship songs at church in Quechua, helping others worship in their own language. Sharing this education with others offered an ongoing purpose for Humbelina and Leonarda. Humbelina said: “Our desire is to keep bringing the Word of God in the mother tongue so people can understand it.”

These women understood the value in passing on the blessing of education that they had received. Humbelina understood that her role in God’s mission started with offering literacy training and became so much more:

Women Empowering Women Through God’s Word

When women like Humbelina and Leonarda engage with Scripture in their own language, it changes their families, churches and entire communities. God calls all people — men and women — to be disciples who make more disciples. When people receive the Bible in their language and engage with it, the gospel can take root in hearts and lives, creating lasting change.

Literacy is more than just a skill — it can be a doorway to deeper faith and ministry. When people can read and engage with the Bible, they are invited into a closer relationship with God. Hebrews 10:23-25 (NLT) reminds us of the calling to encourage and motivate others as part of the body of Christ:

This is what discipleship looks like: trusting God, encouraging and sharing with others, and equipping them to do the same. Discipleship can happen in everyday moments — in our conversations, our interactions with others and our investment in God’s Kingdom. It happens when women like Humbelina see a need in their community and embrace God’s calling, with others following in their footsteps.

Be an Advocate for the Next Generation

You too can be part of sharing God’s love with the world. God is working through people in powerful ways, reaching their families, their communities and even entire nations with His Word.

You can be a part of the global Bible translation movement when you partner with churches and like-minded organizations who are translating Scripture for their communities. By investing in others — sharing your talents and resources and saying “yes” to God’s call — you can empower future generations with access to God’s Word. Advocacy is a key part of this mission. You can:

• Pray for women who are seeking to grow in their faith and share God’s Word.
• Support translation projects that equip women to engage with Scripture.
• Raise awareness about the importance of Bible translation and how it leads to discipleship.
• Encourage women in your life to step into their God-given calling.

How will you share the love of God today?

This is the future we glimpse in Revelation 7:9, when people from every nation will stand together before God’s throne.

This isn’t just a distant vision — it’s a promise. And it’s coming closer to reality with every step we take to help bring God’s Word to those still waiting.

Looking Back to Move Forward

How do we get to that day? To answer that, we must look back to where it all began. Before Jesus ascended to heaven, He left us with a clear command: “… Go and make disciples of all the nations …” (Matthew 28:19, NLT). From that moment, His followers embraced the mission, spreading the Good News across the world. Yet today, thousands of language communities are still waiting to have and understand that message in their own words.

Wycliffe has spent over 80 years answering this call, equipping and sending people to help bring Scripture to those without it. But in 1999, we realized that at the current pace, some languages wouldn’t even begin the translation process for another 150 years. That timeline was unacceptable.

We asked God for wisdom, for a new way forward. That’s when Vision 2025 was born — a bold, audacious commitment to see a translation program in progress in every language still needing one by the year 2025.

A Vision Unfolding

Fast forward to today, and the impact of Vision 2025 is undeniable. The number of languages still waiting for Scripture is lower than ever before, and translation progress continues to accelerate.

Yet the work isn’t finished yet. This mission requires all of us. When we step out in faith — whether through prayer, giving or advocacy — we become part of something eternal. Every “yes” matters. Every effort moves us closer to the day when all people can know and experience the love of Christ through His Word.

More Than Numbers — It’s About People

It’s easy to see statistics and forget that behind each number is a person, a family, a community. It’s a grandmother teaching her grandchildren the words of Jesus in their own language. It’s a church leader preaching from Scripture that finally speaks to his heart. It’s a child hearing, for the first time, that they are loved by God.

For generations, these communities have longed to know the fullness of God’s love through His Word. Some have clung to fragmented portions of Scripture, treasuring every word, while others have only had bits and pieces passed down through oral tradition.

Bible translation isn’t just about making words available — it’s about lives being transformed. It’s about a father discovering hope, a pastor strengthening his congregation and entire families encountering the living God in a way that touches their hearts.

One day, in eternity, you may stand next to someone who heard the gospel because of a choice you made today — someone whose life was changed because you prayed, gave or shared the vision of Bible translation with others. Someone who will look at you and say, “Thank you. Because you said yes, I now know Jesus.”

Looking Toward the Future

The Great Commission calls each of us to be part of something bigger than ourselves. Every yes moves us closer to a world where no one is left waiting for God’s Word. But this isn’t just a call to action — it’s a call to transformation, for both those who receive the Word and those who help bring it.

As we look ahead, imagine the future unfolding before us. Picture communities that once had no Scripture now gathering in churches, teaching their children the gospel in their language and sending out their own missionaries to reach others still waiting. This is the movement God is building, and we have the privilege of being part of it.

So what role will you play? Will you say yes to praying for those still waiting? Will you step out in faith and give, knowing your generosity helps bring the Bible to those who have never had it before? Will you advocate for this mission, inviting others into this incredible story of transformation?

Pray

Through prayer, you participate with local churches around the world, thanking God for what He’s doing as His Word is translated into the languages best understood by the people they love and serve. You also go before God on behalf of these communities, asking Him to empower and equip His people so that everyone can encounter Him through Scripture and be transformed.

Join the Wycliffe Prayer Community

Link arms with the global Church and pray for active Bible translation projects around the world. Through the Wycliffe Prayer Community, you’ll receive daily opportunities to pray for timely requests directly from the translation teams and those they serve.

Join the community!

Give

As we look forward to the day when all communities have Scripture, you have the privilege of participating through your giving! Whose life will change because you gave out of a heart of biblical stewardship and generosity? Together we want to be all in — whether that means supporting the start of translation in a language for the very first time or ensuring that the work continues to completion rather than pausing due to a lack of funding.

Share God’s Word Today

As local church-led Bible translation teams and other partners are following God’s lead to provide His Word to their own people, we get to come alongside them with the resources they need to succeed. Your giving — whether to a specific project, missionary or wherever most needed — helps sustain Bible translation so that Scripture can effectively be used for evangelism, discipleship, church planting and more, resulting in changed lives. We don’t want anyone to miss out on the life-transforming power of the Bible!

Learn more about how your giving can impact Bible translation.

Advocate

Imagine a world where every person can engage with God’s Word! This is a once-in-eternity opportunity to be a part of seeing Bible translation start for the very first time in the last remaining languages still waiting. As God raises up His Church around the globe, He’s inviting each one of us to be involved in this moment.

You can be a part of inviting your community — your family, friends, Bible study group, church and more — to join in this transformational work.

Living in Light of God’s Promise

We aren’t just working toward a goal; we are stepping into a future worth saying yes to. The Great Commission requires all of us, and as the body of Christ, we have the privilege of joining hands in a united yes!

What story is God writing in your life today? Your story not only intersects with His story but also with the stories of those you’ll one day worship beside in His presence.

With this vision in our hearts, let’s step out together in bold faith and ask God to go before us as we work toward:

• Seeing Bible translation start for every language still needing it.
• Making Scripture available so that every man, woman and child can encounter Jesus and understand His love in a way that transforms their lives forever.
• Equipping the Church for evangelism, discipleship and church planting.

Who will you meet in heaven because you said yes?

Meet Ed! Ed and Beth Brye have served in Bible translation for more than 35 years. Ed has served in a variety of ways with Wycliffe, using his gifts and experiences to speak at events, coordinate linguistic assessment efforts, arrange instructors for Perspectives classes and contribute to strategic initiatives. In his current role, he connects with people who are considering their own journey to missions.

Twenty-five years ago, the Bryes took on a massive task: They contributed to Bible translation survey work in 45 language communities, which led to the start of multiple translation projects across Cameroon.

In December 2024 Ed, Beth and their family had the opportunity to return to Cameroon to attend the New Testament dedications of six people groups in the Misaje Cluster they had worked with years before — the Chung, Naami, Mungong Kemedzung, Sari and Ncane. Ed shared about his recent experience at the dedications.

All Scripture for All People

Everyone deserves to know and understand God’s great love for them personally. That’s why we want to see all Scripture made available for all people. Local churches are asking us to train them, journey with them and assist with resources — at a pace we’ve never experienced before!

In Matthew 28:19-20a Jesus commanded His disciples: “… Go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you” (NLT). Local church leaders recognize that a lack of Scripture is a barrier to fulfilling the Great Commission through evangelism, discipleship, church planting and other forms of ministry. Ed said, “To be discipled, people need God’s Word, which is the objective source.” He continued:

A Time to Celebrate

The six communities that dedicated the New Testaments in Cameroon are unique: They all began Bible translation projects on the same day in 2011! Thirteen years later, all 23 translators who attended the initial training and worked on the translation projects together were present at the dedication!

When people encounter Jesus through Scripture, their lives are transformed forever. This is what drives us every day! Before, these groups accessed Scripture at church in English or Pidgin. But now they have Scripture in a language and format they clearly understand.

The New Testaments were prominently displayed during the dedications and represent hope for the six people groups as they continue to overcome challenges and heal from trauma. Ed said, “[For these communities] the New Testaments will become instruments of peace.”

A Global, Collaborative Community

As we work toward the day when everyone has God's Word in their language, we build relationships across countries and cultures in a global community. While back in Cameroon, Ed was able to reconnect with team members he worked with years ago, including leaders and community members. He had the chance to talk with the people who had partnered and collaborated with him as he and his team carried out tasks. This is an example of the body of Christ at work through Bible translation!

The work of Bible translation is an example of how God is on the move, bringing the global Church together. Although the journey to completing the New Testaments was met with challenges and unrest, God did abundantly more than we can imagine to accomplish His work in the Misaje Cluster of Cameroon. Now local churches are poised and ready to bring Scripture to their own communities in their own languages.

Celebrating Together

During the dedication, each people group had the opportunity to celebrate by presenting music, dancing and speeches to commemorate the occasion. A symbolic ceremony demonstrated their reverence for God’s Word, as well as the peace and hope of His promises. They rejoiced over what God has done in their communities because they have access to His Word in a language that is clear and natural to them. After experiencing the joy of the dedication, Ed said, “[It was] a good reminder of the treasure I have [in God’s Word]!”

Coordinators, linguists, advisors and representatives from multiple organizations shared in the enthusiasm. During the dedication speeches, organizational and community leaders recognized the Brye family’s work and contributions to surveys and assessments 25 years earlier. Ed said:

More people are receiving Scripture in their language, but there is still work to do! That’s what Vision 2025 is all about: to have a translation program in progress in every language still needing one by the year 2025. But praise God, the work is accelerating as local churches play a significant role!

We look forward to the day that is promised in Revelation 7:9 when people from every nation, people group and language will stand before God’s throne! For Ed, this verse is an encouragement:

Your Next Steps

God has invited us to be a part of making His name known among the nations, and you too could be a part of seeing Scripture made available for all communities still waiting. When you serve with us, your contributions will have a tangible and eternal impact as people encounter Jesus and His love in a way that transforms their lives forever.

This term can sometimes make us feel a little possessive. Even children quickly learn to say, “Mine!”

But in the Bible translation space, we view ownership more along the lines of how Merriam-Webster defines it: “The quality or state of being accountable; responsibility.”

When someone is accountable and responsible for something, they have greater buy-in to see something accomplished. They feel a sense of ownership in the most positive ways. It’s not just a “mine” for an individual’s sake but an “ours” for a community’s sake.

This approach is exactly what we’re seeing in the global Bible translation movement. For more than 80 years, Wycliffe and like-minded organizations have led efforts to advance Bible translation around the world. Until recently, Bible translation has been viewed as something that only linguistic experts with degrees could do.

But praise God, that’s changing! Today local churches are asking for — and even starting — Bible translation themselves. They don’t want to wait for the work to start; they want to start it now. And they want to start it now because they are owning the accountability and responsibility of seeing translation accomplished for their own communities.

This pivot in how Bible translation is initiated is accelerating the pace of the work in incredible ways! As a result, the work is moving faster than ever.

A Church-Owned Approach

Historically, Western missions was built upon the premise that people around the world needed to have the gospel brought to them. And that premise wasn’t wrong! But today, in a digitally connected world, there is a significant shift in the approach to global missions — and it’s impacting everything from Bible translation to Scripture engagement and more.

Today, local church leaders recognize that a lack of Scripture is a massive barrier to evangelism, discipleship, church planting and other forms of ministry. Rather than expect Western missions to close this gap, they want to close it themselves!

As churches increasingly take ownership and Bible translation accelerates, Wycliffe transitions to the critical role of catalyst in the movement worldwide. Decades of expertise strategically position us to support local leaders in accomplishing their vision through technology, resources and funding. This empowers the local church to own the work in their communities, countries and even entire regions.

One such region is the Pacific, where some of the highest remaining needs for Bible translation exist. This linguistically diverse part of the world experiences significant isolation and hardship. Because of the Pacific’s numerous islands, communities have been separated from each other, resulting in unique languages — sometimes just a few miles away from each other!

But interest is rapidly spreading across the Pacific in response to what God is doing. Churches, denominations and church networks aren’t willing to wait anymore for Scripture in their own languages. They deeply desire to see God’s Word made available in all of their communities so that people can be transformed.

Bible Translation Efforts in the Solomon Islands

Today there are more than 80 languages in the Solomon Islands. Of those, approximately half have experienced some translation work. But that doesn’t mean that translation work is always able to continue.

“My language is one of the hardest languages in the Solomon Islands,” said Rev. Hillary Bero, a Tuou translator and leader in the United Church of the Solomon Islands. “We don’t have any sister language that we can adapt from. It is our own language, and there is a great need for the people of my language to have our language translated within the Word of God and also through the hymns … in our mother tongue. And when the people start to use them, they can feel the presence and the power of God that is expressed through the words of our language.”

The local church in the Pacific is excited about translation and has said, “We want to do this!” A process has been developed in partnership with Every Tribe Every Nation (ETEN) to answer the question: “How can we leverage the competencies of local church pastors and their communities across the Pacific to lead translation at a pace that they determine and in the places where they want to start?”

Rev. Jo Tuitoga, a field coordinator with Global Partnerships, said: “I can see that one of the strengths of [church-based Bible translation] is bringing the translation work to the church to be part of their ministry.”

An Oral Culture Needs an Oral Bible

For a community to engage with Scripture, it needs to be available in a language and format they clearly understand. In the Solomon Islands, literacy rates are very low, so providing a written translation of Scripture wouldn’t make it accessible to people.

But a few years ago, American Bible Society created a software called the Audio Visual Translation Tool. This interface has been modified to meet the needs of remote communities that may not have internet or local power so that their translation work can be accomplished.

This tool equips translators to bring God’s Word to life through audio — a culturally appropriate way of conveying stories and significance through oral communication.

“[The translation] fits well because of the custom story we engage [with] at home,” said Sister Cecilia Legani, a Savosavo translator. “Every evening we go to grandmother — we listen to the grandmother — as she tells us the custom story. And we relate to this. … [It] means something that we capture, we’ll never forget it. It stays with us. We go out to the village, sharing the Good News with people, and that Good News itself will speak to the people, and it will change the people.”

The church isn’t asking for a lesser-quality translation of the Bible. They are merely asking to see the work accelerated so that their people can have access to God’s Word in a way that captures their hearts and transforms their lives forever! That’s why we’re working together to ensure that communities receive a quality translation of Scripture — one that is clear, natural and understandable — so that they can experience Jesus personally.

A Call For Us All

It takes all of us to see God’s Word made available in languages around the world. Each of us has a role to play, including you!

“What excites me most is the collaborative work that we’ve done together,” said Rev. Dr. Edward Kolohai. “You people from the global North and for us in the global South, we work together in order to improve the standard of our knowledge about the Bible and how we look at issues around us.”

In 1 Corinthians 12:27, Paul writes: “All of you together are Christ’s body, and each of you is a part of it” (NLT; emphasis added). Our parts might look different, but they all add up to one body of Christ. In the Kingdom, 1 + 1 + 1 + 1 + …. (you fill in the number) doesn’t equal some ever-increasing number. It all adds up to one body — Christ’s body.

So what part do you play? Perhaps you’re gifted in …

• Linguistics and you want to use your academic knowledge to further the Kingdom. Then explore what it might look like to serve in a strategic role!
• Intercessory prayer and you feel called by God to approach His throne on behalf of people. Then join the Wycliffe Prayer Community and intercede for brothers and sisters around the world who need your prayers for their families and their work.
• Encouraging people to take action and join a cause. Then look at all the ways you can invite people to participate — whether in your own family, community or church — to be part of this Kingdom work.
• Finances and generating wealth. Then explore how God might be using you to financially steward what He’s provided to make a Kingdom impact.

There’s no right or wrong way to participate in this work. God calls each of us to find our best fit and do something with the time, talents and treasures He’s given us to steward on this side of eternity.

One day we’ll have the joy and privilege of worshipping alongside people from every nation and language, knowing that we played a part in seeing the gospel go out to the furthest corners of the globe. What an incredible day that will be!

The practices of praise and prayer are central to everything we do. They are the heartbeat of our conversations with a living and active God; they nourish our relationship with Him and bring clarity and hope to our lives.

We see this all throughout Scripture. The Old Testament is filled with beautiful accounts of God’s people both offering Him praise and asking Him to move. Jesus modeled for His disciples what prayer should look like, and He regularly spent intentional time with the Father in prayer. He also spent time intentionally praising the Father for all He had done.

Across Wycliffe’s history, if we were to trace the ways He’s moved with the prayers that have been prayed over the decades, I’m sure we would all be encouraged. Sometimes God has said yes to our requests; other times He’s said no. Still other times He’s said, “I have something in store that hasn’t even crossed your minds. Watch Me move!”

We believe we’re in a season where God is pouring out His Spirit in ways that we’ve never experienced before. At the same time, things that have been hard are getting harder. The remaining language communities that don’t have God’s Word today are unreached for a reason.

Many of them are isolated geographically or in environments that are simply difficult. Others are located in areas where people practice religions and beliefs that are strongly opposed to the gospel message. But God is at work, even in these hard-to-reach communities!

Your prayers continue to be a vital part of this work. Together, with hearts overflowing with praise and prayer, we can intercede before God’s throne and ask Him to move in ways that we can’t even begin to imagine, for His glory and the good of His global Church!

3 Easy Ways to Pray for the Nations

1. Pray for People by Name

What and who are you praying for? Your family is likely at the top of that list, followed by friends and others in your community. And if you pray for people specifically by name, your list likely goes on and on — for good reason! Prayer is an essential conversation with God; through it, we have the opportunity to praise His name, present our requests, receive His guidance and deepen our relationship with Him.

We’d love for you to join us in also praying for our brothers and sisters in Christ around the world. Through prayer, we’re given the opportunity to link arms with them, asking God to move, to heal, to provide, to sustain, to transform and more.

If you know someone that you specifically want to pray for, pray for them by name! And if you don’t know, remember Romans 8:26b-27: “We don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will” (NLT).

We believe that prayer is powerful and transforms lives. May we all experience moments where we can clearly see His hand at work both in our lives and in the lives of His people everywhere!

Your Next Step: Join the Wycliffe Prayer Community

Link arms with others in the global Church to pray for active Bible translation projects around the world. In addition to the requests from translators and other partners in the field, you’ll find written stories, photos and videos to help you feel connected to the people you’re praying for!

Join the Wycliffe Prayer Community today to begin receiving daily opportunities to pray for others who are at various points in the Bible translation journey as they pursue a day when Scripture is available in their language.

Join the Wycliffe Prayer Community today!

Praise & Prayer

Lord Jesus,

We come before You with hearts full of gratitude and awe. Thank You for the boundless love You showed through the gift of Your Son, Jesus — love so extravagant that it reached across eternity to rescue and redeem us.

We praise You for seeing each one of us, for knowing us fully and for pursuing us with such intentional love. We are humbled that You, the Creator of all, would draw us close, calling us by name and saying we’re Yours.

May our lives be a reflection of this love, sharing it with those around us so that others, too, may encounter the deep, unchanging love of Jesus. Help us to remember to pray for the day when all people — every man, woman and child — is able to understand Your transforming love for themselves. Amen.

2. Pray for Communities Around the World

The Apostle Paul, speaking to people in Athens, said: “From one man he created all the nations throughout the whole earth. He decided beforehand when they should rise and fall, and he determined their boundaries. His purpose was for the nations to seek after God and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him—though he is not far from any one of us. For in him we live and move and exist” (Acts 17:26-28a, NLT).

God created communities and nations to draw us to Him, and He has you in your community for a purpose. But as part of His global Church, we also get the incredible privilege of playing a role in advancing His purposes for other communities around the world!

Prayer is foundational to seeing all people from every community encounter Jesus through Scripture. Through prayer, you also participate with local churches around the world by thanking God for what He’s doing as His Word is translated into the languages and formats best understood by the people they love and serve.

Your Next Step: Global Prayer List

The Global Prayer List is a comprehensive set of updated prayer needs — directly from the field — representing different regions and language communities around the world. It’s updated each month so that you’ll have the opportunity to bring the most timely requests before the Lord on behalf of the communities engaged with active Bible translation projects. Use the list on your own, with your family or in a small group!

Download the Global Prayer List today!

Praise & Prayer

Father God,

You’ve called your Church to make disciples of all nations, and we gladly accept this invitation. We know You long for people from every language to understand the Bible and be transformed.

Please equip your Church to make all Scripture available to all people. We recognize that we are completely dependent on You to see this accomplished, and we pray with expectation and anticipation for the joy set before us.

May Your name be lifted high as we — the body of Christ all over the world — humbly seek Your face, asking You to do more than we can even begin to imagine so that all people can encounter You through Scripture. This is all for You, Lord — for Your glory and the good of Your people everywhere. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

3. Praise God for His Faithfulness

Jesus modeled for His disciples what prayer should look like, and He regularly spent intentional time with the Father in prayer. That said, He also dedicated time to intentionally praise the Father for all He had done.

Psalm 103:1-2 says, “Let all that I am praise the LORD; with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name. Let all that I am praise the LORD; may I never forget the good things he does for me” (NLT).

As disciples of Jesus, it’s essential that we follow His lead in offering praise for the blessings we experience! It’s the act of intentionally stopping to acknowledge: “God, we see how You showed up in that situation or circumstance. Thank you!” At Wycliffe, we call this practice “God Sightings,” and we invite you to make this practice an intentional, consistent part of your life.

Your Next Step: God Sightings Among the Nations

We encourage you to sign up for weekly “God Sightings” text messages to keep you informed, inspired and encouraged by the latest news. Each week, you’ll receive an update on what God is doing around the world — directly to your phone — with specific things to not only pray for but also for which to give thanks!

Join us in praying for God’s name to be made known among the nations through the work of Bible translation and in praising Him for His faithfulness yesterday, today and forever.

Text SIGHTINGS to 407-358-0916.

Praise & Prayer

Father God,

As we look at what’s taking place in the Bible translation movement, we see Your fingerprints everywhere:

• Your Spirit being poured out upon the earth.
• Your heart on display as Your name is made known among the nations in the languages and formats that resonate with people’s hearts.
• Your Church responding to Your call, united and collaborating so that every man, woman and child can understand personally the transforming power of the gospel.

The Bible translation movement is filled with incredible only-God moments. We joyfully proclaim that we serve an awesome God! May we not just be witnesses to what You are doing but proclaimers of the ways we see You at work. We love You, Lord. Amen.

Simple Ways to Pray for Bible Translation

Want to pray more generally for Bible translation? Here are a few simple ways you can join us in prayer:

• Pray for the local church to not only desire Scripture in a language and format they can clearly understand but also to desire significant involvement in the work.
• Pray for collaboration and unity as Bible translation agencies, church denominations, local leaders and others work together to create strategies and plans that reach communities with Scripture.
• Pray for open doors at both the local and national level. Pray that God would go before His Church to open doors for Bible translation in the last remaining languages as He deems best.
• Pray for our partners — in prayer, funding, strategy, translation, Scripture engagement and more — to come together with a single focus: to see God’s name made known among the nations!
• Pray for the harvest and for the laborers. We know that Revelation 7:9-10 promises a day when every “nation and tribe and people and language” will stand before the throne worshipping. That vision is becoming reality before our eyes today! But the work isn’t done yet; there’s still much to do. May we all be faithful to the roles God has called us to, working toward a day when people from every language will understand the Bible and be transformed.

There’s no limit to the ways we can engage in this ongoing conversation with God! Thank you for partnering with us in praying for a day when every man, woman and child are able to encounter Jesus through Scripture in a language and format they can clearly understand. What a glorious day it will be when all people — from every nation and tribe — worships before the Lamb together.

Lent is a 40-day period of fasting, prayer and reflection observed by Christians around the world that prepares our hearts for Easter. More than just a routine, the Lenten season offers us a unique opportunity to pause, create space for God to work in our lives and reflect on our relationship with Jesus.

Lent is the perfect opportunity to remember when God’s Word first came alive for you. Here are three ways you can prepare your heart for the season.

1. Reflect on Why Lent Matters

In a fast-paced world filled with distractions, Lent calls us to slow down and refocus. It offers a sacred pause — a chance to reflect on Jesus’ journey to the cross, His sacrifice and the hope of His resurrection. Observing Lent helps us prepare our hearts for Easter in a meaningful way, reminding us of the transformative power of God and His Word.

For many believers, Lent is an opportunity to re-center our lives on Christ. As we read about Jesus’ final meal with His disciples, His words during His trial and His final moments on the cross, we’re reminded of the profound depth of God’s love for us. He sacrificed His one and only Son so that we could have eternal life. Lent ends on Good Friday, and when we observe it, we are also reminded that Jesus’ death was not the end of the story — the beauty of Resurrection Sunday was just around the corner. Even though we will endure pain and mourning here on earth, the journey of Lent encourages us that God has the ultimate victory over sin and death!

When someone first encounters the truth of God through Scripture, they are often moved and transformed in powerful ways. Whether they’ve read only a single verse or the entire Bible, God’s Word inspires hope and healing in their lives. Think about what it would be like to finally experience the joy of Christ’s resurrection in your own language for the first time!

So as you read Scripture passages this Lenten season on your own or in your church that focus on Jesus’ life, death and resurrection, see how God is bringing the depth and beauty of Scripture to people all around the world too.

Holding a Bible in His Language for the First Time: Renato’s Story

There’s something special about the first time God’s Word comes alive. Renato Alonso, a Huallaga Quechua pastor in Peru, remembers when he bought a Bible in his language: “The very next day I brought the Bible to church. First I read it in Spanish, and then I read it in Quechua,” he said. “When I read it to the congregation in Quechua, the people in the church just became so happy! They said, ‘Pastor, thank you so much, because now we truly understand!’

Renato joined a translation team that was working to translate the Old Testament for Quechua languages. When he’s not preaching or translating, Renato uses Scripture to help kids learn about God and improve their reading.

“Many people have understood what it means to be saved because of the Scriptures in their language,” he said. “And their lives have changed dramatically.” For Renato and his community, reading the Bible in their own language allowed them to experience God in a whole new way.

2. Make Space for Spiritual Renewal

Lent isn’t just about giving something up: It’s about intentionally seeking God and asking Him to move in our hearts. For 40 days, we set aside the things that distract us in order to focus on what God wants from us. When we do so, He can awaken our hearts in new and profound ways. In the U.S., Easter arrives in the springtime; Lent takes us on a journey out of winter — out of darkness and uncertainty — and into a season of new life and growth.

Think about the joy of someone receiving the Bible in their own language for the first time — to them, God’s Word is fresh, vibrant and full of hope, like a spiritual springtime. Lent allows us to experience the freshness of God’s Word again, as if we were encountering it for the first time.

Seeing God’s Word Come Alive for the First Time: Pastor Montri’s Journey

Pastor Montri Siriwattanapaitoon has an exceptional gift for reading. He can read and understand the Scriptures in his second and third languages, Thai and English. But growing up Deaf, and as a follower of another major world religion, there was a time when he didn’t know anything about the Bible because it was not in his language — Thai Sign Language.

When Pastor Montri first attended a Deaf church, where the Deaf members also struggled to understand the Scriptures, experience showed him just how desperately the Thai Deaf need the Scriptures in their own language. Over time, as Pastor Montri studied the Bible more, he recognized his sin, saw his need for a Savior and accepted Christ. Pastor Montri said:

Now Pastor Montri serves as a team leader; he’s passionate about bringing God’s Word to life for the Thai Deaf community. The translation is making a huge impact, empowering Thai Deaf to understand, share and dwell on Scripture in their own language for the first time.

3. Return to When God’s Word First Spoke to You

What is a verse or passage of Scripture that has spoken to your heart and transformed you? Think about the moment when God’s Word became alive, personal and real.

Reflecting on Jesus’ final words this Lenten season can help us rediscover the depth of His love and mission. What He said leading up to the cross is not only a declaration of His purpose but an invitation to renew our faith and share His hope with the world.

Sharing a Verse for the First Time: The Zanaki Community of Tanzania

When Scripture is dedicated, it’s often the first opportunity that a community has to experience God’s Word in their own language. When the Zanaki community in Tanzania dedicated their New Testament last summer, a speaker selected Hebrews 4:12 for the first Scripture reading of the ceremony:

“For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires” (NLT).

Hundreds of people gathered on a soccer field to witness history in the making — their New Testament in Zanaki. The guest of honor at this celebration was the chief of the Zanaki tribe. He ended his speech by saying,

For the Zanaki community, that moment wasn’t just about receiving a book — it was about encountering God personally in their own language. Choosing Hebrews 4:12 reflected their belief in Scripture’s power to speak to their hearts, shape their faith and reveal truth to their community. Now, as they engage with the Bible in Zanaki, they have the opportunity to grow in their understanding of God and see His Word transform their community.

Rekindle Your Love for God’s Word

When was the last time you sat with Scripture long enough to allow it to illuminate your life or change your perspective?

Lent creates a space for the Holy Spirit to work in our hearts, renewing and refreshing us; it invites us to remember Jesus’ journey to the cross and engage with God’s Word intentionally.

As we read through Jesus’ final words on earth and hear them in our church services during this season, it can be easy to take our access to Scripture for granted. We often forget the privilege it is to have God’s Word in our own language. Michael and Jamie Higdon, partners with a Bible translation project in northwest Tanzania, realized this:

“Through our partnership with Wycliffe, the Lord has reminded us to cherish Scripture. We treasure the Word of God and have greater appreciation for every word because of our understanding of what it took [to have the Bible in our own language]. Frankly, it has forced us to recognize how we can take Scripture for granted, despite its ready availability to us.”

As you reflect on Jesus’ final words and their significance, consider how you can help others experience that same gift: the life-changing power of Scripture in a language they truly understand. May this Lenten season be a time of spiritual spring in your life — and the lives of people around the world.

Have you ever thought about the way you shape the world around you? Whether you realize it or not, your choices, words and faith influence those in your workplace, community and home. The way you respond under pressure, extend kindness or reflect peace speaks volumes — often louder than words.

As your relationship with the Lord grows, so does the fruit of the Spirit in your life: “… the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23a, NLT). This fruit doesn’t just impact our personal relationship with God: It has the power to shape culture, transform relationships and point others toward Christ.

The Enga people of Papua New Guinea are experiencing this firsthand.

A New Sound Rising in Papua New Guinea

In July 2024, a vibrant procession of people moved through the streets of Wabag, Papua New Guinea. Men, women and children — adorned in colorful traditional dress — danced, sang and beat traditional drums with joy. They were celebrating a truth that had finally found its home among them: God speaks our language.

For the first time in history, the 370,000 Enga speakers could read and hear the words of Jesus in their own language. Now Scripture is personal, clear and undeniably powerful.

The Enga people are known as influencers and leaders, shaping the culture of their province and the capital city of Port Moresby. As they immerse themselves in Scripture, a deeper transformation is happening: God’s Word is actively shifting people’s mindsets, redefining strength and breathing hope into their communities.

This is more than a Bible dedication. It is the beginning of a movement — one where Christ is shaping the Enga people and their culture through His Word.

Clear Communication: Reaching the Enga Community

“English is not our language,” Martin Harty, one Engan translator shared in reference to the challenges of understanding other translations, “and Pidgin is not our language [either]. Hearing and reading the Bible in Pidgin, the meaning of the Word of God is not very clear.”

Clarity is essential for transformation. For the Enga people, reading Scripture in an unfamiliar language made it difficult to grasp its full meaning, let alone share it with others. How can God’s Word truly shape people’s hearts and lives if they can’t fully understand its message? Whether it’s a parable or the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection, when Scripture is conveyed in a language that resonates with its audience, verses come alive.

Recognizing their need for Scripture, local Enga churches united in a collaborative effort to bring the Bible to their people. In July and August 2024, the translators, churches and Enga community gathered to celebrate the dedication of the Enga New Testament — a moment that would mark not just the completion of a translation but the beginning of a movement.

The Enga speakers, known as influencers and decision-makers in Port Moresby, now have the power to shape their nation in a whole new way. With God’s Word in their language, the impact they can make is world-changing.

Joyful Generosity in Action: The Enga New Testament Dedication

Because the Enga language in Papua New Guinea has speakers who are spread out across an entire province, the Enga New Testament was dedicated in seven different locations in July and August 2024. The main dedication was held on July 2, 2024, in Wabag, the capital of Enga Province.

The ceremony began with a parade through the town made up of Enga translators, church leaders and members, visitors from SIL (Wycliffe’s primary partner) and the Papua New Guinea Bible Translation Association (PNGBTA), overseas visitors and more than a dozen men, women, youth and children.

The parade ended at a grandstand in a field. Following a time of worship, representatives from the Enga translation team, the Enga government, churches, SIL, PNGBTA, local communities and overseas visitors gave speeches to acknowledge the significance of the event. The governor of Enga Province gave a rousing speech, encouraging people to use the newly translated Enga New Testament and to follow its teachings.

After the speeches and a prayer of dedication, the Enga church leaders from various denominations lined up on the field in front of the grandstand and faced the crowd. They were each given a printed copy of the Enga New Testament along with a solar-powered audio edition. After singing a traditional song, the Engans came forward to receive their items — officially delivering the newly translated New Testament into the hands of the Enga people.

God’s Word in Every Format

The Enga New Testament was sold in different formats: print, audio and digital. The solar-powered audio player was the most popular choice. Upon purchasing the Enga New Testament, people immediately began paging through the printed copies or listening to the audio with great interest. The Enga Bible app also had more than 1,700 downloads and installs in the months leading up to the dedication.

People received the newly translated Enga New Testament with joy. They are hungry to read and hear the New Testament in their own language.

At the other dedications, people were also excited to receive the New Testament in their own language. People purchased stacks of New Testaments to give to their friends and family who could not attend. The dedication in Port Moresby was even reported on a national news program, making it a great opportunity to raise awareness of God’s Word!

This wasn’t just about receiving a book — it was about encountering the living God. Enga translator, Maniosa Yakasa, shared his heart for his community:

Bible translation isn’t just about access — it’s about transformation.

Shaping Culture and Changing the World

Through Bible translation, the truth and love found in Scripture are bringing light to communities just like the Enga in ways that have never been possible before. Adam Boyd, chief communications officer of SIL PNG and Enga translation advisor, shared his perspective on the big picture of the Enga dedication: “… I think sometimes we forget that translation work is more than just translation. It’s about relationships. It’s about seeing lives transformed.”

The dedication of the Enga New Testament is more than a celebration of a completed translation — it is a testimony to the life-changing, culture-shaping power of God’s Word. As Enga believers engage with Scripture in their language for the first time, Christ is revolutionizing people’s faith and their communities, fostering peace in a culture of conflict and positioning the Enga as leaders who will shape their nation through His love.

Every interaction within your community — whether it’s your church, small group or friends — is an opportunity to make an eternal difference. By engaging with the life-changing Word of God, you reflect God’s character and help create lasting change.

Joining Hands for Bible Translation

The Enga translation project in Papua New Guinea is a testament to the impact that can happen when the body of Christ comes together in unity. Frank Paiyak, an Enga translator, said:

And outside of Papua New Guinea, people were supporting this Bible translation project too — they prayed regularly for the translators, shared updates with their congregations and even recorded videos of encouragement for the translation team. This collective effort accelerated the project’s progress and strengthened relationships across continents.

Supporting Bible translation is a tangible way to participate in God’s mission to reach the nations. Through prayer, partnership and action, we can all be part of God’s mission — because together we proclaim hope. You can extend God's love to people globally by supporting Bible translation. Becoming a monthly giving partner is one powerful way to do this, ensuring the gospel reaches more hearts and lives.

Reflecting on God’s Word

God’s Word is more than just a book — it shapes how we live, love and lead. “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path” (Psalm 119:105, NLT). Every time we open the Bible, the Holy Spirit works in us, refining our character and cultivating fruit.

When we allow His Word to guide our hearts and steps, we become living testimonies of His love. Choosing peace in the midst of conflict, patience in times of frustration and kindness in our daily interactions with others isn’t just about our personal spiritual growth; it’s about the Kingdom. Our words and actions here on earth have the opportunity to shape lives for eternity. Just as the Enga people are helping influence and reshape their culture to align with Scripture, we too can shape the world around us by walking with the Spirit.

As you celebrate with the Enga, pray for those who are still waiting to encounter God’s Word in their language. Ask the Lord to deepen His work in your own heart. As we live and love in light of His truth, the Holy Spirit will move through us, and the effects will extend far beyond what we can see!

When was the last time you attended a celebration? Maybe it was a recent birthday party, a baby shower or a holiday spent with family and friends. These are opportunities to rejoice, reminisce and look ahead to the future with the people we love.

But in the busyness of our day-to-day lives — with our responsibilities, deadlines and schedules — it can feel difficult to set aside intentional time to pause and celebrate milestones or achievements.

While God wants us to come to Him in prayer with our struggles, heartbreaks and requests, celebrating His goodness is also an important part of growing in our relationship with Him. Praise and worship remind us of God’s faithfulness; celebrating His steadfast love also helps to anchor us when we face hard times. The Book of Psalms exemplifies the importance of praise with verses like: “You are my God, and I will praise you! You are my God, and I will exalt you! Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever” (Psalm 118:28-29, NLT).

And there is so much to praise God for: Around the world today, God is at work like never before, drawing people to Himself through Scripture in their language. God is inviting us to participate in these Bible translation milestones too! Whether through prayer, financial partnership, serving or even getting our church communities involved, we can be part of a community’s joy as they receive Scripture in their language for the very first time.

See how God’s extravagant love is on display in three different communities who recently celebrated the dedications of their New Testaments.

The Word of God Is Light

God reminds us that Scripture is light in the darkness, guiding our paths (Psalm 119:105). Today the Niellim community in Chad is rejoicing that they finally have God’s Word — His light and truth — in their own language!

The one and only local church, in the center of the community, tackled this New Testament translation project. The translators themselves are pillars of their small body of believers; there are less than 200 church members.

The majority of those who attended the New Testament celebration in May 2024 actually follow another major religion. The Niellim church is excited to see that God’s Word is bearing fruit in the community. The district chief, who attended the event, proclaimed:

Felix Kaibene, pastor and translator, said: “We, the Niellim community, thank God from the bottom of our hearts for placing this valuable work on the hearts of our national and international partners. Seeing the impact the Holy Scriptures have made on our community spiritually, socioeconomically and culturally causes us to bless God.

“Indeed, today we recognize that community transformation in how our way of life has changed: People are committed to hearing the Word of God and putting it into practice. The traditional ways of treating women and girls at home or in marriage are changing [and] the ways that farming or fishing produce is managed are also changing, to cite just a few examples.

“All this is the fruit of the church being planted in Niellim. The impact can be clearly seen. … May God’s blessings abound on all the men and women, from near or far, who have contributed to this work of salvation within the Niellim community!”

When Scripture is translated, it transforms individual hearts and lives. But the change doesn’t stop there — God’s Word impacts families, communities, churches and even entire regions! Since the majority of the Niellim community practice a religion that is opposed to the gospel, pray that the Holy Spirit would work through God’s Word to bring people into a relationship with Him.

Transformed From the Inside Out

If you’re a native English speaker, you’re probably within arm’s reach right now of a Bible in your language. Whether it’s the YouVersion Bible app, a printed copy or even an audio Bible, you can easily read or hear Scripture — and even different versions of it! — in a variety of ways.

But what if that wasn’t the case? For many people around the world, it’s their reality: They’re still waiting for even one word of Scripture in their language. Sometimes, like in the case of the Bena New Testament project in Tanzania, translation work can take many years.

Joshua Mhelela is a pastor in Tanzania. He’s also one of the Bena speakers who trained and worked for years as a translator on the Bena New Testament project. On May 26, 2023 — after 18 years of hard work — Joshua and his colleagues got the chance to dedicate their completed New Testament!

“God is doing great things. Bena people are hearing the gospel. They are being saved from their sins, and we can see changes,” Joshua said.

Back in 2004, the Bena translation project kicked off with years of work to develop the language’s orthography (which are its systems of spelling and writing). In those early days, the team also translated and published the Gospel of Mark, as well as Ruth and Jonah.

“Around my home in those days, people there were not believers,” Joshua said. He continued: “But now there are many denominations. Notorious people are no more notorious, and most people who worshipped other gods … don’t practice that anymore. Those beliefs are fading away.”

At the New Testament dedication, a choir joyfully performed songs in their own language. “The Bena people love to promote their language,” one person in the crowd said. “They love singing hymns in the Bena language.”

Over the years of this project, the translation team was supported by the Bena community — many volunteers participated in reviewers’ meetings and tested the translated Scriptures in the community. More church denominations came on board as the project progressed, boosting unity among churches in the area. Churches and other groups provided meeting rooms and accommodation for translators and other workers.

One team member said: “… The dedication ceremony and now distribution of Bena New Testaments have only been possible thanks to these partner relationships.”

As a pastor, Joshua knows the profound impact that this New Testament will have — not just for his own spiritual life but for the Bena community now and in the future:

While Joshua celebrates the joy of the New Testament, he and the team are also looking ahead to translating the Old Testament. “I’m very happy the people received this New Testament,” he said. “And they want us to continue with the Old Testament. But some say our Bena language has no value in society. They ask if I can do this — such a young man with very little education. I can see that I have a great responsibility, and I think this work is God’s purpose for me.”

God’s Word has the power to transform lives when it’s in a language and format people clearly understand. Let’s rejoice with the Bena people who, through Bible translation, understand that God loves them and knows their language!

The Value of God’s Word

For many years, most Aklanon people in the Philippines didn’t see the value of having a Bible translation in their own language of Inakeanon. After all, in addition to their language, they can also speak the national language, a widely spoken trade language and English.

This was clearly demonstrated during the audio recording of the Inakeanon New Testament. While recording the passage in Matthew 27 about Jesus’ death in which He said, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”, the translator got emotional.

He became so affected by those words that he could hardly get them out during the recording. At that moment, he felt all of the emotion that Jesus felt when He said those words too.

This man was a pastor and had read those same words many times in other languages, but they had never affected him that way until he was reading them in his own language!

Now more Aklanon people will be able to understand Scripture on a deeper, emotional level too. On April 13, 2024, 2,000 people gathered to celebrate the arrival of the Inakeanon New Testament. There was excitement in the air as worship began. All of the songs were in Inakeanon: People were connecting with God in their own language! Over and over during the program, people expressed thanksgiving for the Scripture in Inakeanon.

This day was a demonstration of Christian unity as many different churches came together, all for the purpose of celebrating the arrival of God’s Word in their language. Outside of the venue, many copies of the New Testament were sold. God was glorified throughout the entire dedication day!

Joy for Eternity

When Scripture is available in someone’s language, it settles deep into their hearts and profoundly changes them. It’s no longer just words on a page — it’s the living Word of God that has the power to capture hearts and transform lives forever.

Around the world today, communities like the Niellim, Bena and Aklanon are celebrating that God’s Word has come home to their people. They know now that God sees them, loves them and has a plan for their lives.

But there are still millions of people speaking or signing at least 7,300 languages who don’t yet have access to the Good News of Jesus. Every number represents a person who has a story that matters to God — and He’s called each of us to play a specific role in making sure that the gospel goes out to all people in all languages.

Scripture paints a picture of heaven; it is a place where there is no more death, sorrow, crying or pain (Revelation 21:4), and where people from every nation and language will worship around God’s throne (Revelation 7:9). Bible translation helps people understand the gospel and believe in Christ, leading them to this ultimate promised future.

Who might you meet and celebrate with in heaven because you said “yes” to being part of the work of Bible translation on earth?

What does it mean to live generously? In a world where time is scarce, talents often go unnoticed and it feels like we never have enough money, generosity might seem difficult to practice.

God has entrusted each of us with resources to steward and responsibilities to manage. Our material and immaterial resources aren’t just things to stockpile or use for personal gain. They are gifts that have the potential to reflect God’s love, uplift others and make an eternal impact.

So how can we live generously with what we’ve been given?

1. Stewarding Your Time for the Kingdom of God

Time is one of our most precious resources, and how we spend it reflects what matters most to us. Does the way you spend your time align with what brings you joy and fulfillment? How are you using your time on earth to make a difference for eternity?

At the age of 102, Dottie Brown continues to steward her time for the Kingdom of God. Since the 1960s, she and her husband have supported 17 missionary families, as well as various Bible translation projects. Dottie has even had the opportunity to attend Scripture celebrations! Her living legacy of perseverance and generosity shows us that every day is an opportunity to make an eternal difference. Dottie knows the power that God’s Word can make in people’s lives — now and for generations to come:

Dottie has generously devoted so many years of her life to the mission of Bible translation because she knows that two things last for eternity: God’s Word and people.

Our small, intentional choices today carry eternal significance. What if you incorporated praying for Bible translation into your daily 9-to-5 routine? What if your donation could help someone know God’s love for them in their own language for the very first time?

How will you make your time count today?

2. Using Your Talents for God’s Glory

God has equipped you with unique talents and skills. Whether you’re a teacher, tech expert, artist or mechanic, your abilities have the potential to bless others and point them to Christ.

The night before the Sihanaka Bible dedication in the town of Ambatondrazaka, Madagascar, people from a local church performed a dramatic presentation in the Sihanaka language. Within their performance were numerous musical portions that touched on major stories from the Bible. Their creativity brought the Good News to life for their community and showed how talents can make a Kingdom impact.

Using your gifts with purpose not only serves others but can also help transform people’s lives forever. You were created to reflect God’s creativity and called to contribute to His mission. 1 Corinthians 12:27 reminds us: “All of you together are Christ’s body, and each of you is a part of it” (NLT). As members of the global Church, we have a mission — to use what God has gifted to us in order to share the gospel. The Word of God has the power to capture hearts and transform lives, and you can be a part of seeing the Bible go out in all languages so that all people can worship God.

What gifts and talents has God entrusted to you, and how might He be calling you to use them?

3. Stewarding Treasure to Make an Eternal Impact

Living by faith challenges us to see finances as God’s provision that He entrusted to us to further His Kingdom. When stewarded wisely, financial resources can produce lasting Kingdom impact.

Did you know that it costs about $35 to translate a single verse of Scripture? That’s the price of a takeout meal, a few movie theater tickets or some cups of coffee out with friends. Even small, sacrificial gifts can have eternal significance as churches and individuals join together to support this vital work. Investing in eternal treasures — like the translation of God’s Word — reflects a heart aligned with His mission.

But when we faithfully steward our earthly treasures, the priceless gift of God’s Word becomes accessible to those who need it most. Janet, a Wycliffe donor, traveled to a Scripture dedication for a Bible translation project in Tanzania that her family supported, and was moved by the experience.

“We took a van to the ceremony, and from our van we saw people walking long distances along the road, dressed up for the celebration of their Bible dedication,” Janet recalled. “We heard pastors speak and pray, the choir sang three or four times and there was worship through dancing. Several hundred people were standing the whole time in the hot sun, holding babies in their arms.

“But they came there for a purpose — walked all that distance, waited all that time — because they so wanted the Bible in their language. You saw the people kiss their Bibles and hold them up to their chests like precious gifts. It caused me to treasure my own Scriptures more, and it changed my heart as much as I knew it was going to change their hearts.”

God’s Word truly is the greatest treasure. Stewarding our resources wisely isn’t just about making financial decisions — it’s about valuing and prioritizing the things that matter most, like ensuring others have access to the Bible.

How can you use the resources God has entrusted to you to bless others and glorify Him?

Meet Bijay! Originally from South Asia, Bijay’s life was transformed when he encountered God at a local church near his home. When he discovered how many languages in his home country still needed Bible translation work to start, he wondered how he could contribute to God’s mission. He thought, “I'm not a linguist. I'm not a theologian. So what … role I could play?”

After connecting with a Wycliffe missionary, Bijay realized that God had a plan to use his unique experiences and background. Now Bijay has the opportunity to play a part in what God is doing in South Asia through Bible translation work! He contributes to the movement as a field coordinator with Wycliffe USA and a project funding coordinator with a partner organization. As part of his role, Bijay currently contributes to projects that are taking place in 22 languages. He said:

To accomplish this goal, we need to prayerfully ask God to direct our steps as He invites us to be a part of making His name known among the nations. God has promised there will be a future day when people from every nation, people and language will stand before His throne.

Collaboration in a Global Movement

At Wycliffe, we want to see local churches empowered so that they can own the Bible translation work in their communities, countries and regions. Global Partnerships is a multiorganizational collaboration that desires to receive inspiration and leadership from the global Church in the Bible translation movement. Global Partnerships serves as a platform for collaboration in the Bible translation movement as we explore new ways of working together with interdependence.

As part of the Global Partnerships Engagement team at Wycliffe USA, Bijay has the opportunity to forge relationships and play a part in ensuring Bible translation projects are moving forward. Bijay shared priorities that guide the team as they collaborate across the world:

• Serve the Church: At Wycliffe, we want to be inspired and directed by the Church. We want to respond to what God is calling the Church to do, and we want to reflect the body of Christ working interdependently.
• Accomplish Vision 2025: We embrace the vision that by the year 2025, there will be a Bible translation project in progress for every people group that needs it.

Journeying Together

As a field coordinator, Bijay collaborates with pastors and leaders to start Bible translation programs in the communities that need it to begin for the first time! He fosters conversations that empower communities to take ownership of translation projects. Bijay works with project teams to find out what Bible portions they want for their community. He said, “[The local communities] decide which one they want first based on their [own] unique need.”

For example, leaders in one community mentioned that they wanted to begin work by translating a set of stories from Genesis to Revelation. So that is what they started translating! Bijay said:

Bijay works remotely from the U.S., but he also has opportunities to travel, visit communities and build relationships in person. As he fosters meaningful cross-cultural relationships, he also engages in project planning and administrative work to ensure the projects are well-resourced and managed.

Bijay emphasized the importance of staying rooted in God’s Word and seeking guidance from God during decision-making. He said:

The Impact of Scripture

Bijay recalls one story of an elderly woman who received a device with translated Scripture in an audio format. Not only would she listen to the New Testament in her home, but she listened at work, hoping that her coworkers would also hear the transforming story of the Bible. As a result, her coworkers began to listen to the Scripture with her each day.

One day the audio Bible stopped functioning properly, so one of the woman’s colleagues contacted Bijay’s team. He said, “We are enjoying these audio stories you provided. … Could you provide [devices for] us?” After they received more audio Bibles, people’s lives were transformed in that city. Access to God’s Word has an eternal impact! As Scripture reminds us:

We are excited to see Scripture transforming lives, strengthening communities and equipping future generations to know and follow Christ. We look forward to the day when all people will rejoice because they have God’s Word in their language!

Your Next Steps

Ready to play a part in what God is doing around the world? We won’t stop until all people have access to all Scripture. Every person deserves access to all of God’s Word, empowering them to fully know His truth and live in His hope.

When you serve with us, you’ll find a purpose greater than yourself and belong to a global faith community. You could have the opportunity to say “yes” and be part of seeing the Bible — the greatest story ever told — go out to all people around the world.

When Abel asked one of them what motivated such dedication, the answer the translator gave was profound: “My name will never be forgotten. My grandchildren will know I was part of bringing God’s Word to our village.”

The result was transformation. Those eight verses brought light into spiritual darkness, and lives began to change. As the translators shared those verses with the village, people came to Christ, and the message of hope took root in their hearts.

Think about that — just eight verses in a language people could finally understand. For the first time, they experienced God’s Word speaking directly to their hearts. It didn’t take a full Bible or even an entire chapter; those few verses ignited a spark of faith in the lives of many people. That’s the power of Scripture.

This story is a reminder of what’s possible when people encounter God’s Word in their language. Abel shared how he sees a unique opportunity for Latino churches to influence the global mission field.

As he reflected on the rapid growth of Latino churches in the U.S., he envisioned how this passionate and faith-filled community can rise to meet the challenge of bringing Scripture to people who have never had access to it.

Latino Church Growth: A Catalyst for Global Missions

Latino communities are flourishing, and their impact on the U.S. church is profound. This growth isn’t just about numbers or statistics — it’s a Kingdom opportunity.

“As we travel throughout the nation, we’re beginning to see how the church is really looking for discipleship,” Abel explained. “And there’s no better discipleship than God’s Word.”

But there’s a challenge. Many immigrant communities, like Guatemalan families in Houston, speak indigenous dialects rather than Spanish. This linguistic diversity highlights the need for Bible translation, not only abroad but right here in the U.S.

Latino churches are uniquely equipped to bridge this gap. Their cultural connections and passion for the gospel position them as a powerful force in bringing hope and discipleship through Scripture to these communities.

Making Bible Translation Accessible for Every Church

To empower Latino churches in Bible translation, practical and accessible systems are vital. Abel emphasized this need, “We must simplify things. … We must be user-friendly to help parents understand the mission [and] vision of where we’re going and what we need to accomplish it.”

This approach makes the mission tangible for every church, regardless of size. Abel said: “Whether it’s a denominational church, a nondenominational church or just a small independent church that has 30 members, the Bible speaks about being one body and having different functions. Unity is key.”

With user-friendly systems and a shared vision, every congregation can contribute to the transformative work of Bible translation.

The Ripple Effect of Bible Translation

The story from Uganda is a powerful reminder of how even the smallest efforts in Bible translation can lead to profound transformation. Eight verses were all it took to spark a movement of faith in a remote village. Imagine the joy and hope that swept through the community as they heard God’s Word in their own language for the very first time. Those verses didn’t just communicate information; they touched hearts, changed lives and planted seeds of eternal truth.

Now picture what could happen if churches across Latin America and the U.S. embraced this mission. Imagine communities that have never had access to Scripture finally understanding God’s promises in a way that speaks directly to their hearts.

As we dream about what’s possible, we’re reminded of Ephesians 3:20-21 (NIV), which declares, “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.”

He is already at work, and the ripple effect of even a few verses can grow in a way that causes Scripture to reach the furthest corners of the earth. This is the opportunity before us — to be part of a movement that changes lives for eternity.

Expanding the Vision: Sharing the Gospel Near and Far

The gospel calls us to love our neighbors and share the Good News of Christ with them — whether they live next door to us or thousands of miles away. Reflecting on his trip to Uganda, Abel challenged Latino churches to think beyond their immediate communities. He noted that the opportunity to become engaged in Bible translation is exciting because our calling knows no boundaries.

Sharing the gospel with others isn’t just a local responsibility — it’s a global opportunity. Many people in remote villages have never experienced the life-transforming power of God’s Word. Imagine what it would be like if you could take part in their story!

How You Can Be Part of the Movement

Latino churches are stepping boldly into the work of Bible translation, but the work requires the full body of Christ. Here’s how you can join:

• Pray: Ask God to empower and guide Latino churches as they engage in Bible translation. Pray for wisdom, unity and open doors in the communities they serve.
• Give: Financial support helps ensure that Bible translation efforts can continue without interruption. Your generosity can bring the Word of God to those who’ve never had access to it.
• Advocate: Share this vision with your family, friends and church community. Inspire others to get involved and experience the joy of participating in God’s mission.
• Engage Your Church: Equip your congregation to be part of this life-changing work. We've created resources for all ages in your church — from kids to adults — to help people find their part whether at home or abroad.

A Vision for Transformation

God can use us where we are — in our communities, cities and churches — to make an eternal impact for His Kingdom. Latino churches have a vital role in the global mission of Bible translation.

Through unity, partnership and a commitment to seeing lives transformed, they can help fulfill the vision of Revelation 7:9a: “After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb” (NLT).

Let’s join together in this mission to see lives changed, communities transformed and God’s Word reach the furthest corners of the earth.

When was the last time you partnered with someone to get a task done?

Maybe you got the whole family involved in cleaning the house, maximizing effort and minimizing the amount of time invested in tidying everything up. Or perhaps you were moving from one house to another and invited a group of friends to help you load and unload the truck, rather than making multiple trips yourself.

Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, or inclined to be a lone wolf or team player, the Bible is clear that partnership is an important part of life. That doesn’t mean it’s always easy, of course, but it’s worth the effort.

This is particularly true in the Bible translation movement. Historically, Wycliffe and a few key strategic partners were focused on translation efforts in different communities around the world. These efforts proved successful in many cases, and lives were being transformed through God’s Word.

However, a New Testament translation was taking decades on average to complete — a pace that in 1999 meant it would take another 150 years for Bible translation to start for the languages we knew about at that time! We longed with a sense of urgency to bring God’s Word to communities more quickly so that even more lives could be transformed.

That’s when we felt like God was calling us to step out boldly in faith and consider what it would look like to see Bible translation start for every language still needing it by the year 2025. We recognized it would require us to rethink our processes, reconsider our partnerships and ask God to raise up His global Church to participate in the work in new ways. And that’s exactly what He’s done.

God’s Global Church: Advancing the Great Commission Together

Flash forward to 2025: the benchmark year for this God-sized vision that we named “Vision 2025.” If you were to ask us back in the mid-2010s if Vision 2025 was possible, we likely would have answered you with something along the lines of, “We are going to keep working and asking God to move, but it’s probably not possible.”

That’s not the answer you’d get today! The goal of Vision 2025 actually feels attainable as God continues “to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us” (Eph. 3:20, NIV). And we’re pressing ahead in faith with an all-in attitude and innovative approaches.

As of Jan. 1, 2025, there are:

• 131 countries that have achieved Vision 2025.
• 43 countries that have 1 remaining language.
• 24 countries that have 2-5 remaining languages.
• 16 countries that have 6 or more remaining languages.

But the reason that Vision 2025 feels possible today isn’t because of our efforts or determination. Rather, it’s because God has brought together His Church — His people from all over the world — to see people encounter Jesus through Scripture in a language and format they clearly understand.

Wycliffe now works with more than 3,000 partners — churches, missions organizations and like-minded ministries — around the world to translate the Bible, resulting in an unprecedented rate of acceleration. Projects are starting in communities sooner rather than later so that people can have access to God’s Word for themselves.

Dr. Johnstone Ndunde, a Bible translation leader in Africa, puts it this way: “In the world where we serve, we have many churches that have discipled, educated people that are able to serve the Lord as well. God’s mission is no longer from the West to the rest. It is from everyone to everywhere.”

New Project Starts

As a direct result of partnership and collaboration, today a new language is engaged on average every 14 hours — a pace never seen before in the history of Bible translation! Here is a small glimpse into the kinds of translation projects springing up.

Elisow Cluster Project | Cameroon

The Elisow Cluster project encompasses 24 language communities across seven regions in Cameroon. Named after the Hebrew word "Eli" (my God) and the English word "sow," the project aims to spread God's transformative Word to these communities in their heart languages.

Over 12 months, the project will mobilize churches, conduct sociolinguistic surveys, develop tentative orthographies and prepare translation proposals for the communities desiring Bible translation to pave the way for work to begin in these 24 languages.

Gwatle Project | Indonesia

Indonesia is one of the “Big Five,” a term we use to describe the areas with the most languages in need of Bible translation to begin for the very first time. Approximately 110 communities in Indonesia are still waiting.

The Gwatle people have desired for years to have the Bible in their language, having seen the power of God's Word in neighboring communities. They believe that God can bring transformation to their community too. Today, Gwatle churches from different denominations are very excited to work together to translate the Scriptures! They plan to start with Luke, select Psalms and the Lord’s Prayer, along with the Apostles’ Creed, hymns and church liturgy.

SLAm! 43 Cluster Project | The Americas

Bible translation isn’t just about spoken and written languages; it’s about signed languages too! That’s why the “SLAm! 43” Cluster project is so exciting. SLAm (short for Sign Languages America) aims to engage 43 sign languages in 37 countries or territories across North, Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean, to ensure that these Deaf communities have the opportunity to encounter Jesus through Scripture in a way that captures their hearts forever.

As a result of this project, Vision 2025 will be accomplished in 30 countries and territories throughout the Americas!

Want to pray for Bible translation projects around the world like these ones? Join the Wycliffe Prayer Community and pray through timely requests directly from communities as they work to translate God’s Word.

An Invitation to Join Us: All Scripture for All People

As excited as we are about Vision 2025, we understand that Bible translation isn’t just about starts; it’s about completing the work so that people have the full counsel of God’s Word and experience lasting transformation.

In Revelation 7:9a, a heavenly scene is described: "After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb" (NLT).

This isn’t just a hoped-for future; it’s promised — and we want to be a part of it! That’s why Wycliffe Bible Translators will continue to serve with the global body of Christ to advance Bible translation until all people from every language can understand the Bible and be transformed.

We are so grateful for every partner who participates with us by praying, giving, advocating, serving and engaging their church to be part of what God is doing! If you haven’t yet gotten involved in what God is doing around the world through Bible translation, we invite you to join us!

Have you ever wandered through ancient ruins, imagining the lives of the people who built them? Their choices and values are etched into stone, hinting at the stories of their time. Just as these remnants inspire us to reflect on the past, our daily actions shape the legacies we leave for the future.

But legacies aren’t only found in monuments or material wealth — they’re in the relationships we nurture, the kindness we show and the values we pass on. At Wycliffe, we believe that making God’s Word accessible to people through Bible translation builds a profound legacy of faith in individuals, families and communities.

What story will your life tell to future generations?

Legacy Beyond Wealth

When churches talk about legacy and generosity, the focus is often on financial giving. Yet building a meaningful legacy is about stewarding all we’ve been given: our time, talents, treasures and so much more!

The Bible reminds us that while our possessions are temporary, the choices we make today can have eternal significance so we need to live intentionally: “… Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31, NLT). Our legacy is shaped by how we live daily — not just grand gestures but also small acts of kindness and faithfulness.

Living generously means investing in things that matter for eternity. Supporting Bible translation ensures future generations encounter the gospel in their own language. Because when people meet God through His Word, their lives are changed forever.

A Story in the Making: The Light Coming to the Yalë

At Wycliffe, we celebrate Bible translation milestones. These milestones are evidence of God’s faithful love to His people and also serve as the starting point for people to know Him through His Word and build lasting legacies of faith in their communities.

On May 4, 2024, the Yalë people in Papua New Guinea celebrated the dedication of their New Testament and portions of Genesis in their language. It was a day of worship, prayer and rejoicing as God’s Word became accessible in a language that speaks to their hearts. Speeches from numerous people all referenced God’s faithfulness to the Yalë. A local pastor issued a heartfelt challenge to the Yalë community:

As a man named Boaz opened a box and lifted up the first copy of the Yalë Scripture portions, he called out: “Ëhwati Gali, Ëhwati Gali” (which means, “Eternal Word, Eternal Word”). The people responded with cheers and clapping. Another man then read aloud from the Yalë Scripture. Soon people eagerly lined up to claim their copies of the Scriptures and MegaVoice players, which play audio Scriptures.

Praise God for His faithfulness to the Yalë people! We pray that as they read and listen to Scripture, it will transform their hearts, produce lasting fruit and shine God’s light into their community and beyond.

Investing in Eternity: Living a Life of Faith and Generosity

Matthew 24:35 reminds us that all of the things in this world will eventually fade, but God’s Word is eternal: “Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will never disappear” (NLT). God calls each of us to participate in His global mission, leveraging our lives for His eternal Kingdom.

What if those who came before us hadn’t invested in eternity? Because people obeyed Christ’s call to “… go and make disciples of all the nations” (Matthew 28:19, NLT), the Good News reached you in a language you could clearly understand. Around the world today, people are still waiting for this same Good News in their language. They don’t yet know that God loves them and wants a relationship with them. That’s why Bible translation is so important — it draws people into a right relationship with God and transforms their lives forever.

Revelation 7:9 shows us a glimpse of a promised future — a day when people from every nation and language group will worship before God’s throne. You can be part of making that vision a reality for people around the world by supporting Bible translation through praying, giving, serving or even getting your church involved.

Our choices reveal our values and influence others. Whether we’re modeling faith for the next generation or inspiring people through generosity, every season of life offers us a chance to invest in God’s Kingdom and live in light of eternity.

Who might you meet in heaven because you said “yes”?

A generous life — through giving, advocacy or love — points others to Jesus and inspires future faith. The Yalë community today has the Word of God in their language, and as individuals and families incorporate the truths of Scripture into their daily lives, they will continue to be transformed. Their actions today will shape generations to come — not only in their own language community but beyond.

Your actions today can create ripple effects that last for years or generations to come. So what legacy will you leave?

God cares deeply about our hearts. When we follow Him, He wants more than just surface-level obedience — He wants our hearts to reflect His love, generosity and grace to the world around us. Ultimately, how we give, serve and live our lives on earth shapes our hearts, molding us to become more like Christ.

Generosity stems from trust and humility, inviting us to surrender control, acknowledge God as the source of all blessings and give joyfully as stewards of His provision.

The Bible offers rich wisdom, showing us how to love, serve and care for others as God does. We learn about how to be generous with our time, talents and treasures. And we also can discover how God wants us to view our hearts and lives as sacrifices to Him, as they, too, are reflections of His generous love.

But imagine for a moment that you couldn’t turn to Scripture to understand how God wants you to live because it wasn’t in your language. You wouldn’t “… have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is” (Ephesians 3:18, NLT).

Instead, you’d have to try to understand God’s Word in a language that wasn’t your own — or not have access to any Scripture at all. What might it feel like to try to navigate the world that way?

As you think about how God’s Word has helped you tune your own heart to His will — and what your life would be like without His guidance — the story of the Rangi New Testament dedication in Tanzania offers us an inspiring example of how Scripture changes hearts, lives and entire communities when it’s in a language and format people can understand.

A Glimpse of Transformation: The Rangi New Testament Dedication

The Rangi New Testament dedication was a celebration of perseverance: Some of the guests who attended this milestone in August 2024 had been personally involved in the translation project and got to celebrate its completion 24 years after initial translation work began. While the Rangi translation project encountered many obstacles over the year, praise God that the team persevered to complete the translation!

Even though the vast majority of the speakers in this community follow another major world religion, about 500 people from the local community attended the dedication, and everyone enjoyed a meal at the end.

Near the beginning of the ceremony, a group danced in while carrying a box of Rangi New Testaments, as well as a collection of items: a bowl of flour, a chicken, a replica of a knife and a decorative ax. One of the speakers explained that flour is used to make ugali (the local staple food), chicken is eaten with ugali, a knife is used to kill the chicken and an ax is used to split the firewood to cook the food. The speaker reminded everyone in attendance that while those items provide food for our physical bodies, the Word of God is our spiritual food.

A Testimony of Faith

After the main procession for the Rangi New Testament dedication, a group of children walked in singing. These were children who have been attending a Sunday school program for the last couple of years, using parable booklets. As part of the program, they had been memorizing verses and passages of Scripture, and some of the children had the opportunity to recite what they had learned — including one girl who had learned the whole parable of the Prodigal Son!

One Rangi woman gave an incredible testimony about the power of God’s Word in Rangi. She said: “I feel very peaceful and happy to have the Word of God in my language. I think a lot about what God has done for the Rangi people. It started to look like the work would not finish … but I thank God for those who fought and worked very hard to make sure the New Testament was completed in the Rangi language.” Then she continued:

She went on: “Truly, having the New Testament in Rangi means God is greatly glorified by the Rangi and others. I personally think it will change [the Rangi] people … and then society and churches in general.

“A large percentage of people show the desire to read God’s Word in Rangi. So when many people get the Word of God in Rangi and read it for themselves, it will change their thinking a lot because the words of Rangi will go deep into the heart. … I believe God will do something very different for the Rangi people, and they will know God more through their language.”

We pray that God will use His Word to truly transform individual hearts, families and the entire Rangi community — now and into the future!

Posturing Our Hearts Toward God Through Generosity

Reflecting God’s heart for the world and living generously is a journey — an ongoing process of trusting God and allowing Him to shape us through His Word. That process begins with being able to access Scripture in a language and format that resonate with our hearts. That’s why Bible translation is so important: It enables people to encounter God personally and deeply when they see, hear or read His Word.

Now that the Rangi have access to the New Testament in their language, men, women and children can fully understand how much God loves them and how He wants them to live. Verses like John 3:16 and Romans 5:8 will be able to permeate their hearts and transform them from the inside out. God’s Word creates a ripple effect that can change lives for years and even generations to come.

Often when we hear the word “generosity,” we think of money. And while God does call us to be good stewards of our resources, that is not all He cares about.

Our willingness to live generously flows from our relationship with God. As we spend time in His Word and make daily choices that reflect His heart, our lives are transformed. Posturing our hearts toward God begins with recognizing Him as the source of all we have and trusting Him to shape our desires and guide us.

Bible translation is essential for people in the global Church to grow spiritually. After all, how does the world know God loves them if they’re not told in their own language?

Today, there are still millions of people waiting for the Bible to come to life in a way they clearly understand. You can be part of their life-changing journey through your prayers, gifts, service and advocacy. You can even get your church involved in the work!

As you read through these Bible verses below about posturing your heart before God, we also encourage you to pray for those who are waiting for these same words of Scripture in their language.

“Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.” — Matthew 6:21 (NLT)

Heavenly Father, as we prioritize lasting, heavenly treasures, may our hearts and lives better align with Your Kingdom and purposes. We ask that You work in the lives of people around the world who are waiting to know the treasure of Your Word in their language. May they be transformed by Your love and grace. Amen.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. — Proverbs 3:5 (NLT)

Father, You invite us through Your Word to rely on Your wisdom, even when we don’t have all the answers. As we learn to trust, may we experience deeper faith and a sense of Your peace and guidance. We lift up the communities right now who are working to translate Proverbs — this book of wisdom — into their languages so they, too, can know what heavenly wisdom looks like. Amen.

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. — Psalm 51:10 (NLT)

Heavenly Father, cleanse and transform our hearts. Only You can renew us, shaping our desires and actions to reflect Your steadfast love. We invite You to renew and strengthen our hearts, helping us grow in generosity, enabling us to navigate difficult or uncertain seasons with grace and faith. And we ask that Your Spirit would move in the hearts of people right now who are desperately seeking to know You and experience Your love through Scripture in their language. Transform their hearts as only You can. Amen.

I will praise you, LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done. — Psalm 9:1 (NLT)

God, our hearts overflow with gratitude for all that You have done in our lives. While we know we can lift up our requests before You, we also know that it is important to set aside time to celebrate incredible moments that can only happen because of You!

Through Bible dedications and New Testament celebrations like the Rangi, we humbly acknowledge the Holy Spirit’s work in and through the global Church, rejoicing in all that You have accomplished and continue to do through Bible translation. We ask that You remind us to share Your love with the world — to tell people of Your marvelous works — and spread Your Word so that everyone can know You personally. Amen.

Living in Light of Our Promised Future

In Revelation 7:9a, a heavenly scene is described: “After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb” (NLT).

This isn’t just a hoped-for future; it’s promised! As you continue to posture your own heart before God and practice generosity, we encourage you to lift up people around the world who need His transforming Word in their language. You can even join our Wycliffe Prayer Community to get timely updates about communities just like the Rangi who are waiting for or celebrating God’s Word.

May we all remember what a joy and privilege it is to know God and be known by Him!

What would it feel like to wait decades to fully experience God’s Word in your own language? Around the world, many communities are praying and longing for the day when they can have Scripture in a way that they clearly understand. But God is rich in mercy and love and leads people out of darkness and into the light through His Word (Ephesians 2:4).

We are all invited to join in the celebration of individuals and communities who are receiving the very Word of God. These stories of what God is doing around the world go beyond the act of translation itself; they capture the profound impact of God’s Word as it shapes lives, strengthens faith and unites generations in His love.

The dedication of a New Testament is a chance for a community to rejoice as they see God’s promises fulfilled — when years of hard work and faithful prayer come to fruition, offering people the life-giving message of the gospel in their own language.

For the Saliba people of Papua New Guinea, this dream became reality on Oct. 12, 2024. After 31 years of waiting, the Saliba New Testament was joyfully handed over to church leaders. Their story is a culmination of faith, perseverance and a deep longing to see God’s promises come alive in their language.

A Community United in Preparation

The days leading up to the dedication were nothing short of extraordinary. On Saliba Island, the United Church congregation at Sawasawaga buzzed with excitement.

The men worked tirelessly, building a stunning stage and shelters for the guests, while the women meticulously planned the feast, gathering fresh produce and preparing pigs for the celebratory meal.

Teachers guided their students in practicing traditional dances for the celebration, and boats ferried visitors and choir groups in from nearby islands. Every detail, from the replica of a traditional house that would carry the New Testament to the vibrant dance routines, was planned with love and anticipation.

The Big Day Arrives

The day of the dedication began bright and sunny. Groups of villagers arrived on foot or boat, all of them carrying food — pigs and garden produce — for the day’s feast. They were escorted to the celebration grounds next to the church with dancing and joyful shouts. While a downpour delayed the start of the celebration by a few hours, at 11 a.m., the festivities officially began!

Four Saliba translators kicked off a grand procession, carrying in the replica house that contained the New Testament. Dancers in traditional attire led the way.

At the church entrance, leaders received the New Testament, ushering it inside for a moving dedication service.

During the service, the representative of the bishop of the United Church in Milne Bay Province prayed for the New Testament and blessed it. The service was accompanied with songs by the various choir groups. Afterward, the celebration continued with joyful dancing and speeches. Members of the United Church translation team even received certificates of appreciation. The day concluded with a celebratory, traditional big meal!

But that wasn’t the only celebration that took place that week.

Celebrations Across the Island

Just three days later, on Oct. 15, the Kwato Church of Papua New Guinea hosted a second celebration, welcoming the Saliba New Testament.

The current and former bishop traveled to officially receive the New Testament into the church. At the dedication, they talked about the importance of the Bible for Christian faith and encouraged the believers to read the New Testament in their language. The program continued with speeches, dance and songs from the choir. All the speakers expressed great joy at finally having God’s Word in their language!

But that was still not the end of the Saliba New Testament celebrations!

The next day, translators from the United Church congregation traveled to the north coast of Saliba Island, where there is a Catholic congregation. The whole program that day was conducted in Saliba. A procession with dancers escorted the New Testament to the church. When everybody had entered, a congregation leader carried a copy of the New Testament in, lifting it high for everybody to see.

In front of the altar, a special throne, covered in burgundy velvet and decorated with bright stars and two burning candles, had been prepared for the book. The New Testament was not only displayed prominently — it was immediately used for all the readings during the service!

In their speeches, the speakers promised to use the Saliba New Testament from now on in all church services and other activities. One speaker even encouraged the people to write songs about anything they learned from reading the New Testament.

When it was time for the final speech, a group of men carried a heavily decorated traditional platform filled with some local food items and two live chickens and presented it to the SIL (our primary partner) advisors. It was the traditional way of showing their utmost gratitude.

The Word Takes Root

During all three celebration days, people’s joy over the Saliba New Testament was palpable.

As the Saliba community embraces this treasure, their journey of transformation and spiritual growth begins.

Join the Mission

Join us in praying for communities around the world who are still waiting for the Word of God in their own language.

And pray that the words of the New Testament would take root deeply in the hearts of the Saliba people — that their faith would strengthen, that their passion for Scripture and enthusiasm would continually grow and that God would work in the lives of the Saliba translators and church leaders. We praise God for His faithfulness to the Saliba people, and pray that He will use Scripture to transform men, women and children — now and for years to come!

In a world filled with uncertainty, people everywhere search for solid ground — something unchanging and secure to stand on during the challenges of life. The Word of God provides that foundation, pointing us to Jesus Christ, the solid rock. He is the unshakable truth on which believers build their lives. Yet millions of people around the world have never had the chance to encounter God’s Word in their own language.

Bible translation is critical to ensuring that everyone can experience the hope, grace and truth found in Scripture. Without it, the message of Christ’s love and redemption is out of reach for many. For those who have access to the Word, it is a gift that not only transforms their own lives but also inspires them to share it with others.

On Christ, the Solid Rock

The hymn “My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less” captures the essence of faith in Christ as our solid rock:

• My hope is built on nothing less
• Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;
• I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
• But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.

Its refrain reminds us of the firm foundation we have in Christ:

• On Christ, the Solid Rock, I stand;
• All other ground is sinking sand.

This hymn reflects the profound truth found in John 1:1-5 (NLT): “In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.”

These verses declare that Jesus is the eternal Word, the source of life and light and the foundation of all creation. He is the solid ground that never wavers. Anchoring ourselves in Him provides us with clarity, purpose and hope as we navigate the world.

The Word Made Flesh

John 1:14a-b captures the wonder of Christ’s incarnation: “So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness” (NLT).

Eugene Peterson’s paraphrase in The Message offers a vivid image: “The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood” (John 1:14a, MSG).

Jesus entered our world to bring salvation to all people. He revealed God’s love in a tangible and personal way, walking among the broken and the outcasts and shining light into dark places. For the people of the earth — and for each of us — this is good news!

The hymn’s final verse reminds us of our promised future:

• When he shall come with trumpet sound,
• Oh, may I then in him be found,
• Dressed in his righteousness alone,
• Faultless to stand before the throne!

This is the gospel: Through Christ, we are made whole, redeemed and given a future filled with eternal joy.

Bible Translation: A Pathway to the Solid Rock

The message of John 1 and the hope proclaimed in the hymn “My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less” resonate with us because they’re in a language and format we can clearly understand. But millions of people around the world don’t have Scripture in their own language — in a language that touches their heart.

Bible translation ensures that every person can encounter Jesus in a way that resonates with them. Through God’s Word, people are able to understand who Christ is, what He has accomplished and how they can stand on His truth.

Take Mongolia, for example. For decades, the Bible was unavailable in the Mongolian language. In the early 1990s, only the New Testament was translated; but by 2000, the full Bible became available. In the years that followed, the Mongolian church experienced unprecedented growth.

For someone who speaks Mongolian, reading these words from John 1:1-5 in their own language would be life-changing:

• “Эхэнд Үг байсан ба Үг Бурхантай хамт байсан агаад Үг нь Бурхан байв. Тэрбээр эхэнд Бурхантай хамт байсан. Бүх юм Түүгээр буй болсон. Буй болсон юмсаас Түүнгүйгээр буй болсон юмс гэж нэг ч үгүй. Түүнд амь байсан ба амь нь хүмүүний гэрэл байв. Гэрэл харанхуйг гийгүүлдэг агаад түүнийг харанхуй дийлээгүй юм” (Иохан 1:1-5, АБ2013).

Having God’s Word in your own language makes it so much easier and impactful when sharing the gospel and planting churches. Following the completed translation of the full Bible into Mongolian, more than 120 churches were planted, and over 25,000 Mongolians came to faith!

The availability of Scripture in their language was central to this transformation. Believers could finally read, understand and apply God’s Word in their daily lives. The Bible became a foundation for evangelism, discipleship and ministry, allowing the Church to flourish.

Bible translation is essential for the global Church to grow and thrive. It is a lifeline for believers and a pathway for reaching people with the Good News of Jesus.

Standing Together as the Body of Christ

The Church is called to stand on the solid rock of Christ and tell the world about the hope and truth that they can have in Him. This mission is not an individual effort; it’s a collective calling. As members of the body of Christ, we are invited to work together to ensure that every nation, people and language has access to the Word of God.

Advocating for Bible translation is one way to live out this calling. By supporting translation efforts, churches and individuals can help bring the hope of Christ to those who have never received it. This work includes prayer, financial support and raising awareness in our communities. It also means reflecting on how we, as families and churches, can live with eternity in mind, prioritizing the mission of God in our world.

As the Church, we are called to ensure that every person has access to the solid ground of Scripture. Reflect on how you and your church can participate in the mission of Bible translation. Support this work by praying for translators, raising awareness in your community and providing resources to help bring the Word to those still waiting.

Together we can help fulfill the vision of Revelation 7:9, where a vast crowd from every nation and language will stand before the throne of God, worshipping the Lamb.

As we stand on Christ, our solid rock, may His Word be the foundation for every heart and every nation.

Elements of this blog originally appeared in part in “When God’s Word Speaks,” a devotional book published in 2016 by Wycliffe Bible Translators USA.

It’s fun to set goals for ourselves in a new year — whether they’re to build new habits, spend more time with loved ones or help improve the world around us. But even when we have good intentions to follow through, sometimes we can fall short of keeping our resolutions.

What if this year, your resolutions could help create eternal transformation? What if your dreams reflected God’s mission to redeem and restore the world, shaping not only your life but the lives of others?

The Holy Spirit empowers us to live with purpose; He is alive and active in the global Church. God is at work, redeeming people, restoring creation and sanctifying us. The best part is that God invites us to be part of His story — not through our own strength but through His.

A Dream Years in the Making

At Wycliffe, we set goals years ago that we are still committed to today. In 1999, we embraced a big goal: to see a Bible translation program start in every language still needing one by the end of 2025.

Over the years, we have remained committed to saying “yes” and partnering with like-minded organizations and churches to help accomplish this goal, known as Vision 2025. But this goal isn’t the finish line — it’s part of an ongoing journey. We trust God to continue making His name known among the nations through His people and His Word.

We don’t know if we will reach this goal at the end of 2025, but we are certain of this: God’s mission to draw people to Himself through His Word will continue — extending far beyond any specific date. And we will keep striving for the day when every person can encounter Jesus through Scripture in a language they understand.

Vision 2025 isn’t just a bold goal; it’s also an invitation to participate in God’s overarching story of redemption. This story, revealed through His Word, began at creation and continues to unfold as He draws people to Himself.

Bible translation is part of God’s mission to restore communion with His creation. The Scriptures are more than words on a page; they are the unfolding narrative of God’s relentless pursuit of humanity and redemption through the perfect life and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Restoration and the Story of Translation

In the fall of 2024, David Bowden — a Wycliffe USA board member and the founder of Spoken Gospel — performed a spoken word piece. In it he highlights the overarching narrative of Scripture — God’s relentless pursuit of communion with His creation. “From the beginning of time, God has been pursuing communion with us through communication,” David declared.

Even though humanity distorted His message through sin, God continued to reach for us through words. David noted: “The greatest word God would speak could not be transliterated into any earthly tongue. Instead, it needed to be incarnated because God’s final word was His Son.” The Word was Jesus (John 1:1) and brought God’s heavenly message of restoration into human context. David said: “Jesus came so all languages could read Him as the source text.”

God's Story Through Scripture

From the beginning, God’s story unfolded through Scripture. He translated His plans through Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3), His presence through Moses (Exodus 3:12) and His promises through David (2 Samuel 7). As David communicated, “God transcribed His words onto a law,” and God then carried His message from the Garden of Eden to the Promised Land. Each piece of the story points toward Jesus — the fulfillment of His covenant and the answer to humanity’s brokenness.

The New Testament reveals the culmination of this narrative in Jesus Christ. “Because of His desire to be with us, God translated His heavenly self into His earthly creation,” David expressed. Through His life, death and resurrection, Jesus became the way through which God would invite us back into a right relationship with Himself (John 14:6).

The Mission of Bible Translation

The story doesn’t end with Jesus’ earthly ministry though. Scripture reveals God’s plan to bring His Word to every people and nation so they can one day worship Him in heaven (Revelation 7:9). David presented this analogy: For those who are still without Scripture in their language, it’s as if they hold a blank scroll. Bible translation bridges this gap, allowing every person to encounter Jesus in their own language and to see, hear or read His Word for themselves. David said:

The work of Bible translation allows the global Church to share the hope of the gospel with people from every corner of the earth.

Carrying Forward God’s Story

God’s desire to communicate His love to all people is woven throughout the Bible. David emphasized: “And now it’s our turn to carry on Scripture’s words of revelation by finishing the story God has been telling: the story of Bible translation.”

The Bible is more than a book — it is the greatest story ever told. Translating Scripture ensures that this message reaches every language and culture, inviting all people to build their lives on the solid foundation of Christ, the Word made flesh.

Living With Kingdom Purpose in the New Year

God is weaving His grand story of redemption — a story that began at creation and will culminate with all people worshipping Him before His throne — and is using Bible translation to touch people’s hearts and change their lives forever.

We are invited to live each day with eternity in mind; this shapes our actions toward our promised future. As we look toward Vision 2025, we are reminded that the work of Bible translation is not just about completing a goal — it’s about participating in God’s mission to draw people to Himself through His Word in their language. Imagine a day when every person can understand Scripture in their own language and encounter the transformative message of God’s love.

This year, think about how your resolutions could have an eternal impact for God’s Kingdom. Whether it’s through prayer, financial support or raising awareness in your church and community, you can help bring God’s Word to those still waiting for it.

The greatest story ever told is unveiled to the world through the work of Bible translation. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we are empowered to play our part in this incredible narrative. Let’s live with eternity in mind and help make God’s name known among the nations.

What part will you play in sharing God’s Word with the world?

For the Jita and Zanaki people of Tanzania and the Tabo people of Papua New Guinea, the eternal words of Jesus in the Book of Matthew now resonate because they have access to them in their own language. After decades of waiting, these communities can finally read and hear God’s Word!

These recent New Testament dedications in both Tanzania and Papua New Guinea are examples of how God is transforming lives, preserving cultural identity and equipping the next generation to grow in their faith. Each dedication reflects years of collaboration and prayer and is a testament to the power of the Holy Spirit working through Scripture to bring life, hope and transformation to people everywhere.

Celebrate these milestones with us as the New Testament comes to life for the Jita, Zanaki and Tabo communities, equipping them to grow in their faith and share the gospel with others!

The Jita People: Joy and Transformation in Tanzania

The Jita New Testament was dedicated in the small fishing village of Busekera, Tanzania, on July 31, 2024! The Jita people celebrated with singing, dancing, feasting, prayers and speeches.

One memorable moment was when a man performed a worship song that he had written in the Jita language, showcasing the community’s pride and connection to their heritage. Throughout the celebration, people repeatedly exclaimed:

People are excited to have Scripture in their language because it's a way of preserving their cultural identity for future generations. Sometimes even when people are resistant to the gospel message, if they receive a copy of Scripture in their language, they immediately value it because it preserves their language. Then they start reading it, and they come to faith in Jesus.

A big moment of the dedication was when a community leader held up the first copy of the Jita New Testament for everyone to see. The crowd erupted in cheers, applause and celebration because now they know that God truly speaks their language.

During the dedication, an elderly man using a cane and walking slowly struggled to walk up to the front. He signaled with his hand that he wanted to talk to somebody in charge. The man — who is blind — had been sitting in town, heard the loud celebration and wondered what was going on. Then he heard people reading the Bible in his own language.

He was so overwhelmed with joy and gratitude that he made his way to the dedication just so that he could shake the hands of the people who translated God's Word into his language. That's the power of God's Word: It compels people, draws people in and transforms them!

Samamba, a pastor in the area, had tried to preach in Jita — but since there was no Bible in Jita, he always had to translate verses from Swahili. He was so thankful when he received the New Testament.

Celebrations in Tanzania did not stop in Busekera — in another part of the country, the Zanaki people also recently celebrated a similar milestone.

The Zanaki People: Music, Memories and Feasting

Just days after the Jita celebration, on Aug. 2, 2024, the Zanaki people gathered in the town of Butiama to celebrate the arrival of their New Testament. Hundreds of people gathered on a soccer field to celebrate!

During the celebration, people used traditional instruments to accompany their singing and dancing. There were drums made out of animal skins, a wooden flute, gourds full of beans to use as shakers and a stringed instrument that resembled a fiddle and was made out of a gourd, some wood and strings.

The guest of honor at this celebration was the chief of the Zanaki tribe. He ended his speech by saying:

When it came time for the ceremonial first reading of Scripture, the reader chose Hebrews 4:12:

“For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires” (NLT).

The celebration ended with a huge feast that featured ugali — a cornmeal dough that is a staple in Tanzanian meals — as well as rice, beans, plantains, fish, chicken and watermelon.

Praise God that His Word and salvation have come to the Zanaki community! Thousands of miles away in September 2024, the Tabo people also rejoiced because their revised New Testament had arrived.

The Tabo People: Faith and Fellowship in Papua New Guinea

From Sept. 27-28, 2024, the Tabo people celebrated their revised New Testament in both the Aramia and Fly River dialects of Papua New Guinea! Tabo is spoken by 10,000 people who live along two river systems in a remote part of the country.

The dedication was a beautiful and moving time of celebration for the Tabo people who praised God for the gift of His Word and the transformation that has happened in the community. Over 900 copies of the New Testament were distributed.

A planeload of people from partner organizations commemorated this latest milestone alongside the Tabo people. Countless people all over the world encouraged the Tabo people throughout the years of work — whether through training courses, workshops, flights, consultant checks, teaching kids, grammar, literacy, typesetting and more.

Now, with their revised New Testaments in their hands, the Tabo people plan to deepen their engagement with Scripture and continue worshipping God in their own dialects, ensuring the gospel is central to their lives and culture. A new generation of passionate advocates for God’s Word is rising up to lead within the community too.

God is truly at work among communities all around the world today!

A Greater Story: All of God’s People

The dedications of the Jita, Zanaki and Tabo New Testaments showcase God’s faithfulness to His people. Each celebration highlights the unique ways Scripture transforms lives, strengthens communities and equips future generations to know and follow Christ.

But the work is not done yet: There are still people around the world who are waiting to access the hope of Scripture in their own language. God’s Church is growing, and one day it will include people from every nation and language (Revelation 7:9).

You have the opportunity to be part of seeing the Bible — the greatest story ever told — go out to all people around the world through your prayers, your gifts, your service and even through getting your church involved. Every person deserves access to all of God’s Word in their own language, empowering them to fully know His truth and live in His hope.

Join us as we look forward to the day when all people will rejoice with celebrations like these because they have God’s Word in their language!

New year, new you, right? Our culture puts a lot of emphasis on the start of a new year and the fresh, clean slate it provides for your goals, ambitions and dreams.

At Wycliffe we, too, strive to start each new year with not only strategic goal setting but also a sense of anticipation for what God will do in and through Bible translation.

That’s perhaps never been truer than it is this year — the year we’ve been collectively praying for and working toward for more than 25 years.

What Makes 2025 So Special?

Have you ever done a task well but not fast enough? In our current age of rapidly advancing technology, this predicament has been a common impetus for the development of new apps and systems designed to speed up the process of work without compromising the end results. And in many cases, it works! The world is moving faster than ever before in history but also more slowly than it ever will again. (Let that sink in for a moment!)

The same is true for the global Bible translation movement. Back in 1999, Wycliffe and SIL Global, one of our strategic partners, evaluated the pace of Bible translation. While the critical work was taking place at an ever-expanding global scale, it took decades for a New Testament translation to be completed, let alone a full Bible. We were doing the task well but not fast enough, and too many communities were waiting too long for God’s Word.

That’s when we established a God-sized vision that felt way bigger than any of us — to see a Bible translation in progress for every language still needing one by the year 2025. We called it Vision 2025. At that time, we believed that it would require translation to start in 3,000 languages over the next 25 years. The pace of Bible translation in 1999 meant that, in order to accomplish this, instead of beginning a new translation every two weeks, two translations would need to begin every week.

This felt huge and even overwhelming for many people. (And today, we know that number was closer to 5,000 languages and have had to adjust the goal accordingly!) Up until that point, the highest number of new language engagements in a year had been 25 languages. How could we increase that so significantly? Yes, the vision was big, but we knew God was bigger. We set a bold goal in faith and confidence that it could only be achieved through God’s hand at work in and through His Church.

Vision 2025 Today

Flash forward 26 years. Where does that leave us today?

As of Jan. 1, there are 833 Vision 2025 language communities waiting for Bible translation to start. That represents:

• 131 countries that have achieved Vision 2025.
• 43 countries that have 1 remaining language.
• 24 countries that have 2-5 remaining languages.
• 18 countries that have 6 or more remaining languages.

On average, a new language is engaged every 14 hours. And in 2024 alone, we engaged 616 new languages for the very first time!

Most significantly, every number represents a person who has a story that matters deeply to God. And He wants them to encounter Him through the greatest story ever told — the Bible — in a language and format that they not only understand with their head but that penetrates their hearts and transforms their lives forever.

That’s why we won’t stop working until all people have access to all Scripture. It’s not just about starts — it’s about completions. We long for all people to have the full counsel of God’s Word in their language, worshipping God as described in Revelation 7:9 when John wrote, “After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb” (NLT).

Our Next Steps

Wycliffe and more than 3,000 partners are working together to see this promised future as described in Revelation 7:9 become reality here on earth, just as it’s described in heaven!

Working together means that we embrace these values that lead to accelerated impact:

• Ownership: We want to see the local church own the vision and responsibility for Bible translation in their community. When that happens, Scripture is immediately available for use so that churches are equipped for evangelism, discipleship and church planting!
  • When local churches take ownership of Bible translation for their community, the work is accelerated in incredible ways! Watch the Sihanaka dedication for an example of church-owned translation in Madagascar!

• Partnership: Translation goals, products and plans are determined collaboratively. This includes like-mindedorganizations, local churches and individuals working together to see Bible translation accomplished for communities, countries and even entire regions!
  • See what God has done in Nigeria as a result of partnership and collaboration!

• Stewardship: Biblical stewardship means giving our time, talents and treasures to advance the Kingdom. As we seek to live this out, Bible translation projects are developed, designed, resourced and managed well with an emphasis on accountability and transparency among all partners — including you!
  • As believers, we have the joy and privilege of following the Holy Spirit’s prompts to consider how and where to give. What does Spirit-led giving look like for you?

• Relationship: God made us to be in relationship not only with Him but with others! When we work in relationship among translation teams, local communities and partners, we all get to see the Great Commission advanced through Bible translation and know that we played a part in seeing the gospel go out among the nations.
  • One way you can be in relationship with like-minded believers who are passionate about Bible translation is through the Wycliffe Prayer Community! Join us in praying through timely requests from the field as we together ask God to move and work among His people around the world.

Prioritizing these key values isn’t always easy. After all, as humans we all have our own agendas, desires, ways of working, personal opinions and more. But when we seek to live out unity as Jesus described in John 17:23b, we see a glimpse of who God made us to be and how He’s called us to live: “May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me” (NLT).

Your Next Step: Join the Movement

This year isn’t just important for the global Bible translation movement. It can be important for you too! This is a once-in-history opportunity — even a once-in-eternity opportunity — to see Bible translation start for the last remaining languages.

As part of the generation that will see the gospel go out into the furthest corners of the earth, we invite you to join the movement! Here are just a few ways to get involved this year:

• Pray: We believe prayer is foundational to the work of Bible translation and are incredibly grateful for the people who have committed to praying. Whether you want to receive a weekly prayer request and update via text message or join our online community of like-minded believers to pray for timely needs, your prayers can help change the world.
• Give: God calls us as believers to steward our resources well. This includes our time, talent, treasures and more! When you give to Bible translation, you are making an eternal deposit that will impact lives now and in the future. Whether you want to give toward the greatest needs, a specific translation project or a missionary, your generosity is vital to ensuring people have the opportunity to encounter Jesus personally through Scripture.
• Advocate: When you’re passionate about something, you want to tell everyone about it! Advocacy comes in all shapes and sizes — sharing Wycliffe posts with stats and stories on social media, inviting your friends to learn about Bible translation, connecting your church leaders with resources like our free kids’ curriculum, and more.
• Join the team: If the Holy Spirit is tugging on your heart to serve more directly in the work of Bible translation, we’re here to help you explore what that might look like! Whether short- or long-term, domestic or international, volunteer or staff — there are a variety of ways in which you can get involved when you join the team.

Every person who participates in Bible translation has the opportunity to choose their right next step. As you prayerfully consider yours, you can be sure that no matter which one you take you’ll be contributing to the collective whole: a promised future where all people can worship God in their language.

A God-Sized Goal: Looking Ahead at 2025

As we look ahead to what 2025 holds for Bible translation, we are asking God to continue moving in ways that only He can! We’re asking Him to:

• Pave the way for Bible translation to start in every language still needing it by the end of this calendar year.
• Bring more partners — like-minded organizations, local churches and individuals like you — who will work together to accomplish this God-sized goal.
• Stir up biblical generosity in His Church to collectively support this work so that we can say “yes” to every community requesting Scripture.
• Unify the body of Christ throughout the world as we seek to advance the Great Commission and equip all churches for evangelism, discipleship and church planting.

These aren’t small requests, but we serve an awesome God whose faithfulness in the past provides us with confidence for the future. He, we trust, will continue to do what He says He will do!

So, as you look at 2025, what are you asking God to do? Write it down and tuck it away (we sure are!) so that at the end of the year, you can reflect back on His faithfulness. May we all keep our eyes focused on Him as we rest in who He is: “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen” (‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭3‬:‭20‬-‭21‬, ‭NIV‬‬).

With the start of a new year, you might be inspired to make new goals and plans for the months ahead. Why not do the same for your missions journey? Here are seven practical things you can do this year as you consider how God is inviting you to be involved in the transformational work of Bible translation.

1. Watch a webinar.

Now is the time to explore what your journey to missions could look like! Our one-hour webinars are designed for you to hear from Wycliffe missionaries serving around the world. You’ll get to learn about a variety of topics ranging from Bible translation to the global Church to practical tips for serving and more! Check out our upcoming events.

2. Register for the Perspectives on the World Christian Movement course.

If you’re exploring missions and want to learn more about God’s global purpose to share the gospel with the nations, check out the Perspectives on the World Christian Movement course! Although this class isn’t required in order to serve with Wycliffe, Perspectives can help you dig deeper in your discernment process as you explore serving in missions. Classes are in person or online, and many spring classes start in January!

3. Establish a new, healthy habit.

Participating in God’s global mission can be rewarding but it’s not without its challenges. What habits can you start this year that will help you grow mentally, emotionally and spiritually?

Check out five habits to practice before you become a missionary, or apply one of these 12 practical ways to evaluate and strengthen your emotional health.

Remember: the first step is to ground yourself in Jesus, as Scripture reminds us: “Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong” (Ephesians 3:17, NLT).

4. Serve in your community.

As you consider a path in missions, how are you engaging with your local community today? Perhaps there are ways you can support your missionary friends, serve on your missions team at church or volunteer with local ministries. Grow your passion for what God is doing around the world by joining the Wycliffe prayer community!

5. Talk to your pastor or trusted leader.

If you’re thinking about becoming a missionary, it’s important to let your pastor or church leader know early on in the decision-making process. By building relationships with your pastor or church leader, you will gain support and can work together to fulfill what God is leading you to do. For tips on how to start the conversation, read our blog post “7 Questions to Ask Your Pastor When You're Thinking About Missions.”

6. Pray about your next steps.

7. Schedule a meeting with a recruiter.

Christmas is a season filled with stories. From classic tales like “A Christmas Carol” to family memories passed down through generations, stories draw us together and warm our hearts. There’s something about a well-told story that captures our imaginations, lifts our spirits and leaves a lasting impact.

Think for a moment about your favorite story from childhood. As a kid, Kelly’s mom read her a book that has become one of our family’s favorite fictional stories to kick off the month of December: Barbara Robinson’s 1972 classic, “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.” It’s a hilarious yet deeply moving story of the Herdmans — six misfit kids who, having never heard the biblical Christmas story before, turn their town’s Sunday school Christmas pageant upside down.

The Herdmans’ unconventional approach to the pageant’s performance reminds everyone of what Christmas is really all about. (This beloved story is being brought to the big screen by Dallas Jenkins, in theaters now through January 2025.) For our family, this story never grew old as we read it annually through laughter and tears.

The Birth of Jesus: A Story for All Nations

But no matter how beautiful or special our favorite stories may be, there’s one story that surpasses them all — the story of Jesus’ birth. This is the greatest story ever told, the story of God’s love for us, entering our world through a tiny baby, born in Bethlehem. The birth of Jesus is a story that has changed lives and shaped history for over 2,000 years.

Luke’s Gospel tells it like this:

“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord’” (Luke 2:8-11, NIV).

Understanding the Savior’s Story in Your Language

This is Good News not for a select few but for all people. Imagine hearing about the Savior, about God’s love, but not fully understanding it because it’s in a language that doesn’t resonate with the deepest part of who you are. Much like the Herdmans, how can the greatest story ever told be your story if it’s in words that feel foreign to you?

This Christmas, we are reminded of the wonder of Emmanuel, God with us. More people around the world are experiencing the wonder of Christmas for the very first time, encountering the greatest gift God has ever given us. Yet many are still waiting to encounter the Good News.

In John 1:14, we read: “So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son” (NLT).

Jesus, the Word, didn’t stay distant. He entered into our world, became one of us and spoke our language. He came to break down walls, and to invite every person and language community into the story of God’s love. God’s plan has always been for His story to be shared with all nations.

The Vision of Revelation 7:9

In Revelation 7:9a, we catch a glimpse of heaven: “After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb” (NLT).

This vision shows every language and culture, standing united before the throne of God.

Living Out the Greatest Story Ever Told

As we celebrate Christmas, let’s remember the joy and hope of the greatest story ever told and think about those who are still waiting to hear it — thank you for your part in sharing this great story with people around the world. Thank you for saying “yes” to helping make Bible translation possible.

Together we have the tremendous privilege and joy of living life in light of eternity, knowing that what happens here on earth will echo in heaven — for God’s glory and the good of His people all around the world!

May we not just be witnesses to what God is doing but proclaimers of the awesome God we serve, as together we make the Good News of Jesus Christ known to all the earth, so that everyone, everywhere, gets to experience it for themselves.

As the Chesnuts reflect on Christmas, they remind us of the wonder of the season: Emmanuel, God with us, was born! More people around the world are experiencing the wonder of Christmas for the very first time, and we rejoice as they encounter the greatest gift God has ever given us.

We also pray for the many people around the world who are still waiting. What a wonderful day it will be when every man, woman and child will see the great light — Jesus Christ, our Messiah — and understand that He is the greatest gift we will ever receive.

Have you ever gone caroling, singing Christmas songs on doorsteps or in parks? Joining our voices together to share the joy of Jesus’ birth is a reminder of the angels’ proclamation that night. The joy of that night is also reflected in a popular Christmas carol:

• Hark! The herald angels sing,
• “Glory to the newborn King;
• Peace on earth, and mercy mild,
• God and sinners reconciled!”
• Joyful, all ye nations, rise,
• Join the triumph of the skies;
• With angelic hosts proclaim,
• “Christ is born in Bethlehem!”

Angels serve God by praising Him, obeying His commands, gathering those who love Him and enforcing His justice. Angels also aid people by delivering God’s messages, guiding and protecting them, offering help and strength.

The angels proclaimed truth to Mary, Joseph and the shepherds, reminding them that God was with them. Though their words didn’t remove challenges, the angels’ messages gave strength to trust God’s plan — and these words of comfort echo through Scripture, offering us the same hope and peace today.

Angels in the Christmas Story: Bearers of Life-Changing News

The Christmas story is filled with angelic encounters that reveal God’s love and guidance. Each message didn’t only impact the individuals who received it — it set in motion God’s redemptive plan for humanity. God sent angels not only to inform but to guide, reassure and invite ordinary people to extraordinary roles.

• Zechariah’s Encounter (Luke 1:11-13) Gabriel announced John the Baptist’s birth, preparing the way for the Messiah. Although Zechariah doubted at first, God’s message assured him of what was to come.
• Gabriel’s Message to Mary (Luke 1:26-31) Gabriel brought Mary astonishing news: She would bear the Son of God. Despite her initial fear, Mary responded in faith. Her song of praise (Luke 1:46-55) reminds us of God’s faithfulness, turning fear into hope.
• Joseph’s Dream (Matthew 1:20-21) An angel appeared to Joseph in a dream, calming his fears and encouraging him to take Mary as his wife. Joseph trusted God’s message and embraced his role in God’s story.
• The Shepherds’ Encounter (Luke 2:8-14) A host of angels announce Christ’s birth to humble shepherds, proclaiming, “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased” (Luke 2:14, NLT). They became the first to share the Good News, reminding us that God’s message is for everyone.

Each angelic encounter shows how God meets people in their uncertainty, inviting them into His plan. In the Christmas story, the angels didn’t appear to rulers but to ordinary people. Their stories challenge us to trust God’s plans and proclaim the gospel. God’s Word continues to strengthen believers today. The Kaluli community in Papua New Guinea recently experienced this firsthand as they celebrated the historic dedication of their New Testament.

Celebrating in Song Like the Angels

On Feb. 17, 2024, the Kaluli community in Papua New Guinea celebrated the historic dedication of the New Testament in their language — a culmination of nearly 40 years of work. As the Scriptures were unveiled, the crowd erupted in cheers, dancing and heartfelt worship.

This dedication was more than a celebration; it marked a new chapter for the Kaluli, who now hold God’s Word in their language. Their story is part of a larger movement around the world, as communities celebrate receiving Scripture and experiencing God’s promises in ways that resonate deeply.

Having God’s Word in our own language is cause for celebration; Scripture brings us joy, peace, purpose and hope. The arrival of Scripture in Kaluli has strengthened and inspired the community and equips them to live out God’s promises in powerful ways.

Sharing God’s Message and Declaring His Goodness

The angels’ message at Christ’s birth reminds us that the Good News is for all people. The Kaluli can rejoice because they now have access to that Good News, but there are still many communities around the world who don’t yet have God’s Word in their language.

As followers of Christ, we’re called and empowered to share the hope of God’s Word so that every person has the chance to experience Scripture in a language that touches their heart. Bible translation is one way to spread this hope with the world.

When people read, hear or see the Christmas story in their own language, Christ’s message becomes real and life-changing. When we advocate for Bible translation and make disciples of all nations, we help carry out Jesus' mission (Matthew 28:19). Christmas reminds us that God keeps His promises — He sent Jesus to save us from our sins (Matthew 1:21), and He will return to complete His work.

Even in uncertain times, we can rest in God’s faithfulness. He is with us now, guiding our steps, and His promises give us hope for the future. With confidence in His unfailing love, we are called to share His message, knowing the Good News of Christ brings light to the world.

Dig Deeper

• How has God encouraged you in uncertain times? Reflect on any misconceptions you had about angels and what Scripture has revealed about their roles. Think of a time when God used His Word or other people to comfort you.
  • Further Reading: Luke 1:30-31 + Psalm 91:11-12.

• Who can you encourage with God’s promises this week? Like the angels, we are called to share God’s message of hope with others.
  • Read: Luke 2:10 + Romans 10:17.

Next time you see, sing or hear “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” this season, let the angels’ message inspire you to share the gospel with others. We’re called to proclaim God’s promises — and whether through encouragement or generosity, you can help bring the light of God’s Word to a weary world this year.

Have you ever felt unqualified for a calling — like you’re not the obvious choice for a task?

You’re not alone. We all have moments of doubt, feeling out of place or underprepared for what God calls us to do. But God doesn’t wait for us to have perfect qualifications — He equips those He calls.

Throughout the Bible, God works through unlikely people and unexpected moments. These ordinary people couldn’t see the big picture but chose to trust Him anyway; this couldn’t be more true for the shepherds who came to see Jesus after His birth.

The Shepherds: Unlikely Witnesses to History

Picture that night outside Bethlehem: Shepherds, men on the margins of society, stood in total darkness, eyes adjusted as they guarded their sheep. Their work was simple. Their lives were humble. No one expected much from them — they were outsiders, unnoticed, doing their duty far from the public eye.

Suddenly, an angel shattered the silence, and “… the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified” (Luke 2:9, NIV). Yet these shepherds — ordinary men — became the first to hear history’s greatest news: The Messiah was born!

Without hesitation, they hurried to Bethlehem. After seeing Christ, as a baby in a manger, the shepherds couldn’t keep the news to themselves. They told everyone, and “all who heard the shepherds’ story were astonished” (Luke 2:18, NLT). These men, not scholars or religious leaders, became God’s unexpected messengers to proclaim the birth of His Son.

Like the shepherds, you have a story to share! God can use your voice in ways beyond what you might expect. Advocating for Bible translation among your friends, family and church matters! It enables people around the world to encounter this same Good News in their own language so they too can know the Savior.

Seeing God’s Work in the Darkness

It’s easy to believe God works through people with talent or status. Yet the shepherds' story reminds us that God chooses those who feel overlooked or unworthy.

The skills God is developing in you right now aren’t wasted, even if they feel hidden or small. What seems insignificant today could be part of a bigger plan.

You matter to your heavenly Father. Throughout Scripture, God does amazing things through people society ignores. He values those who are often overlooked and uses those who felt ordinary or like an odd choice — like Moses who was not confident in his ability to speak eloquently (Exodus 4:10), the ostracized woman who anointed Christ with her perfume (Luke 7), Paul who was called to be an apostle after formerly persecuting Christians (Acts 22) and the little children who wanted to be close to Jesus (Matthew 19:14).

He works through us to bring His light into dark places (Matthew 5:14). By partnering with the work of Bible translation, you can be part of making His Word accessible to people, helping others see God’s love right where they are.

God’s Pattern: The Unlikely and Unexpected

Just as God called humble shepherds to share Christ’s coming, He is working today through ordinary people and everyday moments to share the Good News around the world through Bible translation.

Reaching the Kunama Diaspora

On an ordinary day in December 2017, Wendy Scott-Penson was busy ministering to Wycliffe partners and connecting their resources to Bible translation projects in communities around the world when she received an unusual call from a man named Stefano.

Stefano, a Kunama speaker displaced to the United States, was determined to bring the Bible to his people, who had been scattered globally after fleeing civil unrest in Eritrea in the late 1990s.

After traveling on foot to Ethiopia and enduring hardship in refugee camps, Stefano credited God for sustaining the Kunama refugees: “If not for help from God, many would have passed away.”

Stefano accepted Jesus as his Savior in the U.S. and realized the need for God’s Word in Kunama. “We don’t want anyone left behind,” he said.

His phone call to Wycliffe led to collaboration with the Eritrean Bible Society and other organizations. Eventually, two translation teams were formed — one in Ethiopia and another in Canada — to bring the Bible to the Kunama diaspora (dispersed people groups who settle outside of their homeland). It all started with one simple phone call.

How Can You Be God’s Light Today?

God’s work through ordinary people like the shepherds, Wendy, Stefano and countless others shows us that we don’t need extraordinary status or qualifications to be part of His mission. We just need to say “yes” and to trust Him to use us for His purpose. As you consider how God may be calling you, remember that advocating — telling others and getting your church and family involved — for Bible translation is one powerful way to share His love and bring the light of His Word to people everywhere in their own language.

This Advent, you can celebrate and bring hope to people — wherever you are. Whether through prayer, generosity or sharing, your actions make a difference.

Digging Deeper

• How is God prompting you to step out in faith? Like the shepherds who left their sheep, following God’s call may come at a cost. What step of faith could you take this week, even if it feels uncomfortable or risky?
  • Further Reading: Isaiah 52:7 + 1 Corinthians 1:27-28.

• How can you reflect God’s love this Advent? Just as the shepherds shared the Good News, you have the opportunity to spread joy by supporting Bible translation. Helping others access God’s Word in their language brings lasting hope and shines God’s light in dark places.
  • Further Reading: Romans 10:15 + 1 John 4:10-11.

What comes to mind when you think of the Christmas story? Maybe it’s a peaceful nativity scene — a “silent night.” But Mary and Joseph’s entire world was likely anything but peaceful and calm.

In the months leading up to the birth of Christ, everyone in the Christmas story faced an uncertain future. As the soon-to-be father of Jesus, Joseph’s life must have felt overwhelming. Like Mary, he faced a choice when he heard the news of Christ’s coming through his betrothed: Would he respond in fear or in trust?

We all face similar choices when we go through hard seasons: How will we respond to God’s prompting in our lives? How will we live in light of eternity through present struggles?

Through the gift of God’s Word, we are able to know and be in relationship with our Creator. The Bible leads us to Him. Without access to Scripture, we wouldn’t be able to draw near to the hope God’s promises bring or relate to the courage of people like Joseph in our own seasons of uncertainty. That’s why Bible translation is so important: God’s Word equips us with truth, comfort and courage in hard times.

Joseph’s Change of Plans

Joseph was in a difficult situation, but he had a plan: He intended to quietly end his engagement to avoid public shame after learning of Mary’s pregnancy.

But as he wrestled with what to do, an angel appeared in a dream, saying: “Joseph, son of David … do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife. For the child within her was conceived by the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 1:20b-c, NLT).

The angel reassured him that God was at work: Mary would have a son and Joseph was to name Him “Jesus” because “… he will save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21b, NLT). That must have been a shocking revelation during an already unsettling dream. But when Joseph woke, he obeyed the angel and took Mary as his wife (Matthew 1:24).

Joseph’s story teaches us powerful lessons in obedience, courage and faith:

• Joseph desired to act with kindness and dignity — When faced with what seemed like betrayal, Joseph planned to end the engagement quietly to protect Mary (Matthew 1:19). Instead of shaming her, he planned to choose compassion. While we can’t always control our circumstances, we can choose how we respond to them.
• Joseph faced real fear with courage — While angels often told people not to fear their presence, the angel told Joseph not to fear taking Mary as his wife (Matthew 1:20). Joseph likely was afraid of public humiliation and rejection, but God met him in the midst of that fear. In life, there will be things that are frightening, but we can trust God to carry us through them just as Joseph did.
• Joseph had faith in the unbelievable — Trusting that Mary’s pregnancy was by the Holy Spirit must have felt impossible. Yet, Joseph chose faith in God’s message over the opinions of others. He likely risked his reputation and relationships to do as the angel said.

Like Joseph, we may face fear, rejection or loss when we follow God’s calling for our lives. But when our life is uncertain, we can cling to the hope found in Jesus Christ as we draw near to Him through Scripture.

Facing Uncertainty by Putting Faith in Action

We all need something to lean on when going through hard seasons. The Sheko people of Ethiopia had long been in desperate need of hope: Civil unrest was ever-present and felt unnerving.

But local Christian leaders took action. They wanted to point their people toward the hope found in Christ through Scripture even when the political situation in their world was discouraging.

So they formed the Sheko Bible translation team. While these believers could not prevent hardships, they offered people comfort through God’s Word. They focused on completing the New Testament — but God had a bigger plan.

In 2019, more conflict ravaged the Sheko region. Leaders turned to their people to lead reconciliation efforts, believing the key to peace was within their community itself. Among those chosen to lead the efforts were the Bible translators. The Bible translation project had become a symbol of hope for the Sheko people. One leader said:

The translators’ involvement helped the peace process succeed, restoring stability. Today, with the New Testament complete, the Sheko people have found a new source of hope through God’s Word.

The Sheko Christians found comfort in Scripture in their language. Their trust in God continues to carry them through difficult circumstances, much like Joseph’s faith carried him through uncertainties.

Spreading Hope Through the Christmas Story

Joseph faced the unknown with faith, trusting God’s plan even when the future was unclear. His obedience allowed hope to take root in his heart, allowing him the opportunity to be part of God’s great plan of salvation through the birth of Christh. We, too, can find hope in God’s promises during difficult times.

Partnering with the work of Bible translation ensures that more people experience the Good News of Christ’s birth in a language that touches their hearts, spreading joy and lasting hope in all seasons.

Digging Deeper

• What emotions do you think Mary and Joseph felt when God revealed His plan? Consider their mix of fear, awe and trust. How do Joseph’s responses encourage you in your circumstances?
  • Further Reading: Luke 1:46-55 + Matthew 1:20-21.

• In this season of life, what step of faith is God calling you to take? Joseph risked his reputation to follow God’s direction for his life. How can his obedience inspire you to act boldly, even when it’s difficult?
  • Further Reading: Proverbs 3:5-6 + Isaiah 26:4.

Learning about other cultures’ holiday traditions often starts in childhood, perhaps with school projects about Boxing Day or how Dutch children leave wooden shoes out for Christmas instead of stockings. But for missionaries like Stacy Cawley, experiencing holidays in another culture brings those traditions to life in unexpected and meaningful ways.

Stacy and her family had their first overseas Christmas during their term in Tanzania, and it was unlike any they’d experienced before. Instead of cozy winter weather, they found themselves celebrating in the heat of the African summer.

Stacy recalls singing “dashing through the snow” with her children while they sweated through their shirts, coloring a paper “Christmas tree” with every shade of green and blue crayon they could find. Despite the absence of traditional decorations and familiar comforts, that Christmas marked the beginning of a journey of discovery, adaptation and connection.

Holidays That Stretch Across Time

In the United States, holiday greetings are usually short-lived. By the second week of January, “Happy New Year” is rarely heard. But Stacy quickly learned that in many African countries, New Year’s greetings last for months. Whenever someone greets a friend for the first time in the new year — whether it’s February, March or even May — they offer blessings and well-wishes.

Unexpected timelines also shaped Stacy’s family’s holiday traditions. One year, a shipment of Christmas presents from their children’s grandparents didn’t arrive until March. Undeterred, Stacy and her family celebrated a “second Christmas” with carols and the Christmas story, cherishing the gifts that came months late. Even Christmas cards arrived unpredictably — sometimes as late as August — keeping the holiday spirit alive long after the season had officially ended. These experiences taught Stacy to hold traditions loosely and embrace the joy that comes with flexibility and spontaneity.

Food and Gifts with Local Flavor

Holiday meals often reflect local flavors and resources, and Stacy’s overseas experiences provided her family with opportunities to enjoy unique culinary traditions.

While serving in Papua New Guinea, Stacy’s friends Michael and Bev hosted single missionaries for Christmas Eve, offering roasted lamb imported from New Zealand. In Cameroon, a neighbor gifted Stacy’s family a live chicken for Christmas — a gesture of generosity that initially confused her children, who thought it was a pet.

Even gift-giving took on new forms. Stacy recalls hosting a gift exchange with over 30 missionary colleagues in Cameroon. The most coveted items weren’t the latest gadgets or luxury goods; they were thoughtful, practical gifts like homemade cookies, a jar of American peanut butter and a babysitting coupon.

Thanksgiving, too, required some adjustments. In Nigeria, Michael and Bev invited local friends to experience an American Thanksgiving. With turkey expensive and hard to find, chicken became the centerpiece. Local friends helped bake pies and prepare dishes, creating a festive atmosphere that blended cultures and traditions.

Customs That Bridge Cultures

One of Stacy’s favorite parts of celebrating the holidays overseas was participating in customs that bridged her family’s traditions with those of their host communities.

• In Tanzania, churches collected rice, beans, oil, soap and other essentials to create gift bundles wrapped in colorful fabric. These bundles, accompanied by copies of the Gospel of John, were delivered to families in need on Christmas Day. Stacy’s family embraced this tradition and continued it when they moved to Cameroon, finding it a beautiful way to share both physical and spiritual nourishment.
• In Guatemala, missionaries joined local families for a traditional Christmas Eve meal of tamales wrapped in banana leaves. At midnight, fireworks lit up the night sky, creating a joyful and festive celebration.
• Other customs required creative adaptations. In one country where Halloween wasn’t culturally appropriate, Stacy and her family organized a “Harvest Hoo-Rah.” Guests brought encouraging notes and small treats for each other, and the evening was filled with gratitude and fellowship.

Lessons in Simplicity and Generosity

Over time, Stacy noticed how her family’s priorities shifted as they embraced the simplicity of life overseas. One year, her 7-year-old son asked for potato chips as his only Christmas gift — a humble request that reflected a growing understanding of what truly matters.

One of Stacy’s most meaningful holiday memories came during her first Christmas in Tanzania. She discovered that the family who sold them milk also pastored a small church, but only the pastor owned a Bible. Thanks to the work of SIL Global (Wycliffe’s primary partner), the Bible had already been translated into their language. Stacy’s family was able to gift each family in the church a Bible and a children’s story Bible. The thought of these families reading the Christmas story in a language that touched their hearts for the first time deepened Stacy’s passion for helping others access God’s Word.

Holiday Resources for Kids

Help children grow in their faith with engaging resources for every season. From Advent activities and family devotionals to homeschool curriculum and VBS programs, Wycliffe offers tools to support your family’s journey together.

Explore Kids' Resources

The Heart of the Holidays

While the details of holiday celebrations may change — local foods instead of familiar dishes, homemade decorations instead of store-bought ones or celebrations spread across months — the essence of the holidays remains the same.

For Stacy and her family, the holidays became an opportunity to focus on the heart of the season. Thanksgiving was a time to reflect on God’s goodness. Christmas celebrated the miraculous gift of Jesus Christ. The new year offered a fresh reminder of God’s mercies, which are new every morning. These moments weren’t just about personal reflection; they were about community. Stacy and her family found joy in sharing meals, exchanging gifts and celebrating with colleagues, neighbors and friends from diverse backgrounds. The relationships formed during these celebrations became a source of strength and joy, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

How You Can Support Missionaries During the Holidays

Missionaries like Stacy may celebrate the holidays differently than families back home, but their focus remains the same: glorifying God and sharing His love with the people they serve. Whether through unique gift exchanges, shared meals or adapted customs, missionaries embrace the beauty of cross-cultural connection during the holidays.

This holiday season, consider partnering with a missionary through your prayers or financial support. Your partnership can help bring the joy of the gospel to communities around the world, ensuring that the message of hope and salvation is shared in every language and culture.

In a difficult-to-reach region of Africa, at least 27 partners are working together to bring God’s Word to the area. These partners include eight churches representing multiple denominations.

This project is the first component of a 10-year regional strategy that is responding to the requests of churches in this area. It’s designed to empower and equip these churches to advance the Great Commission in this region and beyond.

We give glory to God for His work in these communities. This cluster project started in December 2023, and lives are already changing — lives like Basira’s.*

“My life has greatly changed.”

Basira lives in a part of Africa where people have endured decades of conflict and instability. Sadly, Basira’s husband died during these times, leaving her to raise their 3-year-old son by herself.

Feeling alone in the midst of her sorrow and struggles, Basira heard the message that Jesus loves her and died for her sins. God touched Basira’s heart in that moment, and she chose to follow Him.

Since that day, Basira has joined a Bible translation team, where she is working to bring the Good News of Jesus to her people in a language and format they can clearly understand.

“My life has greatly changed in the things of God,” she said. “The process of translating the Bible stories has helped me to preach and share the gospel in a much better way than previously.”

God is using Basira and other local translators to accelerate Bible translation in communities waiting for His Word in their language.

A growing relationship with the Lord

Kendi* is part of the same cluster project as Basira. Bible translation efforts in Kendi’s community are helping to deepen his commitment to Jesus.

“I used to pray only on Sundays,” Kendi said, “but now I pray regularly.”

Kendi’s walk with God strengthened after he joined the local Bible translation team and began translating Scripture in his own language. Now he is participating in the vital work that is helping other people come to know Jesus and follow Him wholeheartedly.

“Every time I open the Bible, I desire more of the Word of God in my life,” he said. “I used to get angry quickly, but now I can control my anger.”

When people receive Scripture in a language and format they clearly understand, God uses it to change hearts and mold lives into the image of Christ. That’s what Kendi — and many others in his community — are experiencing today.

The Holy Spirit is moving and working in the lives of people like Basira and Kendi — and through churches in Africa and all around the world! Bible translation is truly a global partnership that God is using to strengthen churches, disciple believers and bring the Good News to entire communities.

Thank you for your prayers, gifts and advocacy in support of Bible translation. Your participation enables Wycliffe and our global partners to say yes when communities in Africa and around the world ask for help to translate Scripture.

*Name and picture changed.

Meet Judy! She began serving with Wycliffe in 2015. She has contributed to Bible translation by serving in a variety of roles, including in international relations in Washington, D.C., advocating for communities in Asia, mobilization and most recently in organizational relations for Wycliffe’s Church Relations team.

Discovering a New Role

At Wycliffe, we’re committed to local church ownership, building local capacity and fostering healthy collaboration between both the U.S. and global expressions of the Church. We prayerfully discern God’s will, wholeheartedly seek His wisdom and eagerly follow His guidance in our pursuit to serve with excellence. We want to help meet Bible translation needs in timely, innovative ways!

Judy shared about a time in 2017 when she needed to take on a different role. Due to family matters, she needed to make a change so she could work from home. Although Judy has changed roles many times over the years, it isn’t always easy to discern how God might be leading her to serve next. She said:

Judy knew her contributions were valued by her team, so she was concerned about what would happen if she moved to a new team. She said, “I worried about what … [that would] do to my team, as I was leaving a hole in my team.”

As Judy began exploring new ways that she could serve with her skills, she learned that many teams had open roles and opportunities for her to make meaningful contributions. Even though her team would be left with an opening, there were a lot of other teams that needed support. She said, “I realized that there are needs all across the organization.”

As we participate in God’s work, we discern how to steward the resources that God has given us and explore how God is leading us to serve in His mission.

Prayer and Community

If you’re contemplating making a change in your role, Judy recommends asking lots of questions about what opportunities are available. It’s also helpful to get feedback from people you trust about what roles and opportunities might be good fits for you. For Judy, it was important to keep her church updated and in the loop throughout the process of discovering her new role. She recommends intentionally praying about the decision:

Asking for prayer is an invitation for your community — your family, friends, Bible study group, church and more — to join in what God is doing and take part in the transformational work of Bible translation. As we depend on God, we pray with expectation, just like Scripture reminds us:

Taking on New Things

Changing roles requires a dedication to personal and professional growth, and learning new things means that we get to practice agility and perseverance.

Judy said “yes” to what God was leading her to do, and discovered the new place He had for her in mobilization. She said:

Think about how God might be leading you to say “yes” today!

Do you have a favorite Christmas hymn? Maybe you love singing “Joy to the World” at your church’s Christmas Eve service or feel a sense of peace listening to the verses in “Silent Night.”

Songs help us reflect on the Christmas season and find comfort, joy and peace. One beloved hymn, “O Holy Night,” captures the heart of Advent: “A thrill of hope! The weary world rejoices. Long lay the world in sin and error pining, till He appeared and the soul felt its worth.”

Facing an unknown future, Mary lifted her voice in praise to God. She was reminded that God fulfills His promises and that His plan for her life was bigger than her fears. Her song, the Magnificat (which is Latin for “magnify”), overflows with joy in God’s faithfulness:

• “Oh, how my soul praises the Lord.
• How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior!
• For he took notice of his lowly servant girl,
• and from now on all generations will call me blessed.
• For the Mighty One is holy,
• and he has done great things for me.
• He shows mercy from generation to generation
• to all who fear him” (Luke 1:46-50, NLT).

Mary’s response in the midst of uncertainty demonstrates that hope takes root in our lives when we trust God’s promises. The Magnificat is something that we can turn to today when we feel weary and need a reminder that God has a redemptive plan for our lives — whether we can see it in the moment or not.

But not everyone around the world today can access verses from the Book of Luke in their language. That’s why Bible translation matters: It brings us the strength, comfort and peace found in God’s Word in the midst of our fears.

Mary’s Faith in the Face of Fear

Mary had every reason to be afraid. She was young, engaged and told by an angel she was pregnant. This was overwhelming news. Imagine her thoughts: “Will my family reject me? Will Joseph believe me?” Fear of rejection must have weighed heavily on her.

But Mary didn’t dwell on fear: “Mary responded, ‘I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true’ …” (Luke 1:38, NLT). Later Elizabeth affirmed her faith by saying, “You are blessed because you believed that the Lord would do what he said” (Luke 1:45, NLT).

Mary offers us practical reminders for focusing on faith over fear:

• Start with praise — Instead of worrying, Mary glorified God: “… Oh, how my soul praises the Lord” (Luke 1:46, NLT). She anchored herself in God’sf aithfulness.
• Embrace your role in God’s story — Mary trusted His purposes: “For he took notice of his lowly servant girl, and from now on all generations will call me blessed” (Luke 1:48, NLT).
• Reflect on God’s goodness and justice — Mary found comfort in God’s history of faithfulness and promises: “His mighty arm has done tremendous things!” (Luke 1:51a, NLT).

Mary dispelled fear with praise, trusted God’s plan and reflected on His faithfulness. Through faith, she uncovered lasting hope — and we can too.

Women of Faith: Facing Fear and Trusting God

Throughout history, there are countless stories of women just like Mary who trusted in God’s faithfulness, despite fear and uncertainty. Whether they were the women listed in Jesus’ own genealogy or Bible translation pioneers, these women navigated obstacles as they lived out God’s call on their lives.

Even today, God continues to work through unexpected people and circumstances.

Selmira is a part of the Napo Quechua Bible translation team and is working to bring God’s Word to remote Amazon River villages. She perseveres in this work, passionately sharing Scripture with those struggling with alcoholism and violence.

Selmira’s journey began with dreams that led her to seek God through a Bible she could understand. She later discovered a workshop on sharing Bible stories in oral cultures just like hers. There, she met a Wycliffe translator named Christa. Selmira invited Christa and her translation partner, Maritsa, to her village to learn more Bible stories. As Selmira connected with other believers and deepened her understanding of Scripture, her life changed: She drank less and grew in love and compassion for those around her.

With every new story she translates, God reveals to Selmira how He’s been working in her life. Selmira’s faith and perseverance are reminiscent of Mary’s.

Selmira’s favorite thing about translation work is sharing the Bible stories with others. She spends every Sunday afternoon reading the newly translated stories to anyone who wants to listen. Selmira is building a legacy of faith in her community through her translation work. She said:

When people read, hear or see Scripture in their language, fear turns to faith and hearts are touched like never before. Selmira’s passion and perseverance remind us that Bible translation cultivates lasting hope.

Trusting God is not always easy in this weary world. But through living by faith, women like Selmira are pointing people to Christ. And you can help people encounter Christ through His life-changing Word too!

Spreading Hope Through Mary’s Faith

Even when her role in God’s plan felt unclear, Mary trusted His promises. God worked through her to change history, and Mary left a legacy of faith in God that continues to inspire today.

Like Mary, Selmira and so many others, we can find hope in God’s faithfulness during our struggles. These stories call us to trust Him and share the hope that He gives us with others. And because we have access to the Bible, we are able to find hope in Christ through uncertain times.

When people receive the Christmas story and other Scripture passages like the Magnificat in their own language, it transforms their understanding of God’s love. This is why we, at Wycliffe, are so passionate about Bible translation. By partnering in this work, you’re helping to ensure that everyone can experience the life-changing message of Jesus’ birth in a way that truly resonates with them.

This Advent, you can help others encounter the Good News of Christ through His Word so more people can receive the greatest story ever told in a language that touches their hearts.

Digging Deeper

• How has fear or uncertainty influenced your choices? When fear overwhelms you, how can Mary’s trust in God inspire you to step out in faith? Reflect on how God’s Word gives strength during uncertain times.
  • Further reading: Isaiah 41:10.

• How can you reflect God’s love this Advent season? Just as Mary praised God and left a legacy of faith, we can offer the gift of Scripture through Bible translation and leave an eternal legacy as well. When people encounter God’s promises in their language, it brings transformation — now and for generations to come.
  • Further reading: 1 John 4:9-11.

Picture your favorite Christmas traditions — the twinkling lights, family gathered close, the laughter over a shared meal or the joy of exchanging gifts. Each of these moments carries its own traditions and significance, all adding to the way we celebrate this holiday. Yet as personal and familiar as these customs may feel, Christmas is celebrated in countless ways across the globe, with every culture bringing its own unique perspective and meaning.

Whether through joyful gatherings, parades, carols or special dishes, Christmas looks a little different everywhere, but the heart of it remains the same.

Christmas Traditions from 5 Countries Around the World

As an organization working around the world to share the Good News of the gospel in ways that people clearly understand, we thought it would be fun to share some of the unique ways that countries celebrate Christmas. It’s a chance to not only appreciate how different cultures celebrate this wonderful holiday but also to remind ourselves why Christmas exists — to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ!

1. NIGERIA

“Merry Christmas” in Igbo, one of the many languages spoken in Nigeria, is E keresimesi Oma! Christmas in Nigeria is a time when families come together to celebrate and enjoy time together.

Many families kick off Christmas with all-night parties on Christmas Eve, where laughter, music and dancing fill the air. When morning comes, people head to church for a service of gratitude and worship, a beautiful way to begin Christmas Day. Sometimes choirs even take the celebration outside, visiting homes to sing carols for neighbors and friends.

On Christmas Day, it’s tradition for children to wear a special “Christmas cloth” — a new outfit gifted by their parents — and go around the neighborhood receiving small gifts, often in the form of money. Family members exchange presents, and kids enjoy playing with firecrackers, adding some excitement to the festivities!

No Christmas celebration in Nigeria would be complete without a delicious meal. Families enjoy traditional dishes like jollof rice cooked in a tomato stew and pounded yam. Popular meats include beef, goat, chicken or ram, often served with fried rice, vegetable salad and flavorful stews.

2. BELGIUM

“Merry Christmas” in Dutch is Vrolijk Kerstfeest! And unlike many countries around the world, Belgians typically celebrate the gift-giving part of Christmas on December 6, which is St. Nicholas Day. The night before St. Nicholas Day, kids put their shoes in front of the fireplace. Then in the night, St. Nicholas (or Sinterklaas) climbs down the chimney and delivers presents, leaving them in and around the kids’ shoes.

For many Belgians, Christmas Eve is when the real celebration begins, as families gather for a memorable meal. The evening kicks off with a drink and nibbles (what we’d call appetizers), leading to dishes like seafood or stuffed turkey. But the highlight is the dessert — the Kerststronk, a festive yule log sponge cake blanketed in chocolate buttercream and shaped to look like a tree log.

Christmas Day in Belgium is cozy and joyful. Some families exchange small gifts the night before, while others save them for Christmas morning, which begins with a special breakfast: freshly baked rolls, pastries, cold meats and sometimes a sweet bread shaped like baby Jesus. People spend the rest of the day visiting friends and extended family, enjoying the presence of their loved ones.

3. NEW ZEALAND

“Merry Christmas” in Maori, one of the many languages spoken in New Zealand, is Meri Kirihimete! Since New Zealand is in the Southern Hemisphere, Christmas falls during summer.

Instead of a traditional winter meal, New Zealanders often fire up “the barbie” (barbecue) for Christmas lunch, grilling everything from ham to shrimp and fish. For dessert, people enjoy treats like pavlova, meringues, fruit salad and even hot fruit pudding served with custard and ice cream — a refreshing treat for a warm holiday!

In the weeks leading up to Christmas, cities across New Zealand hold vibrant Santa parades with giant floats. Santa himself greets families along the streets — a tradition that started back in the early 1900s. Red, white and green are the festive colors here, too, but with a unique twist: Red represents the blooming pōhutukawa tree (New Zealand’s “Christmas tree”), white represents the sandy beaches and green represents the country’s lush landscapes.

4. PUERTO RICO

“Merry Christmas” in Spanish is “Feliz Navidad!” In Puerto Rico, the Christmas season isn’t just celebrated in December; celebrations begin as early as November and can continue until mid-January! Across weeks of celebrations, Puerto Rican Christmas features music, worship and vibrant community gatherings.

One cherished tradition is the Misa de Aguinaldos — a special series of masses held each morning at 6 a.m. from Dec. 15-24. These services are filled with music, featuring traditional Puerto Rican instruments like the cuatro (a local guitar), güiros (a percussion instrument) and maracas, creating a joyful atmosphere of song and prayer.

Another beloved custom is a parranda, or Puerto Rican-style Christmas caroling. Starting late in the evening, friends surprise neighbors by singing at their doorsteps, often causing the awakened hosts to join in. This lively gathering can continue from house to house until sunrise, filling the streets with music and holiday cheer.

The main Christmas celebration, Nochebuena (which means “the Good Night” and falls on Christmas Eve), is a night for families to gather for a midnight mass and a grand feast. The meal centers around lechon asado (slow-roasted pork), served with rice, plantains and arroz con dulce (a sweet rice pudding). Christmas Day, or Navidad, is a time to relax and enjoy the warmth of family after the excitement of Nochebuena.

5. GEORGIA

In Georgia, “Merry Christmas” is გილოცავთ შობა-ახალ წელს! (written as “Gilotsavt shoba-akhal ts’els” in the English alphabet). This country, nestled near Turkey and Russia, celebrates Christmas a bit differently from many others; following the Eastern Orthodox calendar, Georgia observes the holiday on Jan. 7.

Instead of the typical pine tree, Georgians decorate a chichilaki — made from dried wood shaved into curly strips to form a small tree shape. These are adorned with fruits, sweets and topped with a wooden cross. On Jan. 19, many Georgians burn their chichilaki to symbolize the end of the previous year’s hardships and bring a meaningful close to the season.

On Christmas Day, which is celebrated on Jan. 7, not Dec. 25, Georgians parade in the streets, wearing festive garments (some even dress as figures from the Christmas story) and proudly carrying Georgian flags. This joyful tradition called Alilo brings communities together to celebrate the holiday with music, color and a spirit of unity.

Kids in Georgia receive their gifts on New Year’s Eve from Tovlis Papa (“Grandfather Snow”), who dresses in all-white sheepskin clothing to keep warm as he delivers treats from the mountains. Festive foods like gozinaki (a honey walnut candy) and churchkhela (a sweet made from grape juice and walnuts) are traditional to Georgian Christmas celebrations.

Many Traditions, One Joyful Message

So there you have it — five different ways that people around the world celebrate the same holiday. Maybe your family or culture has some unique ways of celebrating Christmas too. As you enjoy this wonderful time of year, be sure to stop and remember the reason why Christmas exists: God fulfilled a promise he made thousands of years ago to mankind when he sent us the Messiah, Jesus Christ. And that’s a wonderful reason to celebrate!

Steve and Linda’s Journey: A Calling Answered

Steve and Linda’s journey with Wycliffe Bible Translators began just two days after their wedding, over six decades ago. Reflecting on their decision to join the organization, Steve shared, “We really felt called to serve with Wycliffe for a couple of reasons. One was the power of the Word of God in our own heart language that really changed our lives. The second was that both Linda and I separately heard about the thousands of language groups worldwide that had no portion of God’s Word in their language — the language that they live in, pray in and love in. And that made us feel that this was something worth giving our lives to.”

Their unwavering dedication has remained constant through decades of challenges and triumphs. From learning new languages and adapting to different cultures to mentoring the next generation of translators, Steve and Linda have continually poured themselves into this vital work.

The Impact of God’s Work: Transforming Lives Through Scripture

The Sheldons’ passion for Bible translation stems from a deep conviction that God’s Word can transform lives. “Over the years, we’ve seen, firsthand, and also heard countless stories of ways that God has used His Word in the hearts and lives of people receiving it for the first time to absolutely transform their lives,” Steve said.

One powerful example that Steve shared was about a young indigenous leader in Brazil. Two women translated Scripture into his language, and the young man was transformed. He went on to become a fluent Portuguese speaker and a leader in an organization that promoted Bible translation among indigenous people and others worldwide. This young man's story is a beautiful illustration of how God can plant seeds in someone's heart that will then bear fruit for years or even generations to come.

Steve and Linda’s work has been foundational in inspiring others to take up the mantle of Bible translation. John Chesnut, president and CEO of Wycliffe USA, noted, “Steve and Linda have served in Wycliffe for over 57 years, and their passion has always been about the unreached people groups of the world. … It’s evident that their work is a calling.”

The Bigger Picture: A Global Movement

Steve and Linda Sheldon know that they are part of a much larger narrative — one in which God is moving through the global Church to bring His Word to every language community. Today we are witnessing unprecedented acceleration in Bible translation as churches and communities around the world take ownership of this work. The Sheldons’ efforts have contributed to this generational Kingdom work; people whose lives were first touched by the gospel in their own language are now working to bring it to others.

God is using the global Church to impact the Bible translation movement in ways that we have never seen before in the history of the world. It’s incredible to see how God is engaging churches and communities, including those previously considered “unreached,” to lead and promote Bible translation efforts.

Wycliffe is privileged to be a catalyst in this global movement, collaborating with partner organizations worldwide to ensure that more people can encounter Jesus through Scripture in a language and format they clearly understand. The exponential growth of the Church is a testament to God’s faithfulness — and the dedication of individuals like Steve and Linda, who have given their lives to this life-changing work.

Personal Stories: Faithfulness in the Face of Challenges

Steve and Linda’s journey has not been without difficulties. Linda, reflecting on Steve’s resilience, shared poignant moments from their life: “He [Steve] was held up at gunpoint … had malaria so many times and was beaten up — but he never gave up despite all those things. He’s my hero.”

The couple’s unwavering faith and commitment, even in the face of adversity, are truly inspiring.

When thinking about the resilience of translators and missionaries, Steve talked about the significant role that women have played in Bible translation and their invaluable contributions to the mission.

Steve specifically highlighted Sarah Gudschinsky, a brilliant linguist and the first woman ever on the SIL Global board of directors, as one of his personal heroes of the faith. Her determination and courage set a powerful example for all those involved in the Bible translation ministry, but especially Steve.

A Focus on God’s Word

One Scripture that has profoundly shaped Steve and Linda’s life and ministry is Romans 12:1-2 from the J.B. Phillips New Testament translation:

• “With eyes wide open to the mercies of God, I beg you, my brothers, as an act of intelligent worship, to give him your bodies, as a living sacrifice, consecrated to him and acceptable by him. Don’t let the world around you squeeze you into its own mould, but let God re-mould your minds from within, so that you may prove in practice that the plan of God for you is good, meets all his demands and moves towards the goal of true maturity.”

These verses reflect the couple’s heart to serve God wholeheartedly, no matter the challenges they face. These Scriptures are powerful for both Steve and Linda, prompting them to stay focused on Jesus. It reminds the couple of an indigenous people group they worked with in the Amazon who keep their eyes fixed on their goal during their hunts.

“The people we work[ed] with are hunters and gatherers. They place great emphasis on seeing — you have to see with every one of your senses,” Steve shared.

Steve remembered one young man: He was standing in a canoe, focused intently on the treetops, searching for a monkey hidden far above. The man heard a slight rustling of leaves and shot an arrow with precision. He then climbed to the very top of the tree to retrieve his catch. Steve noted: “It’s an amazing process, but they never give up because their eyes are constantly focused on how they are going to get that food.”

He continued, “If we just keep our eyes focused on Jesus in exactly that same way, I believe God can help us through absolutely anything.” The young man wasn’t worried about tipping over in the canoe or falling out; his eyes were fixed on one place only — up. It’s a good reminder for us to keep our eyes on Jesus, even when things around us compete for our attention or throw us off balance.

This story is a beautiful metaphor for the perseverance and dedication that Steve and Linda have shown throughout their ministry.

A Lasting Legacy

Steve and Linda Sheldon’s story is a beautiful illustration of what it means to live out faithfulness and service to God. As they continue to mentor and support others in the translation community, their legacy is one of hope, transformation and an unwavering commitment to God’s call.

Their lives remind us that Bible translation is not just about words on a page but about people encountering Jesus through Scripture in a language that touches their hearts. It’s about communities being transformed, hope restored and lives changed for eternity. Steve said, “I wake up thinking every day, ‘I get to be involved.’ Just like the Word made a change in our lives, there are men and women, boys and girls, all around the world who are going to have the same opportunity to be impacted by the life-changing, living Word of God.”

Join the Movement

There are still over 900 Vision 2025 languages that need a first portion of Scripture. Around the world today, God is calling people to join the Bible translation movement and be part of something bigger than themselves. If you feel inspired by Steve and Linda’s story, consider how you might be part of this transformative work too.

Whether through prayer, financial support or joining the work, there are many ways to get involved. God is inviting us all to have a front-row seat to watch Him work and participate in what He’s doing around the world. Let’s join Him in this incredible mission and see lives transformed by His Word.

Imagine waiting over 10 years for something special — a long-anticipated gift, a long-awaited holiday or a dream fulfilled. For the Chonyi people in Kilifi, Kenya, that dream came true on Aug. 17, 2024, when they celebrated the arrival of the New Testament in their own language.

The event overflowed with joy: People praised God and released confetti cannons as they celebrated their New Testament. The years that the Chonyi spent praying and persevering as they translated the Scripture made holding God’s Word in their hands even sweeter.

Though the confetti has settled, the Chonyi New Testament will continue impacting the Chonyi people — deepening and renewing their faith — for years to come.

The Journey of the Chonyi Bible Translation

The Chonyi Bible translation began in 2011, when leaders recognized the need for Scripture in the community’s language. By 2015, the team completed the Gospel of Matthew, giving the Chonyi people their first access to God’s Word. Momentum in the community grew when the team launched the “JESUS” film, allowing the Chonyi people to experience Christ’s life through Scripture and visual storytelling.

After years of perseverance, the translators completed the New Testament. In 2024, the Chonyi people celebrated the arrival of the full New Testament in their language — a transformative moment that has already begun to impact lives.

A Celebration of Faith and Joy

The dedication ceremony drew a vibrant crowd, including many of the nearly 200,000 Chonyi speakers. This predominantly Christian community had been eagerly awaiting the New Testament copies, and the event was filled with prayer, praise and joyful celebrations.

A local pastor prayed over the newly printed Bibles, and these Scriptures will play a significant role in the spiritual lives of the Chonyi people. As 2 Timothy 3:16-17 reminds us: “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work” (NLT).

People eagerly lined up to purchase their own copies of the New Testament, excited to finally hold God’s Word in their hands. More than 3,000 copies were printed, and many were sold in the first few days.

The Impact of the New Testament on Women and the Community

The celebration also highlighted the New Testament’s potential to transform the Chonyi community. Eunice Jumbale, a pastor with Redeemed Gospel Church, shared how she believed that Chonyi Scripture would specifically impact women in the community:

“In the past, the women have been involved in some cultural practices that are not good — even those that professed Christianity. But now that the Scripture is in our language, I believe there will be transformation. Women will arise and hold on to God and leave such practices.”

Her words express a broader hope: that the New Testament will deepen people’s faith and help the community align their lives with biblical principles.

Scripture changes us from the inside out: “For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires” (Hebrews 4:12, NLT). As people engage with God’s Word in their own language, they are transformed and leave behind cultural practices that contradict the gospel.

The Chonyi New Testament serves as a tool for spiritual renewal, helping the Chonyi people grow in their walk with God.

All Scripture for All People

Celebrate with us as the Chonyi community experiences the life-changing impact of Scripture in their own language!

God is on the move around the world today. When people receive the Bible in a language that resonates deeply in their heart, their lives transform. Families and communities change too: People experience the hope of the gospel, and relationships strengthen. Praise God that the Chonyi finally have access to the New Testament in their language and that God is already at work in their community!

But the work doesn't stop here — the translation team already has plans to start translating the Old Testament in 2025 so that the Chonyi can have the full counsel of God’s Word in their language.

At Wycliffe, we want every community to be able to experience the transforming power of Scripture in their language, which is what Vision 2025 is all about. This is a God-sized goal: to see a Bible translation program start for every language that still needs it. Vision 2025 ensures no community is left without access to God’s Word.

As more people engage with God’s Word, the vision of Revelation 7:9 — that people from every nation and language will worship together around God’s throne — becomes closer to reality.

Continue the Journey

Thank you for supporting Bible translation. Your partnership — whether through praying, giving, serving or advocating — helps make dedications like the Chonyi New Testament happen. Today people around the world are joining together as the global Church to support God’s work and participate in these incredible stories of transformation.

Please continue to pray for the Chonyi community as they engage with the New Testament and work on the Old Testament translation. Ask God to use His Word to bring continuous hope and renewal to their lives. By being part of the Bible translation movement, you can play a vital role in bringing God’s Word to more communities like the Chonyi.

As the Holy Spirit guides local churches, communities and translators, your prayers, encouragement and sharing stories like these allow people to experience Jesus in their language — transforming their lives and uniting their communities.

From Long Waits to a Vision of Hope: The Story Behind Vision 2025

For over 80 years, Wycliffe and our partner organizations have been working to translate the Bible into languages worldwide. But in 1999, we realized something: If we kept our pace, it would take over 150 years for Bible translation to begin in every remaining language. This timeline was simply unacceptable.

So we prayed for new solutions and guidance, and that’s when Vision 2025 was born — a bold goal to start a translation program in every language that needed one by the end of 2025.

Twenty-five years later, Vision 2025 is moving closer to becoming reality. Wycliffe and our partners have seen unprecedented acceleration in translation work. Less than 1,000 languages are left that need their first Bible translation to begin.

Nigeria’s Story: A Testament to God’s Movement

Let’s look at one place where God is moving powerfully: Nigeria. This West African nation has been historically known for being on the “Big Five” list of critical regions that needed Bible translation to start, along with East Asia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and the global Deaf community.

Just two years ago, Nigeria had approximately 250 languages still waiting for Bible translation. But today, we’ve seen God’s hand at work in Nigeria. It is no longer on the “Big Five” list (and has been replaced with Cameroon as of Oct. 1, 2024), and only a few dozen languages still need translation work to start.

In countries like Nigeria, the story of translation is also a story of unity. As local communities, churches and linguists come together, God’s Word is transforming lives, building up communities and fostering a deep sense of hope and purpose.

A Movement Accelerating Beyond Expectation

Did you know that a new Bible translation begins approximately every 14 hours? This pace is unprecedented in Bible translation history.

To put that into perspective, between May 2019 and May 2021, a new language was engaged approximately every 120 hours, or about once every five days. Then from May 2021 to May 2023, that frequency accelerated to a new language about every 30 hours — just over one day per language. Now with translations beginning every 14 hours, we’re witnessing a pace that seemed unimaginable even a few years ago.

Every step forward reflects not only the incredible work and dedication of people across the globe but also God’s Spirit moving and empowering His people to bring hope through His Word faster than ever before. This rapid progress shows that God’s hand is guiding this mission, creating opportunities for Him to reach more people with the life-changing message of His love and salvation.

The Power of Saying “Yes” to God’s Invitation

Why does Bible translation matter? Imagine what it means for someone to have Scripture in the language they think in, dream in and pray in. When people receive the Bible in their language, hope takes root in their heart and transformation follows. Communities change for the better — fear fades from people’s lives and is replaced by hope. Through these translated Scriptures, individuals find peace, forgiveness and a purpose that transforms them from the inside out.

Each person who supports Bible translation plays a vital role in this incredible movement. Every time someone says “yes” to God’s invitation to support translation, they become part of this work, helping bring God’s Word to those who need it.

We Are the Generation to See the Bible Reaching All Peoples

We are the generation that will witness the Bible reaching every man, woman and child. This is a unique privilege and an extraordinary calling. For the first time in history, we’re on the cusp of making God’s Word available in all languages, including sign languages. This isn’t just a milestone; it’s a movement that echoes into eternity. Through this work, every person, no matter where they live or the language they use, will have the opportunity to understand God’s love and purpose for their lives.

Vision 2025’s focus isn’t on whether we reach every single language by that date. Instead, it’s about witnessing the incredible unity of God’s Church as people come together across cultures, languages and borders to start Bible translation.

Each person who partners with us — whether through praying, serving, giving or advocating — is a vital part of that calling.

Thank You for Helping Us Live in Light of Eternity

None of this would be possible without the faithful “yes” of people like you. Every prayer, gift, and element of support has brought us closer to the vision of seeing God’s Word in every language.

We’re living in light of eternity, knowing that what happens here on earth will resonate in heaven, as evidenced in Revelation 7:9. This work is about honoring God, bringing hope to His people through His Word and creating a legacy of love and transformation.

As we thank God for what He’s done, we also thank Him for each of you too! You’re not just witnesses in this global movement; you help proclaim God’s incredible works to others.

Continue to join us in this mission through prayer, and together we will witness God’s love reaching every language, every nation and every heart.

At Wycliffe, we gather together a few times a year for Scripture Celebrations: We celebrate with language communities around the world that have reached translation milestones and pray for the work still to be done. Karen Vergara, a speaker at our most recent Scripture Celebration, shared a powerful and personal story that illuminates the critical need for Bible translation in sign languages.

This Scripture Celebration’s theme was "The Greatest Story Ever Told" and focused on the significance of the Bible as a transformative story. Karen's heartfelt testimony about her journey as a mother of a Deaf son highlighted the urgency of reaching Deaf communities with God's Word in a language and format that resonate with them.

A Personal Journey of Faith and Healing

Karen shared that she and her husband, Jorge, welcomed their son Felipe into the world in June 2023. What should have been a joyous time turned into a season of sadness and confusion when they learned, just weeks later, that Felipe was born with permanent hearing loss.

"I was devastated," Karen recounted. "What would life be like for Felipe? Will he have friends? Will he be able to go to school? Will he play sports?"

Karen turned to the Bible for comfort and guidance during this season as she wrestled with her questions and specifically resonated with the Book of Job. Through her exploration of Job’s story, Karen found solace in God’s sovereignty and wisdom.

She also turned to the Book of Psalms for comfort, specifically reflecting on Psalm 139:13-14, as she was reminded that God created Felipe with a purpose from the beginning: “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well” (NIV).

This realization transformed her perspective from questioning God’s will to seeking His purpose. Instead of asking, "Why him? Why us?" Karen began to inquire, "What are you trying to do through Felipe, through us, through me?"

A Call to Action

Karen's journey led her to discover a startling statistic: There are over 70 million Deaf individuals worldwide, and only 2% have been introduced to the gospel.

She was surprised to learn that only one sign language Bible translation has been completed to date — the American Sign Language Version (ASLV), which took more than 30 years to accomplish.

"I had never realized that the Deaf needed a visual translation of the Bible," Karen admitted. "For most Deaf individuals, their heart language is sign language, not spoken or written language."

More than 380 known sign languages are in use around the world today, so the urgency became clear to Karen. This epiphany propelled her and Jorge into action. They made it their mission to connect with the Colombian Sign Language translation team.

The couple’s visit to Colombia allowed them to engage directly with Deaf communities and learn about ongoing translation efforts. Karen recalled, "We met with teachers and young leaders involved in ministries that serve the Deaf with the mission of sharing the gospel." The trip profoundly transformed Karen and Jorge’s hearts, igniting their passion for reaching Deaf communities with the message of Jesus.

The Power of God's Word

Karen’s story exemplifies how having the Bible in your language transforms lives. "If it had not been for having a Bible in a language I understood, I would have missed the invitation that God had made to our family to become ambassadors to the Deaf," she shared.

When Karen was concerned and in need of hope, she turned to God’s Word for comfort and guidance. Her initial questions evolved into a commitment to serve with and advocate for the Deaf. Through Scripture, she gained a deeper understanding of her faith and how God was prompting her into action.

Today she understands that God’s purpose was bigger than she initially imagined: "God had to break my heart for the Deaf by giving me a Deaf son."

This personal experience transformed her family into advocates for a group that has historically been marginalized and overlooked.

Vision 2025: A God-Sized Dream

With only one full sign language Bible complete, Deaf communities represent one of the top five priorities for Wycliffe and our partners. And around the world today, God is raising up local churches to take the lead in Bible translation for their own communities, countries and even entire regions, accelerating the pace like never before.

Vision 2025 is a God-sized vision that seeks to ensure that every language still in need of a Bible translation has a project initiated by the end of 2025. This includes the critical work needed for sign language translations.

Karen is a reminder that God has uniquely equipped each of us to play a role in ensuring that every person can access Scripture in their language. At Scripture Celebration, she encouraged the audience:

Bible translation is about more than Scripture access — it’s about changing hearts, lives and communities through the gospel. You’re invited by God to consider how you can participate in this God-sized dream.

Together we can ensure that the greatest story ever told reaches every person’s heart — including those who communicate through sign language — in a way that resonates deeply with them.

When was the last time you saw a miracle or radical answer to prayer in your community? Sometimes we can get so focused on our own local challenges that we lose sight of the bigger picture of what God is doing. But He is on the move even when we don’t see it.

The global Church, made up of believers everywhere, is on mission to proclaim the hope found in Jesus Christ. One way churches are partnering with Bible translation to impact the world is by supporting Scripture translation efforts. American churches are taking ownership of this mission, and it's transforming lives both locally and globally.

Radical Generosity at Taylor Road Baptist Church

Bible translation had a profound impact on Pastor Daniel Atkins’ church, Taylor Road Baptist Church, this year. At the start of the year, the church was facing $250,000 in building debt and discussing ways to pay it off. In April 2024, Pastor Atkins connected with a Wycliffe Bible Translators staff member who proposed that Taylor Road not only support a pastors' conference but give to Bible translation efforts directly.

Asking the church to rise to the financial challenge of giving above and beyond felt like a daunting task.

So the church leaders prayed about the idea. They knew that for $35 per verse, the church could help translate the Book of Romans for a community that had never had God’s Word. They just had to decide who to support.

The leaders received a list of languages needing Romans and had to choose one. They ended up choosing a group at random — a language group in Asia called the I* language — to support as a church community.

Their choice might have been random, but God’s plan is sovereign. God did miraculous things through the generosity of Taylor Road. Church leaders shared the heart of and vision for Bible translation with their community, and God showed up. Referencing Matthew 6:33 (NLT) — “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need” — Pastor Atkins said:

And God did something incredible!

Unexpected Connections Across the Globe

United in the vision to see God’s Word made available in a language and format that resonated with the I people, Taylor Road gave above and beyond what was originally planned. Within a few weeks, Taylor Road celebrated God’s provision: They announced that the church was debt-free and had also funded the translation of Romans in the I language!

Five weeks later, Auburn University resumed classes in the area — and a significant number of college students began attending Taylor Road services. The following Sunday, eight new students even joined the church. Pastor Atkins asked some of the students if they were familiar with the I people group, and they were! These students confirmed that the group needed the gospel in their language and prayer.

While Taylor Road chose this language group randomly, God knew the connections that would be orchestrated within their own community.

During a prayer meeting, a young man from the school shared his own connection to the people group. Together, they prayed against persecution and that the Holy Spirit would work within the I community. The church’s prayers mattered to the community — both overseas and right in their backyard.

Church Partnership Changes Everything

Reflecting on God’s timing, Pastor Atkins said, “When you begin to partner [with] the Great Commission cause of taking the gospel to the nations, you don’t know what God is going to do to bring the nations to you.”

His church’s story reiterates that millions of people around the world still don’t have a Bible in a language they can clearly understand. As the global Church, we have the opportunity to come alongside them.

How Your Church Can Get Involved in Bible Translation

How does your church participate in missions locally and globally? Perhaps your church supports several missionaries or organizations working both in your city and around the world. God is using churches like yours to advance the gospel, equipping the global Church for evangelism, discipleship and church planting.

But there’s more your church can do to be part of this mission:

• Sponsor a Bible translation project: For as little as $35 per verse, your congregation can directly support translating Scripture for a people group without access to the Bible.
• Pray for people groups who don’t yet have the gospel: Join a prayer group to intercede for people waiting to meet Jesus in their own language.
• Educate your church about Bible translation: Hosting events or Bible studies to discuss evangelism and discipleship can deepen your church’s understanding of God’s global mission.

Embracing the Call

The story of Taylor Road Baptist Church reminds us that partnering in Bible translation can have a profound impact on people — both in your community and thousands of miles away. Being part of the work of Bible translation provides us with an opportunity to shift our perspective, participate in fulfilling the Great Commission and build connections we could have never anticipated.

Whether you’re part of a small congregation or a large church, God can use your generosity and service to transform lives, both locally and globally. So how will you and your church say yes to the call?

*Name changed.

On Feb. 17, 2024, the Kaluli community in Papua New Guinea celebrated the historic dedication of the New Testament in their language. The ceremony was planned by the Kaluli church, and this milestone marks the result of nearly 40 years of hard work!

The Journey of the Kaluli Bible Translation: Church-Led Excitement

A Kaluli church was established around 1985, but they didn’t have access to any Scripture in their language yet. The church was eager for God’s Word, so they appointed two translators who started work with a notebook and a pencil. The translators eventually reached out to SIL, a strategic partner, to ask for help translating their Scripture. Missionaries joined the work in Papua New Guinea in 1991, but ever since that time, the Kaluli church has continued to appoint local translators to join the Bible translation efforts.

Like all Bible translation projects, translating the New Testament into Kaluli involved many people working in different roles. Missionaries, translators, local proofreaders, typesetters and others helped create print and oral formats of Scripture. The Kaluli church-appointed translators from 1985 still work as part of the project today, and everyone else who has been appointed by the church is also a part of the translation team.

Bible translation work, especially work that takes place over the course of many years, often faces challenges — ranging from team member illnesses to environmental obstacles to financial struggles and more. But overcoming these difficulties is worth it, as Bible translation allows people to engage with God’s Word in a language and format that they understand — essential for evangelism, discipleship and church growth in remote communities like the Kaluli.

Praise God: The translators persisted and got the chance to experience the joy of dedicating their New Testament!

Kaluli New Testament Dedication Ceremony in Papua New Guinea

A few days before the ceremony itself, boxes of the Kaluli Scriptures were flown into the area. The Kaluli people eagerly awaited the arrival of the New Testaments.

On the day of the dedication, the translators unloaded the boxes and prayed over them. Nearly 2,000 people from villages across the region made the long trek to the celebration site, with some people hiking for days in order to attend. They all gathered to witness the culmination of years of hard work, prayer and God’s faithfulness to the Kaluli.

The Kaluli translation team, national and regional church leaders, international guests and the community formed a sacred procession that would lead them into the heart of the village. The men on the translation team walked up the hill in the procession, carrying boxes of unopened Scriptures with them. When they arrived at the top of the hill, there was a palm archway with a palm “ribbon” that would be cut before everyone entered.

A pastor read Scripture and prayed in a loud voice, then he cut the palm ribbon. At that point, the translation team handed over the boxes of the Bibles to the waiting Kaluli pastors, symbolically “passing the torch” and putting God’s Word into Kaluli in their care.

At the celebration, numerous team members shared their testimonies. Then, when the Kaluli Scriptures were revealed to the community for the first time, people cheered, clapped, shouted with joy and spontaneously danced!

The crowd worshipped together, praising God with their voices lifting to the heavens in celebration of His goodness.

Throughout the day, participants experienced moments of deep meaning. Speakers and attendees shared heartfelt testimonies and joined together in worship, illustrating the impact of the Scriptures on those who had already begun to read them. Organizers honored the translation team with awards, honoring their tireless work and unwavering commitment. The national church leader delivered a message that emphasized the importance of Scripture in the life of the church and community.

Receiving God’s Word

As the ceremony drew to a close, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived — copies of the New Testament were distributed. People lined up, their faces shining with anticipation. Along with their New Testaments, they received solar-powered audio Bibles, reading glasses and SD cards containing Kaluli audio and video Scriptures. The stock of audio players sold out quickly, and the team took orders for 200 more!

This dedication marked the beginning of a new chapter in this community’s spiritual journey. For the first time, Kaluli men, women and children can understand God’s Word in the language that touches their hearts.

A Divine Promise

As the day came to a close, there was one final blessing — a stunning rainbow appeared. The left end touched the grandstand where the Kaluli New Testaments were dedicated. For those present, it felt like God’s divine seal on the entire celebration. It was a vivid reminder of His faithful promises and the treasure of His Word. The rainbow served as a beautiful conclusion to a day filled with God’s love and faithfulness.

The dedication of the Kaluli New Testament was more than just a ceremony; it was a day of celebration, unity and profound spiritual significance.

Praise God for His enduring love and for the joy of seeing His Word come alive in the hearts of the Kaluli people!

A New Chapter Begins

The dedication of the Kaluli New Testament is just the beginning. While they now have access to the New Testament, they — and other communities like them around the world — still need the full counsel of God’s Word, including the Old Testament in a language format that they can clearly understand.

The Bible brings hope, unity and transformation. In communities like the Kaluli, where access to God’s Word has been limited, receiving Scripture allows people to deepen their faith while understanding important biblical truths that can transform and unify their entire community. As the Kaluli people access God’s Word, their lives and communities will be changed, touched by God’s truth and promises.

Revelation 7:9 reflects this global vision: “After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white robes and held palm branches in their hands” (NLT).

Many communities around the world are still waiting to receive even a portion of the Bible in their language. The heart of Vision 2025 is to see a Bible translation project started in every language that still needs one. There’s still more to be done, and you can be part of the movement that brings hope and transformation to these communities.

Continue the Journey

Join the ongoing story of Bible translation by praying and supporting work that transforms lives. The Kaluli now have the New Testament, but the journey isn’t over. Pray that the church would continue to grow in their community and that Scripture will impact people’s lives.

Want to learn more about how you can partner with people groups like the Kaluli? Check out how you can pray for the Northeast Cluster project in Papua New Guinea.

If you’re looking for creative ways you can help bring God’s Word to more communities, check out our blog, “4 Ways to Get Involved in Bible Translation.”

God is at work around the world today, and it’s a privilege to get a front-row seat to how He is transforming lives through His Word!

Lindsay Olesberg, Wycliffe USA’s board chair, attended the dedication and shared her reflections on the Isnag Bible dedication. She witnessed firsthand the power of Bible translation and how God’s Word is transforming lives in the Isnag community.

The Journey to the Full Isnag Bible

In the 1950s, Wycliffe missionary Dick Roe began translating Scripture into the Isnag language. Over the next few decades, many people contributed to this mission through hard work and prayer. On June 25, 2023, after more than 60 years of translation, their efforts culminated in the dedication of the full Bible. The Isnag people now have the entire counsel of God’s Word in their language — something that will guide their faith for generations.

Learn more about the history of the Isnag Bible translation.

Worshipping in Their Own Language

One of the most moving parts of the ceremony for Lindsay was worshipping alongside the Isnag people. Even though she didn’t understand the words, she was able to sing along because the lyrics were projected on the screen. The experience of praising God together made her feel deeply connected to the Isnag community.

“I didn’t know what I was singing,” Lindsay shared, “but I knew that we were all praising God. And it’s very powerful for me — almost kind of teary.”

The Impact of Well-Worn Bibles

As part of the dedication, the Isnag people were able to exchange their well-worn New Testaments for the new, complete Bibles. These New Testaments, filled with notes and underlined verses, represented people deeply engaging with Scripture for years. Lindsay picked up one of these New Testaments and saw something that deeply moved her: The owner had written their “spiritual birthday” inside, along with their name and favorite verses.

“There’s a real person on the other side of this Bible,” Lindsay reflected, emphasizing how much the Isnag people had connected with God’s Word.

For more stories of how God’s Word has been transforming lives in the Isnag community, read “God Is on the Move: The Journey to the Isnag Bible.”

Transformation Through God’s Word

The completion of the Isnag Bible is already making a huge impact in the community. Many Isnag people had waited their entire lives for this moment to happen. Their excitement and joy as they received the full Bible was clear, and now both older generations and young people will be able to experience the full counsel of God’s Word.

Lindsay shared how she saw “the eagerness [and] the joy that the Word of God is in their language.”

The Mission Continues

Now that the Isnag people have the full Bible, the mission continues. The Isnag believers are working to distribute the Bibles; they are eager to share the Good News with people to ensure that everyone in the community can understand God’s Word.

The Isnag Bible dedication showcases how God’s Word brings hope and lasting transformation to entire communities. As Lindsay reflected on her experience witnessing the Isnag people worship and receive the complete Bible in their language, it became clear to her that this was more than just a celebration: It was a powerful moment demonstrating God’s faithfulness at work.

We are incredibly grateful for everyone who has prayed for, partnered with and given to this mission of Bible translation. Your faithfulness has made it possible for communities like the Isnag to have Scripture in their own language. The lives that are currently being transformed through God’s Word are evidence of your impact. Thank you!

But the work isn’t finished. There are still many people around the world waiting for the Bible in a language that touches their heart. We invite you to join us in this life-changing mission. Whether through prayer, financial support or partnership, you can be part of what God is doing through Bible translation — bringing the hope and truth of His Word in every language and every nation.

Wycliffe and our global partners are catalysts in the Bible translation movement, helping to bring God’s Word to people in the languages and formats they clearly understand. Today the global Church is taking the translation lead in many communities, including in the Kwi Cluster of Togo. You can support Bible translation in this three-language cluster project during this year’s Giving Tuesday, which takes place on Dec. 3.

The Kwi Cluster is made up of the Idaaca, Kpeci and Woatsi communities; together they represent nearly 1 million people who are still waiting for the full counsel of God’s Word.

A Day at the Salon

One story from the Woatsi community captures God’s life-changing activity in this community. A translation team visited a local hair salon and, despite the location, the staff weren’t there for haircuts or relaxation. They were there to share some of their translation work — an audio recording of the Parable of the Prodigal Son in their own language.

As the salon workers listened to Jesus’ teaching on God’s love and offer of redemption, they were stunned by how different the message felt in Woatsi. After playing the audio clip, the team members asked the listeners some questions about the passage’s accuracy, clarity and naturalness. This prompted heartfelt discussions on the gospel message, which resulted in the group members each sharing their perspectives on Christ.

Some hairdressers became so passionate about worshipping the Lord that they joined a church! They said:

“It’s a joy for us to learn the Bible stories in Woatsi. They touch us deeply and lead us to give our lives to Christ.”

The women continued: “We’ve already heard this story in French, Ewe and many other [languages], but it had no effect on us. Thank you for this initiative; we are proud that the Word of God is available to us in our language.”

Many in the community have echoed these sentiments as the team shares more translated passages. The staff are encouraged by this and are eager to see more stories of transformation as they complete the Gospel of Luke for their people.

Future Impact

This experience is not unique: The translation teams in the Kwi Cluster have witnessed more lives change as people encounter the gospel in their language. Churches are growing, and the hunger for God’s Word is intensifying.

To accomplish this, the Kwi Cluster has ambitious goals for the next three years, including completing the oral translations of the Gospels of Mark and John, the Book of Acts, Philippians, 1-2 Timothy and 1-3 John.

Additionally, the project will provide written transcriptions of these oral translations, set up Scripture listening groups and produce the “JESUS” film. These initiatives are designed to address the social issues that the three communities are facing.

Your support is vital to the success of this project. On this year’s Giving Tuesday, you have the opportunity to join in God’s transformative work in Togo by helping bring more Scripture to people in the Kwi Cluster. Your partnership will help lives change through the power of God’s Word.

Meet Jared! He has been serving with Wycliffe since 2021. Since the beginning of his journey at Wycliffe, Jared has been supported through challenges.

A Supportive Team

At Wycliffe we partner with our staff as they participate in God’s mission. We help make sure that each person is ready and equipped to engage in what God is doing. With a holistic approach to comprehensive benefits, we are committed to enabling all of our staff to flourish as they use their God-given talents and abilities to support the ministry of Bible translation.

Shortly after starting his role at Wycliffe, Jared turned to his managers and team for support when his wife experienced prolonged serious health concerns. Whether he needed to take sick leave to attend doctor’s appointments with her, take time off or work remotely instead of in the office, he had the flexibility to maintain a healthy work-life balance and provide care for his wife.

The care and flexibility Jared experienced allowed him to care for his family when they needed him to be more present. He said, “I'm really grateful for the flexibility that they provided.”

Global and Transformative Impact

God is using His global Church to make Scripture available so that every man, woman and child can encounter Jesus personally and understand His love in a way that transforms their lives forever. This is why Bible translation matters: Because everyone deserves to know and understand God’s great love for them personally.

As Jared lives out his faith, he offers his unique gifts, background and experience to God. Jared has found that working at Wycliffe offers him the chance to make an impact and be part of an eternal mission.

The global Church is taking ownership of Bible translation as they translate Scripture for their own communities. Around the world, partners have embraced Vision 2025 — to see a Bible translation program in progress for every language that needs it by the year 2025 — for themselves. Local churches and partner organizations are actively developing strategies to start Bible translation for the last remaining languages that need it. Countries are achieving Vision 2025 at an unprecedented rate, with no signs of slowing down!

Seeing God move in communities around the world motivates and inspires Jared in his work.

But starting Bible translation is only the first step; work still needs to continue so that the ongoing translation needs in each community are met. As we join with people and communities around the world in this movement, we trust God to continue His work among the nations through Bible translation. God’s translated Word is transforming individuals, families and entire communities — both now and for generations to come.

We are humbled to play a role in this incredible work and are excited to see what God does next!

Ready to Do Your Part?

God invites us all, as members of the global body of Christ, to participate in His mission. When you serve in Bible translation, you’ll join in what God is doing around the world as we work toward our promised future in Revelation 7:9a: “After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb” (NLT).

So how is God inviting you to be a part of making His name known among the nations?M/p>

What are you truly grateful for? If you’re like many of us, it’s easy to go to the big things: good health, a job, family and friends.

But what about the smaller blessings that we can so easily take for granted? Blessings like a breeze that cools you on your run, the smell of freshly cut grass, the pleasure of sitting down in a comfy seat, or the laughter you share with someone you love. It can be easy to get caught up in the busyness of life and lose sight of the opportunities all around us for gratitude.

In 1897, Johnson Oatman Jr. wrote the lyrics to a hymn called “Count Your Blessings”:

• Count your blessings, name them one by one;
• Count your blessings, see what God hath done;
• Count your blessings, name them one by one,
• And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

This song’s request might seem easy, but have you actually tried to count your blessings, naming them one by one? It requires a level of concentration and specificity, yet it opens our eyes to see the thousand ways God blesses us each and every day.

God Sightings Among the Nations: Counting Our Blessings, One By One

Psalm 103:1-2 says, “Let all that I am praise the Lᴏʀᴅ; with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name. Let all that I am praise the Lᴏʀᴅ; may I never forget the good things he does for me” (NLT).

In the spirit of this, we want to take a minute to name just a few of the blessings we’ve experienced recently! At Wycliffe, we call this practice “God Sightings,” and it’s the act of intentionally stopping to acknowledge: “God, we see how You showed up in that situation or circumstance. Thank you!”

• In January 2024, Wycliffe’s President/CEO John Chesnut and a team had the opportunity to visit Nigeria and Madagascar to see firsthand how God is raising up local churches to take ownership of Bible translation for their communities and countries. Nigeria has historically been a country with some of the highest Bible translation needs in the world. In 2022, there were still more than 250 languages that needed Bible translation to start for the first time. Now there are only a few dozen, and this is all because God is uniting His Church to work together in pursuit of a day when all people can worship Him in their own languages!
• In February 2024, the Kaluli people of Papua New Guinea dedicated their New Testament! A stunning rainbow appeared in the sky at the end of the day, which felt like God’s seal on the beautiful service during which His Word was presented to the Kaluli people. One end of the rainbow ended at the grandstand where the Kaluli Scriptures were being dedicated — a lovely reminder of God’s faithful, enduring promises to His people and the treasure we have in His Word.

  

• In March 2024, the Sukacita Cluster project in Indonesia was approved to launch. Sukacita is the Bahasa Indonesian word for "joy." This translation project seeks to bring the joy of the Lord to 30 people groups by mobilizing local churches and communities to participate in translating the entire New Testament into all 30 languages over the next four years! This accelerated pace will only be possible because of local church ownership and involvement, and we are excited to see how God moves in these communities!
• In April 2024, we celebrated that there were just 1,216 “Vision 2025” languages waiting for Bible translation to start for the first time. And 83 countries had achieved Vision 2025!
• In May 2024, we launched new prayer opportunities to invite people to participate in Bible translation through prayer. Journey 7:9 invites you on a journey to prayerfully imagine people from every nation worshipping before the throne, just as we see described in Revelation 7:9. Since then, we’ve seen more than 4,000 people sign up for Journey 7:9, and our hope is that they will continue to partner with us through praying for the day when every man, woman and child is able to worship Jesus in their language. (If you’re one of those 4,000 people, thank you for joining us on this journey! And if you haven’t yet decided on a next step with Wycliffe, we encourage you to check it out.)
• In June 2024, we celebrated alongside our Deaf brothers and sisters who, for the first time in history, had the unique opportunity to experience the story of Jesus presented as a feature film entirely in American Sign Language. “JESUS: A Deaf Missions film” was produced for the Deaf by the Deaf, with a cast fluent in American Sign Language.
• In July 2024, the Sihanaka Bible was dedicated in Madagascar! This project was owned by local churches who saw the need for Scripture in their language so that their people could experience God personally in their own language. Olivia Razafinjatoniary, a translation consultant with SIL South Africa, shared, “Bible translation in the local language gives people the dignity and the honor that they deserve. They feel like they own it, that God didn’t leave them alone. That they are not obliged to learn the official language as God can speak their language, and God can communicate directly with them in their own language. To them, even if the Bible that has been printed is still in a draft version, to them it is precious. It’s their wealth, their treasure. And it’s so precious to them.”
• In August 2024, three projects were approved to launch Bible translation in 40 languages across Ghana, Nigeria, South Sudan and Gabon. As a result of these projects, there will be zero people groups in Ghana, South Sudan and Gabon without Scripture in their language! And the number of remaining needs in Nigeria continues to decrease. Join us in praying for the teams involved and the anticipated impact on these 40 communities!
• In September 2024, we hosted our Fall Scripture Celebration to rejoice with communities around the world who have received Scripture in their own language.
• In October 2024, we reached the incredible milestone of having fewer than 1,000 Vision 2025 languages remaining! Officially, just 980 are awaiting the start of Bible translation. We praise God for this! Through a global lens, there are now 105 countries that have achieved Vision 2025, with another 81 that have only one language needing to start translation. We are excited to see this momentum continue; today, on average, a new Bible translation starts every 14 hours — a significant decrease from the average of 120 hours it took just three years ago!

  

Which leads us to now: November 2024. As we wrap up the year, these highlights provide a mere glimpse of the ways we’ve seen God show up and move. We praise God for all that He has done, and may we never forget to stop and intentionally count our blessings!

The Blessing of Partnership

As we count our blessings, we can’t forget to include you! We want to thank you for the role you play in seeing God’s name made known among the nations in the languages and formats that people not only clearly understand but that capture their hearts and transform their lives forever.

• If you partner with us in prayer, thank you for praying! We firmly believe that God answers prayers, and we are so grateful that you’ve linked arms with us to both praise God for what He has already done and faithfully pray with anticipation for what He will continue to do.
• If you partner with us through giving, thank you for your generosity. As believers, we have the joy and privilege of partnering with God and seeing lives transformed when people encounter Him through Scripture in their own language. We are blessed to be a blessing — and we pray that you experience incredible joy through Spirit-led giving.
• If you advocate for Bible translation and invite others — whether in your community or in your church — to participate in this work, thank you! God has called His people to make disciples of all nations, and there is a feeling of belonging when we unite to accomplish His purposes.
• And if you have dedicated your life to serving — whether as a staff person or volunteer — we are so grateful for your commitment to this Kingdom work. May we never lose sight of the blessing it is to be able to serve as Jesus’ hands and feet in the different settings He’s placed us.

There is so much to thank God for! What would you add to the list?

A Divine Invitation to Participate in God’s Mission

Olivia Razafinjatoniary, a translation consultant with SIL South Africa, embodies the joy that comes from being a part of God's global mission. “I love Bible translation, and obviously, I cannot hide that,” she said with infectious enthusiasm. Her passion is not just about translating words — it's about watching God work through the global Church, using His people to bring His message to every people and nation.

By translating the Bible into local languages, communities like the Sihanaka are recognizing that God didn’t leave them out of His plan. Olivia explained:

This sense of personal connection with Scripture is life-changing. God is using His Church to transform lives, and Olivia's story is a reflection of how exciting it is to be part of this God-sized movement.

The Global Church Takes Ownership

There are at least 12 languages represented in Madagascar, and local churches have long felt the burden to see the Bible translated into each of them. Pastor Njato Rakotobe challenged his congregation with a question that pierced their hearts:

This sparked a renewed urgency for Bible translation as the church realized they had a responsibility to lead the work for their communities.

Dr. John Chesnut, president and CEO of Wycliffe USA, witnessed the incredible work of a church in Madagascar. “This church … said, ‘We want in on this. We want to see, as part of our church, these evangelistic outreaches into other areas of Madagascar.’”

This particular church’s heart for evangelism led them to translate four full Bibles in just four years — an unprecedented achievement that was possible only through their willingness to say “yes” to God's invitation.

The global Church is expanding as people encounter Jesus through Scripture in a language they clearly understand. The Sihanaka people, like so many others around the world, crave the Word of God in their own language just like they crave food. When they receive it, their lives are transformed.

As Pastor Njato recalled, “People, they are hungry — hungry for the Word of God when it is in their own language. They feel like receiving good food. And they say, ‘Wow, that is for us, and God speaks in our own language.’”

The Sihanaka Bible: A Milestone of Transformation

On July 14, 2024, the Sihanaka Bible was dedicated. This momentous occasion was a celebration of God’s faithfulness, and it was a powerful demonstration of how people’s lives are transformed when they encounter Jesus through Scripture in a language they understand.

Razafinjaka, a translator for the Sihanaka Bible, shared how the process of Bible translation “wakes up the real language” and opens doors for evangelism. She said:

The dedication of the Sihanaka Bible represents more than just a completed project — it is a testament to God’s mission moving forward. As communities receive the Bible in their own language, they experience God’s Word in a new way that connects with them on a deeply personal level.

God Is on the Move: A Vision for the Future

The dedication of the Sihanaka Bible marks the beginning of even greater work ahead: The church in Madagascar is launching eight new translation projects, engaging with more communities to bring God’s Word to them. This global movement is only possible through the collaboration of churches, organizations and communities.

Serge Razafinjatoniary, associate area director for SIL Anglo-Lusophone Africa, emphasized the significance of these various churches and organizations working together: “Partnership is not ‘plan B,’ partnership is ‘plan A.’”

This spirit of collaboration is driving the Bible translation movement forward.

Partnership and Innovation: A New Way of Working

As Bible translation efforts grow, Wycliffe and our partners are continually innovating to engage more people in this mission. Bible translation is not just about completing a task — it’s about making sure that people can encounter God and His Word in ways that transform their lives forever. Working together in humility and unity, churches and communities are accomplishing far more than any one group could achieve alone.

Churches in Madagascar are living out this God-sized vision. Through training local consultants, engaging students and partnering with organizations like Wycliffe and SIL Global (a strategic partner), they are ensuring the work of Bible translation continues for generations to come, allowing all people to experience the fullness of God within their own culture.

The Transforming Power of God’s Word

The Bible has the power to transform individual lives, families and entire communities — both here on earth and for eternity. Fear turns to hope, relationships are reconciled and communities are changed from the inside out. For the Sihanaka people, having God’s Word in their own language is like receiving spiritual nourishment — a meal that satisfies the deepest hunger for truth and meaning.

An Invitation to Join God’s Mission

God is using His global Church to impact the world in ways we’ve never seen before. Bible translation is just one part of this larger story, and it is a privilege to participate in it. As more people encounter Jesus through Scripture in their own language, the global Church continues to grow and expand at an unprecedented rate.

At Wycliffe, we’re humbled to be part of this God-sized movement. By working in partnership with churches and communities around the world, we’re witnessing the incredible ways that God is using Bible translation to bring hope, transformation and eternal life to people everywhere.

You’re part of this journey with us. Thank you for participating in this global mission! Your prayers, advocacy, giving and service are making a life-changing impact — bringing the light of God’s Word to those who’ve never had it before. (And if you’re learning about Bible translation work for the first time, we invite you to join us in this incredible journey!)

Together let’s see how God continues to transform lives in ways beyond what we could ever have asked or imagined.

When Jesus entrusted His followers with the Great Commission, He prompted them to not keep the hope to themselves; they were instructed to share it with others. “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20, NLT).

So what does Jesus mean when He says “all nations”? The answer is quite simple: the whole world! God’s people should be composed of individuals from all languages and people groups. “For this is how God loved the world: He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16, NLT).

To make true disciples of all nations, the gospel must be understood deeply, resonating with people’s hearts and minds. This is where contextualization comes into play.

Contextualization: A Biblical Approach

“Contextualization” has a variety of definitions. In a Wycliffe context, we’re referring to the idea of presenting the gospel in a way that resonates with specific cultural and linguistic contexts without changing its core message.

The Bible itself demonstrates the importance of understanding an audience and allowing the message to reach people’s hearts with their cultural contexts. For example, the four Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John were written by different authors for specific audiences:

• Matthew wrote to Jewish Christians, emphasizing Jesus as the Messiah prophesied in Hebrew Scriptures.
• Mark targeted Roman Gentiles, focusing on Jesus’ actions and servanthood and clarifying Jewish customs unfamiliar to a Roman audience.
• Luke addressed Greek and Hellenistic readers, presenting Jesus as the Son of Man and Savior of all people.
• John wrote for a broad audience of both Jews and Gentiles, highlighting the universal nature of Christ’s mission.

Each author tailored the message to their audience’s cultural context in order for the message of who Jesus is to reach their hearts. Read together, these books of the Bible offer readers greater insight into the heart of God.

The apostle Paul was a master of contextualization. In Athens, he observed the city’s idols and used them as a way to introduce the concept of the one true God to listeners (Acts 17:22-23). Paul’s approach didn’t dilute the gospel, but made it accessible and relevant.

He also quoted Greek poets to connect with his audience’s existing beliefs. Have you ever heard a preacher use cultural references in a sermon in order to better reach the audience? How did it help you understand biblical principles and lessons?

The Power of Language in Contextualization

Language is a key component of contextualization. It carries cultural nuances, idioms and expressions that can either clarify or obscure meaning. Translating the Bible into someone’s language ensures they can fully grasp its teachings.

Think about the way that the Bible uses idioms and analogies. For example, the Bible uses the phrase “bear fruit” (Colossians 1:6) to help readers understand how the Holy Spirit transforms people’s hearts and lives.

But in another culture, this phrase might be confusing if it is translated literally without taking into account cultural nuances.

Similarly, as a Christian you probably have heard the phrase “accept Jesus into your heart” in church. That’s because in our cultural context in the U.S., we talk about the heart as the place where we feel love or emotion. In a lot of ways, we think of the heart as the center of our feelings and being. But did you know that the Awa people of Papua New Guinea think of the liver as their center? Or that the Rawa people, also from Papua New Guinea, think of the stomach as their center?

Effective Bible translation considers word choice nuances in order to convey the intended meaning accurately.

The importance of word choice in Bible translation was very apparent to Bible translators working with the of Tzeltal people in Mexico. They have 26 different ways to say “to carry.” For instance, q’uech means “to carry on” your shoulder while pinch’ means “to carry by scruff of neck.”

So when translating Matthew 3:11b and Luke 14:27, they had to prayerfully take into account the culture’s various words in order to develop the most accurate translation according to meaning and connotations.

Bible Translation Today: Continuing the Tradition

Modern Bible translation efforts continue this biblical tradition of contextualization. Translators work diligently to ensure that Scripture resonates powerfully with the audience’s cultural or geographical context.

Think about what it would be like to grow up in a part of the world that is an arid desert. You’ve spent your entire life experiencing little to no rain. Now imagine you’re reading Isaiah 1:18b in your language: “… ‘Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow.’ …” (NLT).

You’d likely be confused by the word “snow” in that verse if you grew up with no context for that type of weather. Similarly, in some cultures, sheep and shepherds are unfamiliar concepts. In these cases, translators might use locally understood analogies to convey the same truths. The goal is always clarity and faithfulness to the original message within someone’s context.

Visual Translations for Deaf Communities

Context is also important when it comes to the format that Scripture is in. While you might assume everyone connects deeply with Scripture in a written format, that’s not necessarily true. In fact, around the world today, many Deaf people struggle to understand the gospel because it’s only in a written format. Sign language is a visual language, different from any spoken language. A visual Bible looks different from printed Scripture. Typically, a sign language Bible video is developed by recording a Deaf translator’s face, hands, body movements and expressions — all part of natural sign language. This then brings the gospel to life!

God desires to communicate His love for His people in the language that best captures their hearts, and for Deaf communities around the world, that requires Scripture that is presented naturally, clearly and visually.

In Honduras, for example, there are up to 70,000 Deaf who use Honduran Sign Language to communicate. In 2022, a qualified team of Deaf Hondurans started translating Scripture into Honduran Sign Language. They began with Genesis 1-8 and Luke 1-3. This complex project is helping Deaf individuals grasp the truth of God’s Word in a way that touches their hearts.

By ensuring that a Bible translation considers their specific sign language and cultural context, the Honduran Sign Language community is better equipped to receive and share the gospel. God is already using sign language Scripture to transform the lives of Deaf Hondurans.

Valuing Cultural Diversity in Evangelism

When we recognize and respect different cultures, we reflect Christ’s love more authentically. The early Church set this example. Paul, in his missionary journeys, adapted his approach to connect with various cultures without compromising the gospel’s truth.

In 1 Corinthians 9:22b, Paul said, “Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some” (NLT). This approach acknowledges that while the message remains the same, the method of delivery can vary to effectively reach different audiences.

As globalization continues to bring cultures closer together, the global Church has a unique opportunity to model unity in diversity. The gospel transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, while honoring the uniqueness of each culture it touches.

This unity is key to fulfilling the Great Commission.

Challenges and Considerations

Contextualizing the gospel through Bible translation presents several challenges that require sensitivity, cultural awareness and adherence to biblical truth. Translators and missionaries must carefully navigate:

• Avoiding Syncretism: While contextualization seeks to make the gospel culturally relevant, it’s vital to guard against blending biblical truths with local beliefs in ways that distort the message. As Galatians 1:8 warns, “Let God’s curse fall on anyone … who preaches a different kind of Good News than the one we preached to you” (NLT). Maintaining the truth of God’s Word is essential.
• Preserving Biblical Integrity: Adapting Scripture to different cultures should never compromise its core doctrines. Translators strive to ensure that key truths — like salvation through Christ alone — are communicated accurately, no matter the cultural context. As John 14:6 reminds us: “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me” (NLT).
• Engaging Local Communities: Translators work closely with people in the local community to produce translations that resonate deeply with those who will receive it. Often, Bible translations go through a phase called “community testing,” where translated passages of Scripture are presented to the local community for their feedback to assure a text’s naturalness and clarity. This collaboration ensures the translation is both linguistically accurate and culturally relevant.

The Impact of Contextualized Scripture

When people receive the Bible in a language and format that touches their heart and resonates with their cultural context, the transformative power of God’s Word is magnified. It helps provide:

• Deeper Understanding: When complex theological concepts are translated into culturally familiar ways, they become more accessible. As Paul teaches in 1 Corinthians 14:9, “If you speak to people in words they don’t understand, how will they know what you are saying?” (NLT) Contextualized Scripture breaks down these barriers, making the hope found in Jesus clearer.
• Personal Connection: When the Bible directly impacts people’s hearts, they feel a personal connection with God. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path” (NLT), reminding us of the Bible’s power to guide and comfort when it is fully understood.
• Cultural Relevance: Contextualized Scripture addresses local issues, questions and challenges, showing how God’s Word applies to everyday life. Following Christ challenges us to engage with cultures in mindful ways. The Bible is full of wisdom and truth that transcends cultural differences.

Your Role in Contextualization

As part of the global Church, every believer has a role in ensuring people worldwide can access Scripture in their language, but God is the one who works through us. As you contribute to this global movement, you can trust that God will empower you.

We can pray for Bible translators, missionaries and the communities receiving God’s Word, asking for wisdom, perseverance and protection, as 1 Thessalonians 5:17 says: “Never stop praying” (NLT).

We can give financially to support translation projects and collaboration. Our generosity, guided by God, helps bring the Bible to those still waiting. Proverbs 3:9 a encourages us to “honor the Lord with [our] wealth …” (NLT).

We can engage with our church communities. As members of the body of Christ, wherever God has planted us, we are equipped to use our unique skills and resources for His Kingdom: "God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us” (1 Corinthians 12:6, NLT).

We can advocate for Bible translation by raising awareness in your church and community, knowing that God uses your efforts to spread His Word. As Romans 10:15 reminds us, “… How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!” (NLT)

Living Out the Heart of the Gospel

Bible translation is at the heart of fulfilling the Great Commission. By ensuring that Scripture is clear, relevant and accessible to every nation and culture, we help make disciples of all nations. This aligns with the apostles’ model of sharing the gospel across linguistic and cultural boundaries while staying true to the message of salvation.

Our mission also reflects the promised future described in Revelation 7:9a: “I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb” (NLT). This vision reminds us that God’s Kingdom will include people from every culture and language. By supporting Bible translation efforts around the world, we actively participate in making this vision a reality, helping people everywhere experience the hope of the gospel.

As Jesus assured in Matthew 28:20, “I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (NLT). This promise gives you the strength to live out the Great Commission — whether through prayer, financial support, advocacy, engaging your church or joining the team — knowing that God is working through all of us.

Read more about how Bible translation is fulfilling the Great Commission in “Pentecost and the Gospel’s Power to Transcend Language and Culture” and “Making Disciples as the Global Church”.

Imagine being in church, surrounded by people who are listening to the Word of God being read aloud — but for you, the words are silent. There are Bibles in the pews, but the written words don’t connect with your heart and you struggle to understand their meaning.

That’s what life is like for 70 million Deaf people across the globe who are waiting for God’s Word in a format they clearly understand: video. Today more than 380 different sign languages are in use, yet only one sign language, American Sign Language (ASL), has a complete Bible.

As you explore the stories of those waiting for and working in sign language Bible translation, you’ll begin to understand the transforming power of God’s Word when it’s in a language and format that deeply connects with you.

It’s More Than Just a Language: It’s a Lifeline

For someone like Pastraporn Sarakong, growing up Deaf meant being surrounded by spoken words that she couldn’t grasp. Her early years were spent in a hearing school in Thailand where she tried to read and write like her hearing peers, but it felt like trying to unlock a door without a key. “I didn’t understand what was going on,” she recalled.

It wasn’t until she learned Thai Sign Language that she could finally communicate with others fully and deeply. Today Pastraporn leads a team translating Bible stories into Thai Sign Language, determined that others won’t have to struggle like she did to connect with the Word of God.

Deaf Translators: The Heart of the Mission

The work of translating the Bible into sign language is challenging. But it’s also work that is filled with passion because Deaf translators are excited to bring Scripture to people.

Grace is a translator from West Africa. Growing up, she attended church with her family. But without a Bible in her native sign language, she always felt disconnected from the spiritual messages that brought comfort to other people. It wasn’t until she joined a small community of Deaf Christians that Grace began to see God’s Word come to life in a way that made sense to her. This experience drove her to become a Bible translator so others in her community wouldn’t feel the same isolation she did.

Grace is now part of the Alogbe Sign Language Cluster project in West Africa, which will provide Scripture to over 460,000 Deaf people across 14 sign languages. Alogbe means “talking or speaking with hands” — a perfect reflection of the heart behind this project.

The Challenges of Translation Work: More Than Words

Translating the Bible into sign language is not just about signing words; it’s about communicating God’s truth visually. A visual Bible looks different from printed Scripture. Typically, a sign language Bible video is developed by recording a Deaf translator's face, hands, body movements and expressions — all part of natural sign language. This then brings the gospel to life! Because of this, it’s no surprise that the work is often slow and detailed, requiring careful consideration about how every part of the translation looks on video.

In the Amuenoon Sign Language Cluster project in West Africa, a group of 100 Deaf people — recruited from their churches — committed to translating the Bible into their sign languages. For some, this was the first time they had ever taken on such an important role. Amuenoon means “we can do it,” and that faith has propelled their mission forward, despite the challenges. Their dedication shows that the Deaf community is not just waiting for others to bring the Word of God to them — they are leading the way themselves.

Technology: Opening New Doors

One of the most exciting parts of sign language translation work is seeing how technology is making Bible translation more accessible to Deaf people, faster than ever before.

Thanks to tools like Chameleon — an innovative markerless system, using multiple cameras, that facilitates the accurate recognition and translation of sign language through the use of AI — more and more Deaf communities are seeing God’s Word come to life.

This technology not only accelerates the translation process but also ensures that translators can work safely in countries where Christianity is not welcomed. Additionally, thanks to Chameleon, the focus is now fully on the message, not the person who is the signer. The use of avatars allows the Bible to be presented in ways that resonate with Deaf people from all cultures and backgrounds, without distractions from the messenger.

God truly is on the move to make Himself known to Deaf communities through groundbreaking technology.

Until All Have Seen

The beauty of sign language Bible translation is that it deeply connects Deaf individuals to their Creator. As Deaf communities around the world, from West Africa to Eurasia, begin to engage with God’s Word in their own languages, lives are being transformed.

In April 2023, over 170 Deaf leaders gathered in Eurasia, representing more than 50 sign languages and 49 countries. They asked one powerful question: “How can we ensure every sign language still without a Bible translation has one in the next three years?” Their determination echoes throughout the world, as more and more Deaf people step forward to ensure their communities are no longer isolated from God.

As Karen Vergara, a mother of a Deaf child and advocate for sign language Bible translation, shared at a recent Scripture Celebration, “You can read the greatest story ever told, or you can be part of the greatest story ever told.”

We all get the chance to be part of this incredible movement — united in prayer, financial support and action until every Deaf person has seen and understood the life-changing message of God’s Word.

Join the Movement

The stories of Pastraporn, Grace and countless other Deaf translators remind us that Bible translation is about more than words on a page: It’s about reaching people in ways they can clearly understand. With each new translation project launched — whether in Romania, Liberia, Thailand or anywhere else where people are waiting for God’s Word — more Deaf people are able to understand God’s love for them, be transformed and become beacons of faith in their own communities.

As we look ahead to the future of sign language Bible translation, let’s join together in this powerful mission of bringing Scripture to life for Deaf communities as we work toward a day where every Deaf man, woman and child has access to the Bible in the language they cherish most.

Think about a mentor who shaped your life — a teacher who inspired you, a coach who pushed you or a spiritual leader who prayed for you. These mentors guide and mold us, offering support and wisdom at key moments in our lives.

God calls us to thrive in community, emphasizing the significance of forming relationships with one another. Jesus’ command to His followers is clear: “Go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19, NLT).

The Great Commission isn’t just about spreading the gospel — it’s about actively making disciples, walking with others and helping them grow in their faith.

Discipleship drives spiritual growth. By teaching biblical truths, modeling Christ-like behavior and encouraging others, we transform lives. And when believers receive God’s Word in their own language, they’re empowered to share the gospel and mentor others with clarity and impact.

The Great Commission's Ultimate Goal: Discipleship

In the original language, the Greek word for disciples, μαθητεύσατε / μαθητεύω / mathēteuō, refers to someone who learns from another through instruction. A disciple learns a lesson in both their head and their heart. And being a disciple of Jesus means that His teachings cause someone’s life — the way they live and interact with others — to change. It means loving God and loving others (Matthew 22:37-40).

As part of the global Church, we are called to live in community with one another. The Church is a group of people, not just a place, and it looks different across cultures and contexts. The gospel invites everyone — no matter where they live, what language they use or their cultural expression — into a transformative relationship with God and one another.

Discipleship is about teaching, mentoring and walking closely with Christ. Together, as the global Church, we can use our unique strengths and resources to share God’s Word and make a lasting impact.

Reaching Local Women Like Never Before

For years, Tugen women faithfully read the Bible in Kalenjin, a language used in their Kenyan region. But as a speaker read a portion of the newly translated Gospel of Luke in Tugen aloud, Scripture touched their hearts like never before!

Hearing the message in their own language brought the Word of God to life. In awe of the Tugen translation, the women purchased more than 50 copies of the Gospel of Luke before heading home.

While many Tugen people are Christians, traditional beliefs still influence their lives. Scripture is beginning to change that. The Tugen church also continues to empower women by translating women’s discipleship materials, showing women that God sees, knows and loves them.

Praise God: The translators recently completed the translation of the Tugen New Testament! Now more Tugen people will have the opportunity to understand biblical truth and disciple the next generation of Christ-followers in their community.

Bible Translation: A Tool for Discipleship

Bible translation helps people understand God’s character and His love. Without Scripture in someone’s language, the ability for them, as an individual, to understand doctrine and grow spiritually is challenging.

Translating the Bible equips believers to:

• Understand Doctrine: Know essential truths about salvation, grace and redemption (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
• Apply Biblical Teachings: Integrate biblical principles into everyday life, as James 1:22 urges, "But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says" (NLT).
• Grow Spiritually: Develop a personal relationship with God through His Word and bear fruit that reflects His heart (Colossians 1:9-10).

Spiritual Growth and Inspiring Neighbors

Anik lives with a difficult illness. This makes it challenging for him to earn the money that his family needs, causing them to struggle financially. “There was always some kind of sadness in my house,” he said.

But then he noticed his neighbors. Despite the similar financial challenges they were also facing, he noticed that this family radiated joy. Every Sunday, Anik overheard their worship and prayers — and that they were praying specifically for the happiness and peace of their neighbors.

Moved by these prayers, Anik asked the family to share more about their faith. They introduced him to Scripture, which was written in his language, allowing him to fully grasp its message. Anik was deeply touched, especially by the story of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. Soon he put his faith in Christ, and his family followed.

“Today, we never call ourselves poor because the love of the Lord God is with us," Anik said. Through the power of Scripture, their lives were completely changed, filling their home with the joy and peace they had once lacked. Anik’s perspective was profoundly shaped by his interaction with believers and God’s Word.

The Ripple Effect

When people receive God’s Word in a language that touches their heart, the effect is profound. Discipleship spreads, creating a ripple effect that transforms individuals, families and entire communities.

The story of the Samaritan woman in John 4 is proof of that. After a meeting with Jesus in which he offered her “living water,” and was changed, she shared her encounter with others. As a result, many from her town believed in Christ. Her faith became contagious, sparking change in her entire community (John 4:39-42, NLT).

In the same way, when believers today receive the Bible in their language, they not only grow spiritually but become disciple-makers themselves.

The Formative Impact of Studying the Bible

As Tamaga read the Biali translation of James, a couple of realizations hit him. First, his current life didn’t align with God’s will. Second, because the New Testament was in his language, he could glean more truths from Scripture on his own. He could learn how to follow Christ wholeheartedly.

This latter discovery delighted Tamaga. “When I was young … I thought that [the pastor] was the only one who could speak in the name of God,” he shared. “What he said was all that I knew about the Word.”

But with Scripture in his language, Tamaga is learning about Christ’s teachings on a personal level. He has worked to change his lifestyle and regularly listens to audio Scriptures with his family.

He is grateful for the translation project that sparked his spiritual epiphany. “I blessed the Lord for those who contributed to this work, who sought our good without knowing us,” he said.

The power of God’s Word doesn’t stop at personal growth — it drives believers like us to share it with others. We become disciple-makers, spreading the message to families and communities. As we grow in discipleship, we actively take on the Great Commission, making new disciples and expanding the proclamation of the gospel.

This ripple effect of discipleship leads to:

• Personal Transformation: Believers experience new life in Christ, as Paul describes in 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person” (NLT).
• Community Impact: Transformed individuals influence their families and neighbors, just as the Samaritan woman did.
• Global Reach: Disciples make new disciples, spreading the gospel exponentially, mirroring Acts 6:7, “So God’s message continued to spread. The number of believers greatly increased” (NLT).

This powerful ripple effect echoes the early Church’s growth — in which everyone played a part in fulfilling the Great Commission.

Faithfulness Among the Isnag

In the summer of 2023, Virginia Beach Community Chapel (VBCC) lead pastor, Pastor Robb Esperat traveled to the Philippines. He, along with his son and VBCC’s former missions pastor, attended the Isnag Bible dedication, while their congregation celebrated back home. As the Isnag people received the full Bible, they joyfully exchanged their well-worn New Testaments for fresh copies of the complete Bible.

This moment of celebration highlighted the faithfulness of both the Isnag community and those in Virginia who had invested in seeing them encounter the gospel in a language they could clearly understand. After the dedication, Pastor Robb had the privilege of baptizing 34 Isnag believers in the river — a powerful testimony to God’s work in their lives.

Reflecting on the experience, Pastor Robb shared: “Truly, the village and its surrounding areas have been transformed. I saw with fresh eyes how the ‘finish line’ of Bible translation is the ‘starting line’ of discipling the nations. God’s Word never returns void; it always produces a crop and is a sure investment of our time and resources.”

Challenges to Discipleship

Discipleship has the power to transform lives and communities, but several challenges often hinder the fulfillment of the Great Commission. Obstacles like limited Scripture access, persecution and social barriers continue to slow the spread of the gospel and the growth of new believers. We believe that Bible translation is key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring everyone can access God’s Word.

• Lack of Scripture Access: Millions of people are still waiting for the Bible in their language and format. Without Scripture, it’s difficult to fulfill the divine mandate of the Great Commission: “But how can they hear about him unless someone tells them?” (Romans 10:14, NLT).
• How does having access to the Bible impact your daily life?
• Persecution: In many places around the world, Christians face severe opposition for following Christ. Yet Jesus encourages us in John 16:33, “Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world” (NLT).
• How could you find comfort in hard times if you didn’t have Scripture in your language?
• Cultural Barriers: Misunderstandings can hinder discipleship between people from different cultures. Revelation 7:9a reminds us of the importance of cultural diversity, as God’s Kingdom will have people “from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb” (NLT).
• If differences and uncertainty discourage us from building bridges, how can we truly be the global Church?

Overcoming these challenges to discipleship requires the Holy Spirit to work in our hearts, helping us to remove barriers and persevere in wisdom and truth.

Your Role in Fulfilling the Great Commission

You’re a valued contributor to the body of Christ; you are called by God and have purpose (Romans 12). Here are a few simple ways that you can get involved in the work of Bible translation and help change the world today:

• Pray: Lift up Bible translators, missionaries and believers who are facing persecution.
• Give: Support organizations that are focused on Bible translation and discipleship.
• Go: Consider participating in missions by serving, whether locally or abroad, and sharing the gospel.
• Engage Your Church: Disciple people locally and mentor new believers in your community, helping them grow in their faith.
• Advocate: Raise awareness about the need for Bible translation, celebrate what God’s done through His people and share discipleship resources with your community.

Each of these ways contributes to the fulfillment of the Great Commission by causing individuals, communities and entire nations to be transformed. As you engage in God’s global mission, remember Jesus’ promise in Matthew 28:20: “I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (NLT).

Whether you are praying, giving, going or advocating, thank you for partnering with the global Church; your actions make an eternal impact.

A Unified Mission: Making Disciples of All Nations

Fulfilling the Great Commission is a monumental task, but when the global Church is united in its purpose, empowered by the Holy Spirit, it becomes achievable. Bible translation provides the foundational tool for spiritual growth and discipleship: God’s Word.

As the global body of Christ works together, we are helping to fulfill the vision of Revelation 7:9. Praise God for the way He is faithfully drawing His people from every corner of the earth together — for His own glory!

As you partner with our work and the work of our partner organizations, you’re helping to make this vision a reality.

Thank you for saying yes to the calling laid out in the Great Commission. As we unite in this shared calling, we don’t just help others grow in their faith — we experience transformation in our own lives.

What does participating in Great Commission activities look like for you? Invite your community to get involved or see if your church might offer a class like Perspectives. Through Christ, we can make disciples of all nations — so everyone can receive and understand the Good News of Jesus Christ.

The Great Commission is more than a directive; it’s at the heart of the Christian faith. When Jesus said, “Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19, NLT), He wasn't just speaking to His immediate disciples but to all who would follow Him. This command transcends time and geography, calling every believer to participate in spreading the Good News.

But how can we effectively reach “all nations”? At Wycliffe Bible Translators, we value linguistic and cultural diversity — and we believe that God does too. A key example of this is Pentecost.

Pentecost: A Celebration of Diversity

Pentecost was a pivotal moment in the early Church. Jesus promised the coming of the Holy Spirit: “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you” (John 14:16, NLT). The word for “Advocate” in this passage refers to comforter, encourager and counselor. The Holy Spirit empowers and equips us to step into the calling of the Great Commission and make disciples of all nations.

In Acts 2, the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles, enabling them to speak in “tongues.” People from different regions and languages heard the apostles, and the crowd declared: “… We all hear these people speaking in our own languages about the wonderful things God has done!” (Acts 2:11, NLT)

Pentecost reminds us that God's message is for everyone, regardless of language or culture. This miracle of language emphasizes why it’s important to communicate the gospel to people in a way that resonates with each individual — a language that they think in, dream in, pray in and identify with.

The Role of Language in Identity

Language is more than words — it's an essential part of who we are. Language influences our worldview, traditions and relationships. When people receive God's Word in a language they understand, it connects deeply and has potential for the Holy Spirit to transform their lives forever.

Have you ever been in a situation where you were the only one who didn’t speak the language? Maybe you traveled on a trip overseas, enjoying incredible food and culture.

But how did you feel when you tried to use and understand a language that wasn’t yours? Did you stumble through ordering dinner, get confused while asking for directions or struggle while trying to purchase your souvenirs?

Now imagine trying to understand the Bible in a language you only partially comprehend. How would you feel? Confused? Frustrated? Would you be able to understand the nuances of the words and passages? For many people around the world, this is a daily reality. They might grasp the general message of Scripture, but they’re missing the profound depth of God's love and promises because it’s not in a language that truly resonates with them.

Translating in Colombia

Missing words and language barriers can lead people to not connect with Scripture at best or, at worst, misunderstand key messages. Guillermo, a pastor in Colombia, was helping check the translation of the Book of Mark. When the checking team began work on the account of Jesus healing both Jairus’ daughter and the woman who had been bleeding for 12 years, Guillermo seemed troubled.

“I’ve been preaching the wrong thing!” he told a translator. “When I read this passage from my Spanish Bible, I didn’t understand the story correctly.”

From his understanding of the Spanish, Pastor Guillermo had previously taught that the daughter and the woman were the same person. But when he read the same verses in his language, Guillermo clearly understood. He could now preach confidently what he knew to be true.

“That’s why we need God’s Word in our own language!” Guillermo exclaimed.

If your first language is English, it might be easy to take for granted the wealth of Bible translations and spiritual growth resources you have available. From worship songs that resonate on a deeply personal level to devotionals and sermons that draw from multiple Bible versions, access to Scripture might not even be something you think about.

Yet for millions of people around the world, their access is still limited or nonexistent. But it doesn’t have to be this way and today, communities are actively working to change this!

Pentecost and Bible Translation: Bridging the Gap

From the beginning, Bible translation has been central to sharing the gospel. The original texts of the Bible were written in Hebrew, Greek and Aramaic — languages that made sense to the people who first received God’s Word.

But as the gospel spread across regions, translation became essential to fulfilling the Great Commission, ensuring that people from all nations could encounter the truth of Scripture in a way they could clearly understand. Just as the Bible was translated into English  making it accessible to people like you  today’s translation efforts continue to break down language barriers worldwide.

Pentecost was a divine example of how God wants to communicate His message to people in a format and language that resonates with them. Bible translation as well as the Holy Spirit’s work at Pentecost is a reminder to us all that God values different cultures and languages. Bible translation isn’t just about helping preserve different languages; it’s about making the gospel accessible in a way that connects deeply with people and makes a difference in their everyday lives.

At Wycliffe Bible Translators, we partner with like-minded and churches worldwide  and God is at work through this collaboration, transforming individual lives, families and even entire communities for His glory!

Restoring Relationships in Ghana

Prior to Bible translation beginning in the Siwu language of Ghana, two communities — the Akpafu and Lolobi — were separated with no intention of restoring relationship with each other. Despite the distance between villages, when the community began translating the New Testament into Siwu, they picked a translation committee chairman from Lolobi and a vice-chair from Akpafu.

Working as a team, they translated Scripture together — navigating slight idiosyncrasies in their specific dialects and assisting each other — eventually completing their translations and dedicating the New Testaments.

For years, the Lolobi and Akpafu were separated because of a disagreement no one from either community can recall. But their mutual desire for the Word of God in their language gave them a common purpose. When it seemed impossible, the Siwu people showed up — together — and celebrated Scripture in their language.

Bible translation will continue to be a vital part of sharing the gospel until every person has the chance to hear, read or see the message of Jesus in their language. It’s not just a logistical task — it’s a mission that reflects God’s desire to connect with every nation, people and language by drawing all people to Himself.

Your Role in Fulfilling the Great Commission

You don’t have to be a Bible translator or linguist to be able to help fulfill the Great Commission through the work of Bible translation today! As members of the global Church, we each have a part to play — using our time, talents, resources and skills to help bring the gospel to all people.

Here are some ideas for you to actively engage with the work God is doing around the world today:

• • Learn about cultures that are different from your own.
• While you might not have unlimited funds to be able to travel halfway around the world this week, that doesn’t mean you can’t find ways to engage with different cultures. In fact, you might not even have to leave your own city!
• Whether you’re visiting a cultural fair or learning how to cook with new ingredients, check out some fun and easy ways you can live cross-culturally in your own community.
• • Use your money to make an eternal impact.
• You can financially partner with missionaries who are serving in countries around the world to help make Scripture available in every language.
• Did you know that you can also become a monthly partner with Wycliffe? Through your monthly gifts, you'll share the Good News — God’s message of love — with millions of people who have never received it.
• • Engage in cross-cultural ministry.
• Look for opportunities to engage with people from diverse cultures in your own community. Whether through your church or a local outreach, cross-cultural engagement can happen right in your neighborhood.
• • Pray for God to continue to move in and through the global Church.
• God is at work in Bible translation in ways we’ve never seen before! Your prayers can help make an eternal difference in communities around the world today, bringing the gospel to more people.

United in Mission

Pentecost reminds us that the gospel transcends linguistic and cultural barriers: People from different regions and languages heard the message of Christ in a way they could understand (Acts 2), fulfilling the call to make disciples of all nations.

The same Holy Spirit is changing lives today. As we continue to share the gospel and embrace the Great Commission, let’s come together as the global Church to bring the life-changing message of Jesus to people everywhere.

Revelation 7:9a paints a beautiful picture of the Kingdom of heaven: “After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb” (NLT). This vision of our promised future is a testament to how much God values the unique beauty of languages and cultural expressions.

Through the Holy Spirit’s work and the global Church’s unity, we can be part of making disciples of all nations, just as Jesus commanded in Matthew 28.

How will you take part in fulfilling the Great Commission through Bible translation, ensuring the gospel transcends linguistic and cultural barriers and reaches all people?

The Power of God’s Word in Every Language

When people encounter Jesus through Scripture in their own language, they are profoundly impacted. Bible translation is not just about translating words — it’s about opening the door for people to have a personal relationship with God. Individuals and entire communities are experiencing the Bible for the first time in a way that touches their hearts, and the results are life-changing.

Wycliffe Bible Translators exists to collaborate with churches, communities and partner organizations to ensure everyone — speaking or signing at least 7,300 languages worldwide — can access God’s Word in a language and format they can clearly understand. Today Bible translation efforts are growing exponentially, driven largely by local churches and communities who are taking ownership of this work.

A Time of Unprecedented Acceleration

Seeds planted in communities around the world over the past several decades have taken root and are now producing an abundant harvest. People whose lives were first touched by the gospel in their own language are now working to bring that same message to other communities. The global Church is expanding, and Bible translation is often the first step in this growth.

This movement is not confined to one region or people group; it is happening everywhere! The global Church is asking for, and even initiating, Scripture translations in their own languages and communities. As they identify the Scripture portions they need, they are inviting Wycliffe and our partners to join them in this work. It’s a privilege to be a part of this God-sized movement, collaborating with more than 1,200 partners — including churches, mission organizations and like-minded ministries — to see more people encounter Jesus through Scripture.

The Impact of Vision 2025

Vision 2025 aims to have a Bible translation program in progress in every language still needing one by the end of 2025. Currently Wycliffe USA is engaged with 1,982 languages, and there are only 980 Vision 2025 languages remaining that still need Bible translation to begin. This ambitious goal is only achievable through the grace of God and the collaboration of the global Church.

Vision 2025 is about ensuring that no one is left without access to the hope and transformation found in God’s Word. Each language is more than just a number — it represents a community, a people group with unique cultural expressions and, most importantly, a need for people to experience the love of God in a language they clearly understand.

Joining God in His Mission

God is calling us to something far beyond what we could ever accomplish on our own. He is inviting us to imagine a day when all people have Scripture in their language and are able to worship Him. Those who say “yes” to this invitation will one day look back with gratitude and joy, knowing they were part of a pivotal moment in history.

Bible translation is often the starting point for other Great Commission activities such as church planting, evangelism and discipleship. When people can understand the Bible in their own language, they are empowered to share it with others, and the gospel spreads exponentially. This is God’s heart: that all people would encounter Him through His Word.

How You Can Get Involved

As we witness this historic move of God, we are reminded that this work cannot be done alone. It requires the collaborative efforts of individuals, churches and organizations around the world. God is inviting each of us to have a front-row seat to watch Him work and participate in what He is doing.

Whether through prayer, financial support or actively joining translation efforts, there are many ways you can be a part of this mission — including participating as a church. Let’s say “yes” together and watch God move in ways we never imagined.

This is a unique time in history, one where we have the opportunity to witness the global Church coming together to ensure every man, woman and child has access to God’s Word. As we move forward, let’s continue to pray for, support and engage with this mission.

God is working in powerful ways, and it’s an honor to be part of His mission. Together we can help bring God’s Word to the ends of the earth.

Did you know that nearly a third of the Old Testament was written in poetic form? Psalms, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon and Job are just a few of the books where we can experience God’s Word through poetry!

Often poetry is seen as a type of writing that is meant to inspire and entertain, but it’s not typically viewed as the most direct way of providing information. Many of us look to Scripture for practical guidance and direction for how to live our lives. But what about enjoyment and beauty?

God’s heart is revealed in every passage of Scripture, and the Bible has the power to transform lives! We can get a unique look at His love, zeal and compassion — and how those characteristics impact our relationship with Him — through the poetic books of the Bible.

Today people are waiting to encounter these attributes of God through experiencing His Word in a language they understand. Wycliffe engages with 3,000 partners — churches, missions organizations and like-minded ministries — around the world to help bring people the poetry of Psalms, Proverbs and more in their language.

Just like David expressed his grief and joys to the Lord in Psalms, the author of Lamentations cried out to God and declared hope in His character, and King Hezekiah wrote poems of praise, Bible translators have used poetry to convey their praises and petitions for the life-changing work of Bible translation.

As you read these prayers and poems from translators, join us in praising God for all He is doing to bring His Word to people in their language, and let’s pray for the work that is still to be done.

“Flaming Candle” by Ken Pike

The following poem was originally written by Ken Pike, a pioneer in Bible translation who made significant contributions to linguistics, philosophy and poetry. Much of his work as a translator was spent with the Mixtec-speaking people of Central America. His sister, Eunice Pike, was one of the first women to help translate the Bible.

This poem was originally published in HIS Magazine in 1958.

• Sharp cut lamps of night —
• By strength of Mighty God
• Lighted with eternal fire,
• Placed in candlestick of naught —
• And roaming with energy
• transformed —
• So we would shine,
• Transformed from nothing, set apart
• To light worlds with Glory
• Born beneath a candle
• Set o’er Bethlehem’s morn.

Ken Pike’s poem reminds the reader of the beauty of Jesus! Inspired by verses such as John 8:12, where Jesus declares that He is the light of the world, Ken’s poem serves as an encouragement for us to praise Him and reflect on His goodness. We can do this as we read other Scriptures, like Psalm 119:105, and are reminded that God’s Word is “a lamp to our feet and a light to our path”!

“Why Have You Come?” by William Atherton

The following is an excerpt from a poem titled “Why Have You Come?” written by William Atherton, a translator serving in the Philippines. This poem captures the emotions of a translator and his relationship with a local man who wants to know why the translator has come.

• “And there’s no use them to deny.
• Nor to refute, nor answer back;
• I understand the ‘what and why.’
• But to your question let us turn.”
• At this with loving hands he took
• His work from off the desk and said:
• “The answer’s found right here — this Book.
• Look! Look! Here’s the Word of Life,
• No longer in a foreign tongue,
• But in the old familiar words
• Used by these people old and young.
• So jests, or sneers, or rage mean
• Naught when daily grows this sacred Tome
• Each line, each page so richly wrought
• With golden threads of help from home
• And you must know that for each foe,
• Ten friends have I my heart to cheer,
• And prayer and love from them rise up
• To guard my soul from pain and fear.
• “And best of all, my Saviour’s here —
• Companion on life’s rugged way.
• So ‘tis no wonder, my dear friend,
• That I am willing here to stay.
• “Then, someday, when this Book’s complete,
• I’ll bring it as an offering,
• As when the wise men came of old
• And paid to Him their homage deep,
• With rich, rare gifts; and shepherds too,
• In awesome reverence brought a sheep.
• I know not how those gifts were used.
• Nor do I ask. Our King is wise;
• And each gift finds its proper use
• To lead men to the heavenly prize.”

The “why” of Bible translation is so important, and the heart of it can be seen clearly in William Atheron’s words — “to lead [people] to the heavenly prize”! Today we are praying for and awaiting a day when all people can experience the Word of Life in their own language.

The Prayer of a Co-Translation Helper

This prayer was originally published in an issue of Translation magazine in 1972. Join us in praying these words of praise and petition over those working to bring God’s Word to all people in a language they understand!

• Oh Jesus Christ, my God, you who live in heaven, thank you for our life which you give us day by day and for our health. We ask the favor that you forgive our sins. Protect us every day wherever we are. Protect our children. Protect our wives at home. We also ask the favor that you will protect our brothers who believe in you. Yes, protect the men, women, and children, God, because we know that it is written in your Word that only you are our Guardian. How we thank you, God, that we believe and that we understand your Word.

• We ask the favor that you will watch over all our brethren wherever they might live. Save them from danger, because the people are angry with them. Thank you that your Word came here where we live. But we ask the favor that it should not come just to us, but to all those who have not yet heard it. Strengthen us, God, so that we can tell your Word to the people. And save us from the people who are angry with us. Forgive them for what they say in opposition to your Word. All these favors we ask. Thank you, God. Thank you.

• We ask the favor that you will bless the people who write your Word all over the world. Give them wisdom so that what they write will turn out well. Now bless all: the men, the women, the boys, the girls, all who work for the spread of your Word. Protect them. It is written in your Word, God, that you are with us until the end of the world. All these favors we ask and thank you now at this time. Amen.

Praise God for encouragement and inspiration — found both in His Word and the prayers and words of people seeking to make Him known across the world! As you go about your day, sit down to enjoy God’s Word or pray, remember these poems and prayers and thank God for the beauty of knowing Him.

We’ve all been there — praying for something and awaiting the answer. Sometimes God responds with “Yes,” “No,” or “Wait, not yet.”

Some of these stories include answers to prayer that came immediately, while others took months, years or even centuries. Think of Hannah’s prayer for a child (see 1 Samuel 1:9-20), Hezekiah’s prayer for healing (see 2 Kings 20:1-6) or the church’s prayer for Peter in prison (see Acts 12:1-17).

One of the longest seasons of seemingly unanswered prayer — apart from the long-promised arrival of the Messiah — is seen in the case of the Israelites, who cried for freedom after being enslaved in Egypt for more than 400 years. God heard their cry, remembered His covenant promise and “knew it was time to act” (Exodus 2:25b). Generations of Israelites lived and died without seeing God’s deliverance.

Talk about a season of feeling like God doesn’t hear your cries! But God did hear, and He did respond — in His perfect timing.

God's Faithfulness in Answered Prayers

Throughout Wycliffe USA’s history, God has answered prayers in ways we couldn’t even begin to imagine. Like His people experienced before us, some of these prayers were answered quickly while others took decades before the anticipated and longed for results were witnessed.

Our founder William Cameron Townsend once said, “We have advanced on our knees. Wycliffe has been built on prayer. True, there’s been a lot of action as a result of our prayers, but it’s been prayer that has solved the problems, strengthened the leadership, and brought the guidance and direction from our Leader.”

And we want to be intentional about remembering God’s faithfulness when we’re asking Him to do amazing things through Bible translation.

From Exodus through Joshua, God tells the Israelites 28 times to “remember” Him. They were to specifically remember who God is and what He had done for them.

In fact, when Joshua led Israel across the Jordan River, God gave him very intentional instructions to set up what we refer to as “stones of remembrance.” These stones were to serve as a visual, tangible reminder of what God had done to bring them this far — and a reminder that this same God could and would carry them through the days, months and years ahead as they entered the Promised Land.

Today, we are living in a season of answered prayer — a moment in history when His Church is on the cusp of seeing Scripture translated into every language spoken, written and signed on Earth.

A Milestone in Bible Translation History: Vision 2025

As of Oct. 1, 2024, there are only 980 Vision 2025 languages that still need Bible translation work to start for the first time.

We want to intentionally declare, “That was God’s hand at work! We asked God to move, and He did.” — whether it was how we imagined and asked for, or in ways beyond what we could have even dreamed!

We don’t take this milestone lightly. To get where we are today, it’s taken:

• Years of faithful service from missionaries who answered the Lord’s call to serve Him, often moving across the world to work alongside communities in this work — people like Florrie Hansen and Eunice Pike, who stepped out in bold faith and confidence that God could use them, no matter what.
• Decades of generosity from partners like Dottie Brown, who has supported missionaries and projects for more than 70 years!
• Thousands of people praying for the work, sometimes without knowing if God was answering. Others, like 5-year-old Sam, had the incredible opportunity to hear exactly how God answered his prayers!

These are only a few examples of how God has used people — His body, the Church — to advance the Great Commission through Bible translation efforts. Many more stories can be found here on our website that demonstrate not only God’s faithfulness but also people’s obedience and trust that He would do what He said He would do!

Imagining a Day When All the Nations Worship

We serve and worship an incredible God — a God who has already promised that one day there will be “a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb” (Revelation 7:9a, NLT).

God is on the move, and He’s accelerating this work all around the world. Together, let’s step out in bold faith and ask Him to do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine as we aim to:

• See Bible translation started for every language still needing it.
• Equip the Church for evangelism, discipleship and church planting.
• Make Scripture available so that every man, woman and child can encounter Jesus personally and understand His love in a way that transforms their lives forever.

We won’t stop working until all Scripture is made available for all people, knowing that God will equip His Church to see this become reality on earth, just as He has promised it will be in heaven.

God is advancing the Great Commission around the world as He works through Bible translation to bring people His Word in a language and format they clearly understand. You can participate in this Kingdom work through your prayers, gifts, advocacy and service. One way to support Bible translation is through Wycliffe’s 2024 Gift Catalog. Your support will help us continue to say “yes” when churches and communities ask for our help with translating Scripture.

Here are a couple of stories from communities represented in the 2024 Gift Catalog.

Understanding the Value of Scripture in Their Language

Birao is one of the 11 languages within the Tomako Cluster in the Solomon Islands. The Birao people were encouraged after engaging with Scripture translated into Solomon Islands Pijin — a language of wider communication in the country.

Though Birao is the language closest to their hearts, many villagers can comprehend Pijin more clearly than English. Few had interacted with the Pijin Bible before, so they were amazed by how much more they could understand it compared to the English translations they were using.

Now community members are hungering for Scripture in their language.

God Is Working Through the Birao Team

Several Birao speakers are now training to join the Bible translation staff. One potential person was considered for translation training, but the team has identified other valuable skills he can use to better serve the cause. He is projected to help with Scripture engagement, translation awareness efforts and more — a clear example that the Lord uses each person’s skills to accomplish His work.

God also worked in a different way to accomplish His purposes recently when a community member stole money from a project adviser. Villagers expressed disdain for the thief, but the Birao team used this as an opportunity to practice forgiveness.

The community could clearly see the team’s Christian values rooted in Scripture. Each day, the staff move another step closer to distributing the translated Word among their people. Your gift helps meet first Scripture needs in these 11 communities.

Indescribable Joy

A pastor named Clément of the Guley people in Chad experienced “indescribable joy” when he first received the New Testament in his language.

Before its publication, Clement had to depend on Bible translations in French and another local language called Ngambay whenever he preached or led small-group studies. While both are widely spoken in the region, the Guley people don’t know these languages as well as their own.

As a result, many people — even church leaders like Clément — struggled to grasp the teachings of Scripture.

God’s Word in Guley Is Providing Clarity

But all that changed once the Guley New Testament became available.

“I had been trying to get across some ideas which were difficult to translate,” Pastor Clément said.

Now Guley Christians are eager to have the complete Bible in their language. Translating the Old Testament will, as Pastor Clément put it, allow the community to “benefit from the marvels of the Word of God.”

Only 10% of the Guley population identify as Christians. Some people adhere to another major world religion, but most follow a traditional religion in which they worship multiple gods. These beliefs and practices dominate most aspects of daily life in the Guley community.

After project leaders identified the pressing issues that the Guley community faces and considered possible solutions, they reached the consensus that Scripture is the key. A project coordinator said:

“And … in order for it to be well understood, it has to be translated into the heart language.” Old Testament portions will shed light on the one true God’s character and attributes, and give a fuller picture of His redemptive plan for humanity.

Guley church leaders also believe that having the full counsel of God’s Word will be key in helping the community address widespread practices of idolatry as well as social issues. Your gift will help the Guley people complete their Bible.

Please prayerfully consider how you can support Bible translation in the Pacific, Africa or in one of the other global regions represented in the 2024 Gift Catalog.

Meet Jacqueline! She began serving with Wycliffe in February 2024 as a part-time employee on a short-term basis. She made an impact by contributing to priority projects and collaborating with the team. In August 2024, she had the opportunity to begin serving in a full-time leadership role.

God has been at work throughout Jacqueline’s life, and she shared five things that played a part in her journey to serving with Wycliffe.

1. A Strong Church Community

While attending college in California, Jacqueline began to explore God’s will for her life. She found a Christ-following community that provided her with accountability, encouragement and spiritual support. She said, “My church community has been where I’ve found strength in both joyful and challenging seasons.”

She was excited to grow deeper in her faith while also pursuing her career at a leading technology company in California, when a family emergency drew her to move back to her hometown. The support and wisdom of her local church leaders helped her navigate that difficult time.

One conversation was especially pivotal. She said, “We were praying together, and I felt God calling me to something bigger, something unexpected.” Jacqueline followed God’s lead and moved from California to Chicago — a move that not only took her out of her comfort zone but also redirected her professional path. As she stepped out in faith, Jacqueline experienced God’s guidance every step of the way. She said:

2. The Power of Scripture

Seasons of uncertainty, fear and challenge happen in life. In these moments, the path ahead can seem unclear or even daunting. For Jacqueline, God’s Word has provided the strength and assurance she needs to press forward regardless of circumstances. One Scripture verse in particular has brought her comfort again and again:

She explained, “When fear or uncertainty comes, it reminds me that God’s strength is all I need. He is with me, and He is for me. There is no greater comfort than knowing that God is by my side, fighting for me, guiding me through both the calm and the storm.”

3. Prayer and Discernment

Discernment for Jacqueline has always been a process rooted in prayer. In considering a move back to California, Jacqueline and her husband, Michael, sought God’s voice intentionally, stepping away from the busyness of daily life. “We carved out quiet spaces to listen to God,” she shared. “We prayed together, asked others to intercede on our behalf and waited for that sense of peace and clarity that only God can bring.”

Despite the fears of starting over in a new place, leaving behind Michael’s family in Chicago and saying goodbye to a close-knit community, they trusted God had a plan for the journey. And the connections Jacqueline built during her time in Chicago eventually led her to consider serving with Wycliffe!

She said, “The more I learned about the incredible impact of bringing God’s Word to people in their language, the more I knew this was something I wanted to be part of.”

4. Serving Alongside God’s People

When Jacqueline began serving with Wycliffe, the warmth and community she received from her colleagues was an unexpected joy.

Jacqueline also noticed the commitment that colleagues brought as they contributed to Bible translation. She explained, “It wasn’t just about doing a job — it was about being part of something so much bigger. These were people deeply committed to God’s work, and that kind of passion is contagious.”

5. Making an Impact

At Wycliffe we want everyone to encounter Jesus through Scripture in a language and format they clearly understand. God uses His people to accomplish this goal!

Jacqueline is excited to make a difference in the lives of people God has led to serve Him. By guiding a team that seeks to support Wycliffe staff, she has the opportunity to play a part in caring for people, ensuring they feel valued and supported.

She said, “Whether it’s through compensation, benefits or optimizing systems, we aim to create an environment where all staff can focus fully on their work without distraction.”

God is raising up local churches to take the lead in Bible translation for their own communities, countries and even entire regions, accelerating the pace like never before. We seek to contribute to, support, learn from and serve others with a spirit of humility and mutuality. Jacqueline said, “Our God is incredibly collaborative. He invites us to join Him in His story, in His mission.”

She concluded:

There are thousands of books about leadership out there. You could scroll online right now and find at least half a dozen titles about how to be a great leader — how to get people to follow and listen to you, how to achieve influence and make a difference. You’d find titles about how to make your name known, build your company or acquire positions of power.

Leadership isn’t a new concept; there have been leaders since the creation of the world. But when Jesus came along, He decided to flip the narrative of leadership on its head. People didn't expect that — at all. And it’s not the kind of marketing strategy you’d find in a best-selling “how-to” leadership book today.

Christianity and Servant Leadership

In Matthew 20:25-28 (NLT), this is what Jesus said about leadership:

“But Jesus called them together and said, ‘You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.’”

There’s this beautiful Christian-ese phrase we use to describe the kind of person Jesus talks about in Matthew 20 — a “servant leader.” In Christ, the goal of our leadership is not to grab power but to serve.

Leadership isn’t about shining the spotlight on ourselves. It’s about giving God the center stage, and having the ability to love and respect the people in our care, using the authority we’ve been given with grace.

No matter whether you’re the CEO of an organization, an older sibling, the drum major of a high-school marching band, or a volunteer at church, everyone is leading someone.

So how do you actually become a servant leader?

While we might not have a bestselling book to reference (sorry!), we do have six different qualities to keep in mind if you want to become a servant leader:

1. Integrity

To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice. — Proverbs 21:3 (ESV)

As a servant leader, perhaps the most important quality is integrity. It is the foundation on which all other leadership qualities are built. Proverbs 21:3 is a reminder that Jesus calls us to walk in the ways of righteousness and justice — our actions should reflect our faith.

If we are true servant leaders, we can’t cheat, lie and manipulate our way to the top. We are called to do something much different and entirely countercultural — to be honest.

The world tells us to do whatever it takes to achieve success and acclaim. Books tell us to dress and act a certain way to get noticed. Fairy tales tell us to just believe in ourselves.

Integrity is an intentional lifestyle, reflecting an overall track record of honesty and good character. We will stumble here and there, and we will we fall short (because we’re humans, after all). But true servant leaders are able to confess their sins before God and those they lead.

Living life with integrity, especially in the face of challenges and temptations, is an incredible way to witness to those who look up to us.

2. Humility

Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. — Colossians 3:12 (NLT)

One of the most difficult things to admit to ourselves and others is that we don’t know it all.

With the internet at the tip of our fingers, it can be tempting to swipe through a few pages in a search engine and convince ourselves we’re an expert on a subject. It can be so easy to isolate ourselves in a bubble of self-knowledge and self-assurance, kicking out any and every opinion that doesn’t align with what we want.

If we’re not careful, we can become prideful. It’s easy to become addicted to the power and authority attached with being a leader.

In Christian servant leadership, we have to be willing to learn from and listen to those we lead, because we know that they have value and worth. The truth is that they might actually have better ideas than we do or a perspective we don’t.

Have you ever had the chance to hear a story about someone else’s culture or step into a space where everyone looks different than you? Have you ever tried an authentic meal from another country?

One of the most rewarding experiences is the opportunity to meet people from various backgrounds who can share their perspectives and stories.

Knowing someone else’s journey allows us to expand our view of the Kingdom of God — it’s a beautiful place filled with people from all countries, languages and ethnicities!

3. Flexibility

I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. — Philippians 4:12‑13 (NLT)

Servant leaders practice flexibility — they’re willing to adapt to their situations and surroundings. They recognize that life can throw them into unexpected situations or challenges.

But instead of allowing those unexpected events to cause anger, confusion or panic, a godly response looks different:

Servant leaders recognize that God is present in every circumstance, and they have the willingness to practice being flexible and actually invite change!

It can be easy to get stuck in routines, with one set way of doing things. But a servant leader’s ability to recognize change for what it is — an opportunity for growth and faith — will help as they lead others well.

4. Resilience

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. — Hebrews 12:1‑2 (ESV)

Set in the context of running, the first two verses of Hebrews 12 define a life of resilience. It’s a quality that comes from building up spiritual endurance to the point where you’re actually thriving in challenging situations.

If you’ve ever trained for a race or played a sport, you know that endurance doesn’t just happen overnight. Initially, you have to trick your body into liking long distances! You run short distances first and then build up to longer ones. You get blisters and you take water breaks, but eventually you can run farther and longer.

Life will always have challenges: fights we cannot win, mountains we just can’t climb and dark valleys with no visible way out.

But in the midst of life’s challenges, God’s constant presence is our source of comfort. He doesn’t always fix our circumstance, and sometimes the solution isn’t on our timetable, but He will always help us get through it — with love, strength, patience and more.

Resilience is only possible by relying on Jesus. If we rely on ourselves and our own strength, we’ll fail every time — we’ll faceplant in the middle of our race and quit.

Servant leaders recognize that struggles are real and life is difficult, but God is in control. Resilience isn’t an absence of fear, challenges or momentary failures. Resilience is the ability to bounce back, to push through and to press on based on the truth that God has enabled us to persevere because He is our ultimate source of strength.

5. Stewardship

As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace. — 1 Peter 4:10 (ESV)

God’s given so many different spiritual gifts to his people. Could you imagine what life would be like if everyone thought, looked and acted the same? The world would be so dull!

When you hear the word “stewardship,” your mind probably goes straight to money. One of Merriam-Webster’s definitions of the word is “the careful and responsible management of something entrusted to one's care.”

But stewardship is not just about managing your money wisely, though that’s part of it! It’s just as important to be good stewards of the people God has placed in our lives.

A servant leader sees people as valuable to God and stewards their time and talents well. This kind of leader calls out what is good and true about the people they lead, giving them instruction and encouragement in how to serve God well. A servant leader uses their time for God’s glory, not their own.

When this kind of person interacts with you, you’ll know it. You’ll leave interactions feeling like you are valued by them and God, and that your talents are being leveraged for the kingdom. That’s an example worth following!

6. Empathy

Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. — Romans 12:15 (NLT)

How many times have you had a friend or family member sit with you when you were hurting? Have you ever received an encouraging note from someone when you needed it most?

Think about what it meant for you to have a person truly empathize with you during your struggles.

Empathy for a servant leader is simply being able to visualize yourself in someone else's position. It helps you to understand what someone is feeling.

Empathy is a key aspect of leadership. It’s easy to get hyper-focused on tasks and the work that we do. Work is important and accomplishing goals is too! But if we’re not careful, we can begin to see people as problems to be solved instead of human beings to be loved.

When we’re able to take time out of our day to empathize with those around us and put ourselves in their shoes, we become more like Jesus. Whenever Jesus encountered someone who was hurting or in need of encouragement, He looked at them and had compassion for them. Then He acted.

Servant Leadership and Bible Translation

Leadership might seem intimidating. A lot of responsibility goes into it. But servant leadership also brings the potential to witness to others and demonstrate Jesus in ways other positions wouldn’t have fully allowed.

A servant leader’s primary focus is on the growth and well-being of others. Leading and loving people like Christ instills purpose in our lives.

Take some time today to think about the people in your life God is calling you to lead. Consider how your skills and position lead by example. And when it’s time to make decisions within that role, ask yourself a famous question: “What would Jesus do?”

The Bible outlines what it looks like to follow Jesus and to use our time, talents and treasures for His Kingdom. But what if you didn’t have access to this outline? How could you become more like Christ?

We believe that Scripture helps us understand how to lead others the way that Jesus would. So what would happen if you didn’t have access to it in your own language? How would you know how God wants you to live?

You can embark on a mission to proclaim the hope found in Jesus by partnering with the work of Bible translation! Serving in and advocating for missions worldwide looks different for each person. But by embodying the qualities of a servant leader, you can leverage your position for God’s Kingdom.

You’ll help pave the way for your family members, friends and church to get involved in Bible translation efforts around the world — truly leading by example as a godly servant leader.

Learn how you can be part of bringing Scripture passages like the ones mentioned in this article to people who do not yet have them in their language!

Yet there are still many communities around the world waiting to experience this life-changing message in their own language. The Word of God, with its power to touch hearts and change lives, remains inaccessible to numerous people groups due to language barriers. This is why the work of Bible translation is pivotal.

Bible translation is not just about translating words; it is about transforming lives by ensuring that every person can encounter Jesus through Scripture in a language and format they clearly understand. As this message reaches to the ends of the earth, God is moving, using His global Church in ways we have never seen before in the history of the world. He is inviting us to have a front-row seat to watch what He is doing and participate in this mission.

All around the world, churches are rising up and taking ownership of Bible translation for their own communities. This growing sense of responsibility and collaboration within the global Church is causing unprecedented acceleration in Bible translation efforts. Wycliffe serves as a catalyst in this movement, engaging with hundreds of partners worldwide to carry out this God-sized vision.

Together, we are witnessing believers around the world uniting with the shared mission of seeing all people access God’s Word.

We are living in a historic moment where the possibility that every language on earth could have access to the Bible is within reach. This vision echoes the words of Revelation 7:9a (NLT):

This isn’t just about translation — it’s about transforming hearts and lives and leaving a legacy that spans generations.

The mission of Bible translation continues to inspire and motivate us. We look forward to a day when every person, no matter where they live or what language they use, has the opportunity to encounter the greatest story ever told in a way that touches their hearts.

Meet Bethany! Bethany’s journey to missions began when she was in college. She had the opportunity to travel overseas to serve in a country three times every summer as part of an English teaching group. This inspired her and ignited her passion to be part of a global community.

Through these experiences, Bethany felt very clearly that God was leading her to serve in missions. Although she knew God was asking her to stay in that country and continue to serve, she hesitated. She explained, “At the time, I was too afraid to follow God.” Bethany spent many years wondering what might have happened if she had said “yes” to God in that moment.

As Bethany’s faith and trust in God grew, He was faithful to provide her with another opportunity to serve Him. She said, “Thankfully God brought me to the place I am today.”

But that journey also required her to depend on Him in new ways.

An Answered Prayer

In 2020, Bethany felt like God wanted her to do something different and start something new. But she wasn’t able to discern how God was leading her yet. She turned to prayer for wisdom and guidance on her next steps. She said: “I started praying, ‘I’ll do whatever You want me to do, but You’re going to have to show it to me.’”

Bethany decided to “jump in” and, within a few months, she had taken the steps to join Wycliffe as a missionary. She said, “I finally said ‘yes’ to God about serving in missions, and here I am!”

Making an Impact

At Wycliffe we’re witnessing God move in ways that we have never seen before in the history of the world! By serving with the global body of Christ, Bethany has an opportunity to be part of what God is doing through the global Bible translation movement, as churches and communities engage the last remaining languages that need access to God's Word.

Bible translation is often the starting place for other Great Commission activities such as church planting, evangelism and discipleship. Bethany said, “I’m … so grateful to be part of an organization that is all about the Great Commission.”

Say “Yes”

Each of us is on a journey of being transformed into Christ’s image as we depend on God, pray with expectation and trust Him. Bethany has learned many things throughout her journey to Wycliffe, but one thing in particular stands out for her:

When you’re thinking about your gifts, skills or level of education, it can be easy to compare yourself to others. Common concerns or fears about missions may surface. But Bethany emphasized, “God can use people of all ages and all walks of life and all stages of life. There are all sorts of ways that you can serve. Of course you can serve full time. You can also serve part time. You can volunteer. … Do not limit what God can do.”

God is inviting us to take part in what He is doing around the world! We are seeing lives are transformed when people encounter Jesus through Scripture in a language and format they clearly understand. And when you participate in what God is doing, you’ll be part of a mission that is deeply fulfilling.

From the moment Adam and Eve chose their own way over God’s way in the Garden of Eden, difficulty and pain have been an unyielding part of humanity’s narrative. Sin impacted all of creation, introducing suffering and damaging everything from our personal relationships to nature itself. Whether our days are clouded with regular struggles or we feel lost in anguish, God is with us in the pain, and His victorious plan is full of light and redemption.

Having access to Scripture in our own language allows us to dig deep into God’s Word, especially when we walk through hard times. Bible verses contain life-changing truths.

Let’s look at seven Scripture passages that illuminate our suffering with brilliant hope.

1. Genesis 3:14-15 — God has always had victory over evil.

As soon as Satan appeared in the form of a snake and tempted Adam and Eve to sin, God handed down His punishment to Satan: “Then the LORD God said to the serpent, ‘Because you have done this, you are cursed more than all animals, domestic and wild. You will crawl on your belly, groveling in the dust as long as you live. And I will cause hostility between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring. He will strike your head, and you will strike his heel’” (NLT).

This wasn’t just a metaphor about Satan’s conflict with humans and his eventual humiliation; it was a statement of God’s ultimate victory. Evil might be able to wound people for a time, but from the beginning God knew that Jesus would defeat death and Satan. Although the devil intended for sin and brokenness to destroy us, his designs are powerless, and suffering won’t have the final word.

God’s Word Triumphs Over Darkness

Pastor Bennett Marona has had countless reasons to mourn. As a South Sudanese man in ministry, he knows what it means to persevere through suffering. He said:

Bennett speaks Baka, a language used by about 26,000 people. He began working in Bible translation in 1992, but civil unrest forced the Baka community to flee to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), putting the translation work at risk.

One night during their journey, gunfire erupted. As the crowd fled, Bennett heard a voice tell him to take a different route. Later, he learned that hundreds who had run the other way had been ambushed and killed.

Despite hardship, the Baka New Testament translation continued. When instability forced Wycliffe translators to relocate, Bennett and a fellow Baka rode bicycles for 200 miles to keep the project moving.

After more than 30 years, Bennett’s prayers were answered: Thousands of Baka speakers gathered to celebrate the dedication of the New Testament in their language.

“Now that the whole New Testament is out, thousands of Bakas are going to say, ‘Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!’” he said.

When the boxes of New Testaments were opened, hundreds rushed forward to get their copies. Bennett noted: “At that time, I forgot all the challenges I went through.”

Even though Bennett has experienced mourning, today he and the Baka people stand in victory. Unrest and suffering could not stop God’s Word from reaching them.

2. Romans 5:3-5 — Our pain has a purpose.

Hard times are often even harder when they feel pointless. But according to Paul in the Book of Romans, the struggles we face have a significant purpose: “We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love” (NLT).

Our difficulties may feel heavy, but their weight is designed to drive us into deeper intimacy with God, strengthening us and anchoring us to the steady hope of His love.

Selmira knows this firsthand. After experiencing unimaginable loss, she wrestled with suffering and searched for answers. But when she encountered Scripture in her language, she found the unshakable hope of Christ. Today she dedicates her life to sharing God’s Word with others.

Read Selmira’s powerful story of transformation and faith.

3. Proverbs 18:10 — God is our shelter.

Difficult times can leave us feeling exposed and unprotected. However God offers us security that isn’t dependent on our situation. Proverbs 18:10 says: “The name of the LORD is a strong fortress; the godly run to him and are safe” (NLT). God doesn’t promise that we’ll never experience pain; instead He gives much deeper comfort than our circumstances can provide.

Regardless of the chaos around or within us, the Lord’s name — which can also be translated as His “glory, reputation and identity” — offers shelter for the hearts and minds of His children. If God Himself is our refuge, nothing can threaten our ultimate safety.

The Kunama people have experienced this truth. Their peaceful way of life was shaken in the late 1990s when civil unrest broke out in Eritrea, a country in East Africa. Kunama people were forced to flee — some to nearby Ethiopia and some to Sudan where they lived in refugee camps (some for months and some for several years). Other Kunama people have been scattered across the globe. For most of them, returning home isn’t an option.

But God is at work through the Kunama diaspora! See how God is using Bible translation to bring hope and healing to them.

4. Psalm 56:8 — Our sorrow matters to God.

The psalmist David faced nearly constant hardship, from betrayal by friends and family to threats against his life. While he was being held captive by an enemy nation, he penned this prayer: “You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book” (NLT).

When we’re hurting we may feel like God is distant or distracted, but He’s described here in a profoundly tender, engaged and intimate way. God cared about David’s heartache enough to notice and remember each tear, and He cares about our sorrows with the same gentle intensity. Nothing we go through escapes His compassionate attention.

From Sorrow to Joy: Anik’s Story

Anik lived with a difficult illness, making it hard to provide for his family. Financial struggles weighed heavily on them, and sorrow filled their home.

But nearby, Anik noticed something different about another family facing similar hardships. Though they lacked material wealth, they were joyful. Every Sunday, Anik could hear their worship and heartfelt prayers — and to his surprise, they were praying for their neighbors, including him.

Amazed by their kindness, Anik asked them about the God they praised. They shared their greatest treasure with him: God’s Word in his language.

As Anik read about Jesus’ loving sacrifice, his heart was transformed. He placed his faith in Christ, and one by one, his family did the same. Their circumstances didn’t change overnight, but their hearts did.

“Today, we never call ourselves poor, because the love of the Lord God is with us,” Anik said.

Through Scripture in his own language, Anik found the unshakable joy and peace of Christ — the same comfort God offers to every hurting heart.

5. Romans 8:26-27 — The Holy Spirit prays on our behalf.

Sometimes our suffering is so intense that we can’t even find the words to pray. But our inability to form cohesive thoughts doesn’t frustrate God or derail His plan. The Holy Spirit takes our unspoken confusion and heartache to the Father, translating our tears into effective prayers.

“And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will” (NLT).

Just as the Holy Spirit intercedes for us, we can intercede for others — especially those still waiting for God’s Word in their language. When we pray Scripture, we align ourselves with God’s heart and join Him in His work among the nations.

Need help knowing what to pray? Read how you can use Scripture to guide your prayers for Bible translation.

6. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 — We have each other.

Not only do we have the companionship and comfort of the Holy Spirit in hard times, but we also have the chance to develop community with others: “All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us” (NLT).

As we endure difficulties, we can reach out to brothers and sisters in Christ who have experienced similar struggles, borrowing their strength and hope as we move forward. And as we begin to find our own footing on the path through suffering, we can turn around and offer comfort to those journeying behind us.

God’s Word doesn’t just transform our individual lives — it transforms entire communities too. Felix Kaibene, pastor and translator for the Niellim community in Chad, said:

“… Seeing the impact the Holy Scriptures have made on our community spiritually, socioeconomically and culturally causes us to bless God. Indeed, today we recognize that community transformation in how our way of life has changed: People are committed to hearing the Word of God and putting it into practice. The traditional ways of treating women and girls at home or in marriage are changing [and] the ways that farming or fishing produce is managed are also changing …”

Celebrate with the Niellim and two more communities who now have the New Testaments in their languages!

7. Revelation 21:3-4 — Our suffering will end in joy.

No matter how deeply we ache now, suffering has an expiration date: “I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, ‘Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them. He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever’” (NLT).

Our hard times won’t just get better — hardship will completely cease to exist someday! This passage isn’t wishful imagination. It’s an unshakeable promise of a real day when we’ll live with God and experience His complete restoration in heaven. There will be no more sin or brokenness, no more fear, loss or grief. There will just be freedom, joy and wholeness forever.

God’s loving hands have been around His children from the beginning of time, and His plan of victory and redemption through His Son has never wavered. Our path may lead through suffering for a while, but God is with His people every step of the way, tenderly caring for us, giving us refuge, growing our strength, hearing our hearts, drawing us into community and leading us toward complete wholeness. Until our permanent healing comes, we can continue to find the steady light of hope in His Word.

Hope and Joy in the Midst of Suffering

Deep in one of the world’s largest refugee settlements, an unexpected outbreak of joy took place.

The Keliko people, displaced from their homeland in South Sudan, faced the same hardships as their neighbors in Uganda’s Bidi Bidi refugee settlement. They endured food rations, overcrowded classrooms and the daily struggle for resources. But unlike many around them, they overflowed with joy.

Why? Because they had God’s Word in their language.

“We know that the Israelites went to stay in Egypt in exile and that they really suffered. And God cared for them and brought them back to their land,” said translator and pastor Ezekiah Dada. “So also we South Sudanese know … that God is there to take care of us, and God is there to bring us back to our land.”

For 33 years, the Keliko people longed for the Bible in their language.

The impact was undeniable — having God’s Word in their own language led many people to accept Christ. At a funeral, translator Isaac Kenyi sang a song based on Keliko Scriptures, and 20 people came to faith. Bishop Seme Nigo Abiuda preached from a translated passage, and 48 people received Jesus as their Savior.

Holding the newly printed Keliko New Testament, translator and pastor Enos Dada declared, “This is for salvation. … When you read [the words] it will guide you not to fall in sin. It is a safeguard. It is a shelter.”

Even as they worshipped under plastic tarps and branches, the Keliko understood James 1:2-5 in a way few others could. They had learned to count it all joy. They are not just surviving — they are flourishing, knowing that one day, God will wipe away every tear and restore all things. Until that day comes, His Word is their refuge, their strength and their unshakable hope.

Share the Light

Did you know that there are people around the world still waiting for the hope of God’s Word in their language?

These life-changing Bible verses offer profound comfort and spiritual strength in times of suffering by emphasizing the transformative power of God’s Word. Yet for many people worldwide without access to the Bible in a language that speaks to their heart, this hope is out of reach.

As you use these Scriptures to practice enduring faith and find comfort in hard times, pray for those who don’t yet have Scripture as you read one of the most hope-filled passages in the Bible: Romans 8. Soak in radiant truths like these reminders for resilience:

• Living in relationship with Jesus removes all condemnation from our lives (v. 1).
• The Holy Spirit sets us free from the control of sin and leads us to life and peace (vv. 5-6).
• We don’t need to fear, because God is our Father (v. 15).
• What we suffer now can’t compare to the glory that’s coming (v. 18).
• God transforms even the hardest things into tools for our ultimate good (v. 28).
• Absolutely nothing can separate us from the love of God (v. 38).

Having Scripture in your own language is important — it’s the way we can understand God’s love for us and His plan for our lives. It enables people to dive into God’s Word, cultivate enduring faith and cling to biblical hope.

Let’s pray for Bible translation efforts so that those still waiting for God’s Word in their language can experience Scripture’s transformative impact on their lives too.

Stop and think for a moment: When have you asked God to do something bigger than you could imagine? Something that you knew without a doubt He could do but wondered if He actually would?

Perhaps you asked God to provide an opportunity for you to step into your dream job, or begged Him to heal you or a loved one. Perhaps you prayed that God would bring peace to your community, your church or even your country, or you stepped out in bold faith with a vision to change the world.

As believers, we know in our heads that God can do it. We know He’s the same God who told Noah to build an ark, who parted the Red Sea, who rescued the Israelites time and time again and who ultimately sent His one and only Son, Jesus, to save the world from our sins. And we know that He’s the God who, even today at this very moment, continues to pour out His Spirit upon the earth in ways that go beyond what we can imagine or comprehend.

Recognizing that His Spirit is actively working for His ultimate glory and the good of His people around the world is what allows our head knowledge to fuse with our heart belief — our knowing that God can do something becomes a tangible trusting that He will accomplish His purposes.

Across the Bible translation movement, we are seeking to actively live out that balance of knowing and trusting in God, and one way we see Him moving is through the acceleration of Bible translation starting in communities around the world for the very first time.

A Look Back at 1999 and the Start of Vision 2025

In 1999, Wycliffe and several of our key partners were evaluating the pace of Bible translation. We estimated that with the ways we were working at that time, it would take another 150 years before a translation in every language was started. That was simply unacceptable!

So we asked God to help us rethink the way that we work. We asked Him to give us a fresh vision, to creatively solution how we could change the way we work, and to provide opportunities for greater collaboration so we could partner in new ways. And that’s when Vision 2025 was born: a God-sized vision to have a translation program in progress in every language still needing one by the year 2025. (Learn more about the history of this dream in Vision 2025: Then and Now.)

We knew this wasn’t going to be possible without God doing something incredible, and He has — throughout the last 25 years and continuing today! Let’s take a look.

A Look at Today and Progress Toward Vision 2025

What started off as a dream by a few key Bible translation organizations has grown into a multi-organizational effort! Around the world, partners have embraced Vision 2025 for themselves and are actively developing strategies to start Bible translation for the last remaining languages. And countries are achieving Vision 2025 at an unprecedented rate, with no signs of slowing down.

Let’s take a look at just a few of the projects underway in countries that have achieved Vision 2025 or are on their way:

• EXPLORACIÓN MAYANGNA | NICARAGUA

  Nicaragua has achieved Vision 2025! Going forward, the "Exploración Mayangna" project will build a foundation for local churches that have a vision for Bible translation to take ownership and responsibility of the work.

  >> PRAY that God will equip local churches and agencies with everything they need for Bible translation and engagement so that their communities can encounter Jesus through Scripture in the languages and formats that capture their hearts.

• SWEDISH SIGN LANGUAGE | SWEDEN

  Translation efforts for Swedish Sign Language occurred between 1998-2008, which resulted in a few Scripture portions being available to the Deaf in Sweden. However, awareness of and access to the translation has been limited. A new project — done in partnership with the Swedish Bible Society and Church of Sweden — will work toward providing the Swedish Deaf with their first translation of a Pauline Epistle. Many people have expressed their joy that the translation of the Bible in their language will start again!

  >> PRAY that this project will be a springboard to inspire continued support from local funders in Sweden, and that the translated Scriptures will be widely used by the Deaf community and bring transformation.

• JIE | SOUTH SUDAN

  The Jie project is an oral Bible translation project that will produce the first translation of the Bible in the Jie language! The community will provide a team of local translators, and people from partnering organizations will support them through checking and reviewing the translations for accuracy. Once the audio files are done, local churches plan to distribute them to their congregations through different audio formats.

  >> PRAY for local churches as they form small Bible study groups and organize teaching sessions using the newly translated Scriptures.

These are only a sampling of projects happening around the world. As of July 2024, a new Bible translation project is started, on average, every 15 hours. (For context, in 2019 the average was every 120 hours.)

Check out the latest stats to see a current overview of what countries have achieved Vision 2025!

A Look Ahead at the Future of Vision 2025

We initially established Vision 2025 as a benchmark goal that would fuel us to continually evaluate the way we work. It felt big — definitely too big without God doing more than we could ask or imagine — but we also sensed that God was asking us to step out in faithful obedience.

Today, achieving Vision 2025 actually feels like a possibility. We are seeing the global Church rise up and take ownership of the work, which is accelerating the pace in “only-God” ways. There is a tangible and almost overwhelming sense of excitement and momentum! And as of Sept. 1, we are officially at 985 remaining Vision 2025 languages that still need Bible translation to begin for the first time — the lowest number we’ve ever seen. This is something we praise God for, declaring that this is the result of His Spirit at work in and among His Church.

So, will we achieve Vision 2025 by the end of calendar year 2025? Honestly, we don’t know. But we do know that God will continue to draw people to Himself through Scripture in a language and format they clearly understand. And we will continue to wholeheartedly pursue a day when every man, woman and child is able to encounter Jesus personally through Scripture.

The truth is that Vision 2025 is just the starting line, and we are filled with anticipation of how God will continue to make His name known among the nations!

Whether giving through a donor-advised fund, through gift planning and more, there are a number of ways that you can practice living generously at any stage of life. Hear more about how you can support Bible translation now and for generations to come by stewarding your God-given resources.

God has entrusted us all with time, talents and resources that we can steward to further His Kingdom. All around the world today, God is raising up His Church and making His name known among the nations through Bible translation.

Two things last for eternity: God’s Word and people. You can be part of what God is doing in and through Bible translation today to help transform lives — for God’s glory and the good of His people!

Dottie believes that God created her for a purpose and has given her a long life so that she could use her time, talents and treasures to serve Him. What purpose has God created you for?

What is happening in Nigeria is an inspiring example of this: God is calling church leaders to do Bible translation and collaborate with one another. Hear more about how translation work is bringing these communities and churches together in unity.

Johnstone Ndunde, SIL area director of Anglo-Lusophone Africa, said it this way: “Bible translation as a sacred task doesn’t need to divide the Church, but to bring the Church together.”

Each September 30, Wycliffe celebrates an important day: Bible Translation Day. It’s a historic day when we pause and thank God for all the ways that He is at work in the world. Through your partnership in Bible translation — by praying, giving and advocating — you are a part of God’s great move to draw even more people to Himself through Scripture in a language they clearly understand.

As we look ahead to this year’s Bible Translation Day, here are a couple of stories about the impact that translated Scripture is having in the Chatino community in Mexico.

Transformation Through Scripture

Jaime is pastor and church planter, but until recently he didn’t use his language much in ministry. He hadn’t learned to read Chatino well, so he grew accustomed to using Spanish instead.

But things changed when he acquired an audio device preloaded with Chatino Scripture.

He listened while working in the fields. He listened every night when he got home. He listened as he traveled to speak at churches. He even used the audio device to share the gospel with others.

God’s Word in Chatino touched him in a way that Spanish could not.

“I am listening and paying attention to every detail of the narration,” he said. “Every day I fall more in love with the one who saved me.”

Praise God for the way He is working in Jamie’s life through translated Scripture!

A Reignited Faith

Floriberto had fallen away from his walk with the Lord. But he encountered God’s Word at a community gathering where they were testing Chatino Scripture drafts for accuracy, clarity and naturalness — and his faith was reignited.

Seeing Floriberto’s desire for more, team members gave him an audio device with recorded Scripture, and other believers gave him a Chatino New Testament. Project staff now are witnessing a real change in Floriberto.

A team member said, “He doesn’t miss the worship services. … He always comes with his New Testament in his hand, attentive to see the passages that are preached.”

By partnering in the Bible translation movement, you are helping more people like Pastor Jaime and Floriberto experience the life-changing power of God’s Word. And that has an eternal ripple effect: Imagine how many people these men will minister to in their families and communities!

Make a Difference in Lives Today

• Will and Estate Plan

  Is it time for you to finally start (or update) your will and estate plan? Wycliffe Foundation offers a complimentary will planning service to help you create a biblically-based will and estate design that honors God while helping you achieve your goals.

• Donor-Advised Fund (DAF)

  If you’re looking for an end-of-year deduction but want more time to make thoughtful giving decisions, consider a donor-advised fund (DAF). Our senior gift planning advisors can help you establish a DAF in your name with Wycliffe Foundation. You can make grants from your DAF now and in the future to support Bible translation as well as other ministries you care about.

• Charitable Gift Annuity

  Charitable Gift Annuities (CGAs) enable you to receive lifetime income payments and leave a legacy that supports Bible translation. And with new increased payment rates, your lifetime income benefits are even greater!

• Beneficiary Designation

  Donating part or all of your unused retirement assets, such as your IRA, 401(k), 403(b), pension or other tax-deferred plan is an excellent way to make a gift to Wycliffe Bible Translators. If you’re like most people, you probably will not use all of your retirement assets during your lifetime. You can make a gift of your unused retirement assets to help further our mission.

• IRA Charitable Rollover

  People age 70½ or older who own an IRA can make gifts directly from their IRA to charity. For many people, this is the best tax-wise way to give. An IRA rollover gift will not be included in your taxable income and may qualify for your required minimum distribution.

How can you make a difference in Bible translation work around the world — now and for generations to come?

Over the last few years, the face of Bible translation has changed in ways that only God could orchestrate. Let’s take a quick look back at Wycliffe’s history to get us started.

For more than 80 years, Wycliffe and like-minded organizations have been the ones to lead efforts to advance Bible translation around the world. But praise God, that’s changing!

Historically, Bible translation has been viewed as something only linguistic experts with degrees could do. But now local churches are playing a significant role in translation for their own communities, and that’s accelerating the pace of the work in incredible ways!

Madagascar: Embracing Partnership to Accelerate the Work

The Word of God first came to Madagascar in 1835 when it was translated into Malagasy. Since then, there has been some translation carried out in a few of the 23 language communities in the country, representing approximately 30 million people. But a few years ago, a group of more than 11 churches began working together to translate the Bible into four more languages. They asked for help in two ways: one, to consult on their materials for quality assurance, and two, to help train their people so they can become consultants who will then, in turn, train others to do quality assurance. Within 12 months, they drafted four full new Bibles — using 300 volunteer translators to do the work!

Serge Razafinjatoniary serves as a Bible translation leader in Anglophone and Lusophone Africa alongside his wife, Olivia. Serge said, “Madagascar has had this privilege of receiving God’s Word in the Malagasy language as early as 1835. We feel this responsibility to wake up and say, ‘How many more people groups are out there that we could participate with to get God’s Word into their languages? And we’ll do this with all the churches that will profess Christ, just in the same way they’re doing this here in Madagascar — all Christian churches combined, holding hands together. The vision is to have an exchange with the outside world.”

“God brings different people and players into the same scene,” Serge said. “We might as well ask God to leverage the gifts, talents and resources He’s entrusted in His children — through other organizations, churches and ministries — and pull that together around the same table to maximize not only on the production but on the distribution and the entire mission of God. Partnership is not plan B; it is plan A.”

Nigeria: Accomplishing a God-Sized Dream

Nigeria has historically been a country with a significant number of languages still needing Bible translation to begin. We call these countries or areas the “Big Five” — East Asia, Indonesia, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea and the global Deaf.

Two years ago, approximately 250 languages in Nigeria needed Bible translation to begin. But as of July 2024, Nigeria is officially off the Big Five list!

“What’s happening is a move of God,” said Jackson Vusaka, who also serves as a Bible translation leader in Anglophone and Lusophone Africa.

“Previously we’ve known that Bible translation has been the work of Bible agencies and that they’d take the lead in terms of resourcing and in terms of getting the work done. But of late we’ve seen God even touching the hearts of churches. … Church leaders are saying, ‘God has called us to do Bible translation. We don’t know how that’s going to look or how it’s going to be, but we know that God has called us and we want to do it!’”

And that’s exactly what’s happening across Nigeria. The significant drop in languages needing Bible translation to start — from 250 down to a few dozen — is unprecedented, not only in Nigeria but in the history of Bible translation! A God-sized dream is being accomplished. (Read more about the ways we’ve seen God move in Nigeria over the last two years!)

Jackson’s friend and colleague Johnstone Ndunde shared, “Bible translation is a tool in the hand of the Church. The Church wants to reach out to people, and so Bible translation is important to enable the church to do evangelism, to do discipleship, to grow the body of Christ in ways that it needs to be grown.”

“I’ve continued to see the Church rising in many other places and engaging in Bible translation like never before. And when we engage with the Church, the usability of the Scriptures becomes guaranteed. … The fact that the Scriptures can bring transformation is guaranteed.”

Johnstone continued, “I would like to see God bringing unity in the Church as they together engage in the work of Bible translation and work with organizations to bring the Word of God to the people, because the people are waiting to receive the Word of God in their language, and I think that as we see this happening in Africa, we will see a revival — a movement of God — that comes as a result of people having Scriptures they understand best.”

Working Together as the Body of Christ

God’s not only giving us a front row seat to see what’s happening, but He has extended a personal invitation to each of us to participate, however He might call us! Whether we partner through prayer, giving, advocacy or otherwise, we are all called to make disciples, for which Scripture is essential.

We are on the cusp of seeing Bible translation start for all languages still needing it. Join us in prayerfully asking God to do immeasurably more than we can imagine as He continues to pour out His Spirit upon the  Church.

Decades ago, Clarence Schipper set out to prove that God didn’t exist.

World War II had just ended and Clarence had seen too many atrocities on the battlefield. Even though he grew up in a Christian home, he couldn’t accept that a real God would allow anything like the war to happen. As he was finishing his Army deployment, he decided to quit Christianity.

But Clarence also wanted hard evidence to justify walking away from his faith. So he started reading the Bible.

“It was a bad idea,” he recalled, chuckling. “If you want to prove that God isn’t there, don’t pick up the Bible.”

He flipped through the pages, eventually reaching Hebrews 4:10-16. The phrase “… for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin” (Hebrews 4:15b, NLT) touched his soul.

Instead of providing the “proof” Clarence wanted, Scripture introduced him to his Savior.

A Lifetime of Service

Soon after his profession of faith, Clarence met and married Betty. The Schippers raised their family in prayer and echoed the Bible’s teachings in their lives. Even after they retired, they found themselves still itching to serve God’s Kingdom.

The couple had planned to move from Michigan to Florida to retire, but they quickly decided it wasn’t the life for them. They drove to their church’s mission center in Mississippi to see if they could serve there. Unfortunately, the mission center didn’t need volunteers. As they were leaving the building, a woman asked if the Schippers had considered volunteering for Wycliffe USA.

They hadn’t, but the couple decided to return to Michigan and ponder the issue. When they got home though, Betty’s sister greeted them with a letter — it was asking for Wycliffe volunteers.

Recognizing God’s call, the Schippers quickly wrote back to offer their skills. Five days later they got the reply that would start a 27-year volunteer journey: “Come on down. We could use you.”

The Schippers found their professional skills — Clarence as a tool and die maker and Betty as a registered nurse — were perfect for filling the varied needs of Bible translation work. They produced parts for ministry planes and kept missionaries in good health. Betty also repaired upholstery, fixing up hundreds of chairs for the SIL* auditorium.

During their service, the couple traveled across the country between their Michigan home, SIL in Arizona and JAARS in North Carolina. They formed relationships with missionaries working on Bible translation projects in Mexico, as well as with many others serving there.

Volunteer work gave the Schippers their longed-for opportunity to support and experience the global Church.

The couple only stopped volunteering when their children asked them to do so for their health. But the Schippers continued to support global Bible translation through donations. Now at 100 years old, Clarence praises God for His guidance through the decades.

“If I were 18 and the Lord said to me, ‘Write the most exciting act of life you can possibly think of.’ Well, He has given me more than I could ever write or imagine.”

*Our primary partner.

Meet Daryl and Sun Young! They have served with Wycliffe both overseas and in the U.S. Throughout their journey they have been supported as they follow God’s lead to serve; Daryl especially remembers how God has provided for their children’s education.

Parents might fear that their children will miss out on opportunities and the chance to receive a high-quality education. But as Daryl looked back on raising three children overseas while serving with Wycliffe, he said, “That has not been the case at all.”

Moving overseas was a major decision to make, but the Youngs discovered their children would be able to choose from several education options. The family decided on a school that conducted lessons in French, the majority language in Cameroon where they served. “Our kids became bilingual. Daryl said, … [They] got [a] strong foundation in elementary [school].”

Later, the kids had the opportunity to attend Rain Forest International School. Daryl said, “[The school] provided a very solid and Christ-centered middle and high school education, preparing them well for college-level work.” He added, “We [feel] super blessed about that.”

“As we had three kids entering college, and even years where all three have been in higher education, Wycliffe has really blessed our family,” he said.

Daryl concluded: “For those who are thinking about [education] as a possible challenge, just know that God provides and where God leads, God feeds.

In Nigeria, God is equipping His Church to start Bible translation for the remaining languages in the country that still need it. And in Madagascar, local college students and members of a church drafted four full Bibles in four different languages over the course of four years. Praise God for the way He is at work in Africa and around the world!

Meet Stephanie! She first served with Wycliffe about 10 years ago when she participated in several short-term opportunities in Brazil.

She said, “The Lord had to pass me through different seasons of serving in different capacities, including serving as a missions pastor for seven years.”

Then in 2021, as Stephanie prayed over the possibility of making a ministry transition, she felt that God was leading her into a new season.

In her role, Stephanie has the opportunity to encourage churches in the U.S. to be part of what God is doing through Bible translation. She said, “It is a wonderful opportunity to be this bridge between the Church and the work of Bible translation … and truly speak to the hearts of pastors and church leaders and mobilize the Church to get involved in His amazing work.”

Right now God is using the global Church to impact the Bible translation movement in ways that we have never seen before in the history of the world!

Stephanie said, “The Church around the world is … leading the work of Bible translation so that people … can have access to God’s Word in a language that they understand.”

Wycliffe acts as a catalyst in the global Bible translation movement, engaging with hundreds of partners around the world. Stephanie said: “We believe that through prayer, through giving, through sending and through engaging in the work and in the mission that God established for the church, we will continue to push God’s Word forward until all the nations and language communities of the world have access to His Word and are transformed.”

If you grew up in the Christian community, you likely know the song, “Jesus Loves Me.” (And if you’re like us, the tune is now running through your head!)

If you’re not familiar with the song, it’s based on a poem written in 1860 by a woman named Anna Bartlett Warner. The poem was later turned into a hymn by William Batchelder Bradbury, and it still lives on today.

The first verse and refrain go like this:

• “Jesus loves me — this I know, for the Bible tells me so.
• Little ones to Him belong — They are weak, but He is strong.
• Yes, Jesus loves me. Yes, Jesus loves me. Yes, Jesus loves me — The Bible tells me so!”

The age-old truth declared in these simple words is one that even children can embrace.

But what if you’ve never heard the song? Or more specifically, what if you’ve never learned about Jesus and been given the chance to learn of His love for you?

That’s the case for many communities around the world — they do not yet know that Jesus loves them because they don’t have Scripture that communicates that truth. It’s why Wycliffe is so passionate about working alongside the global body of Christ to advance Bible translation and work together so people can encounter God through His Word.

A Visual Language Needs a Visual Bible

There are 70 million Deaf people in the world, and only 2% have been introduced to Jesus in a language and format they clearly understand — their own unique sign language. Their lives are rooted in a distinct culture, sense of identity and language, with more than 380 known sign languages in use. Yet, the only complete Bible in sign language is the American Sign Language Version (ASLV).

Sign language is a visual language, different from any spoken or written language. God desires to communicate His love for His people in the language that best captures their hearts, and for Deaf communities around the world, that requires Scripture that is presented naturally, clearly and visually.

The Story of Jesus in American Sign Language

Today God is communicating His love in new and exciting ways for the American Sign Language community as they celebrate an incredible milestone — seeing the story of Jesus come to life through film.

Our partner, Deaf Missions, produced the film and describes it this way: “For the first time in history, a Deaf audience will have the unique opportunity to experience the story of Jesus presented as a feature film entirely in American Sign Language.

“JESUS: a Deaf Missions film” will take you on a journey with Jesus and His disciples. Witness His miracles, His transformative power and His challenges to the religious elite in a time of high tension under Roman rule in Judea. The Jews were anticipating a Messiah, but Jesus was not what they expected. What the religious leaders orchestrated to be Jesus’ end instead changed the world forever. Immerse yourself in Jesus’ love as He offers hope, forgiveness and eternal life. Don’t miss this historic film — produced for Deaf by Deaf — with a cast fluent in American Sign Language.”

The film debuted in theaters on June 20, 2024. Whether you are Deaf, know someone who is Deaf, are learning or fluent in American Sign Language or simply want to step into the shoes of our Deaf brothers and sisters, check out the film for yourself! It’s an opportunity for us all to see the love of Jesus on display in sign language and give us new eyes to see that transformational moment of encountering Him personally.

So what are you waiting for?

Together we have the opportunity to celebrate alongside the American Sign Language community that they are able to see Jesus’ love on display for them in a compelling and heart-capturing way!

Sometimes life is sweet.

Your job is going well. You feel great. Your relationships are wonderful. You’re savoring the sweet goodness of life and it’s easy to say, “God is good!”

But sometimes life tastes bitter because of difficult circumstances, loss and disappointment. Is God still good? You know, in your head, that He is. But you're just not feeling it.

How can you be practically assured of God’s goodness and lean into that truth when life is hard?

What is goodness?

Before we go further, let’s talk about what we mean by “goodness.” It’s easy to say that a fancy car or a gourmet meal is “good” but that’s just a relative rating to personal taste. Goodness is not meant to be subjective. It’s a description for someone of “favorable character” or something that is right, wholesome, dependable and sound.*

So now that we know what true goodness means, how do we define God’s goodness?

What is God’s goodness?

The goodness that defines and describes God's character in Scripture is only achievable by Him. Jesus said, “Only God is truly good” (Mark 10:18b, NLT). Here are a few of the ways that God’s goodness is defined in the Bible:

• God is true. God’s goodness is not just “right” for certain situations. His goodness is the immovable, unchangeable, infallible truth (John 14:6, Revelation 15:3).
• God is pure. Unlike our earlier definition of goodness, God is not merely “wholesome” like a kids movie. God’s goodness is absolutely pure and holy (1 Samuel 2:2).
• God is faithful. God’s goodness goes beyond human or even supercomputer dependability. God’s goodness means He is always faithful in spite of any possible circumstance or human failure to comply with His will (Deuteronomy 7:9).
• God is the source. God is not “well-made” like a handcrafted Stradivarius violin — He is the Creator of the universe and everything in it (Genesis 1:1, John 1:3).

Eight ways to taste God’s goodness even on a bad day

Bad days happen. When you’re faced with a salty person or a sour situation, these eight practices can help you break through the bitterness and taste God’s goodness:

1. Give thanks to God, our ultimate good.

Psalm 136:1 says, “Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever” (NLT). Giving thanks to our good God immediately takes our minds off of ourselves and our circumstances. In that moment of thanks there’s an incredible realization that you — with limited goodness — are unconditionally loved by a God who's always completely good and has “plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11, NLT).

At Wycliffe, we regularly practice gratitude for all God is doing to move Bible translation forward. And we’re thankful for people like you who step in to join this global movement.

2. Enjoy God’s good creation.

In Genesis 1:31, God declared everything He had made as good. The beauty of His creation stirs us when we enjoy a beautiful sunset, walk a wooded trail, spot an eagle, smell a flower or taste a ripe berry off the vine. Getting outside and marveling at what God has created for your pleasure resets your heart and is even scientifically proven to even help heal a troubled mind. Psalm 104 is a great reminder of God’s glory in creation, so reflect on that while you enjoy it!

We’ve been all over the world and have witnessed the beauty of God’s creation and the amazing people He loves, like the Wanca Quechua church in the Andes Mountains of Peru.

3. Count your good things (aka blessings).

If you’ve ever moved and had to pack, you probably realized that you own a lot of stuff. While things alone can’t bring you happiness, they can show you that you have a lot for which you can thank God. James 1:17 tells us that everything “good and perfect” comes from God.

So look around you, beyond your stuff at your loved ones, your church, your community. It’s amazing to realize that we have blessings, even in trials.

To say that chocolate is good is an understatement! Meet a community in Ghana that grows cocoa but has found something better to savor: God speaking to them in their language.

Read the Siwu’s Story >>

4. Hope in God’s eternal goodness.

What a relief it is to know that our broken bodies and world isn’t all there is! Because of Jesus, you can spend eternity with God enjoying the sweetness of His goodness. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 lays it out clearly: “That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever” (NLT). That’s not just a good outcome, it’s the best!

5. Be good to others.

Another way to take our eyes off ourselves is to help others. Make someone else’s day: pay it forward in the coffee line, smile at a stranger, compliment a coworker, volunteer for God’s Kingdom. It’s amazing how it makes you feel when you’ve made a difference in someone else’s life! Hebrews 13:16 actually commands us to do good to others; it’s not just a one-off request, it’s a godly lifestyle!

The Keliko of South Sudan have known incredible hardship living as refugees away from their homeland, but they have discovered the secret of joy in trials.

6. Keep your eyes on the Good Shepherd.

The Bible compares people to sheep, which isn’t the most complimentary comparison. We’re not the smartest, we can’t protect ourselves, sometimes we stink and we tend to wander into danger. By keeping your eyes on Jesus, our Good Shepherd, we stay on track. He teaches us, protects us from the enemy, sanctifies us and guides us. He’s capable of shepherding us, our friends, our loved ones and everyone on the planet who trusts in Him.

Wycliffe’s founder, Cam Townsend, was reminded of Jesus’ parable about the shepherd who sought the one lost sheep. So, he decided that we wouldn’t overlook small communities that need the Bible in a language they can understand.

7. Pray through the goodness of Scripture.

The promises in God’s Word sustain us when there are no “answers” in the moment. Bad news — or just reading the news — can be so discouraging that it’s hard to know what even to ask God. When your spirit is groaning inside of you and you just don’t have the words, you can simply pray Scripture back to God.

8. Share the Good News.

Find opportunities to share the gospel with those around you. As you share the hope of eternal life, you’ll be filled with the joy of your own salvation. Around the world today, so many people are unaware of the Good News, and millions are still waiting for a single word of Scripture in a language that touches their hearts. You can change a life for eternity by helping churches translate the Bible for their communities!

See what happens in churches when the Word is presented in the local language.

Life circumstances aren’t always sweet. But thankfully our God is good and he makes life sweet even in the hardest of times.

We pray these eight practices will encourage you and keep you tasting God’s goodness every day. And we’d like to invite you to join us to pray for men, women and children around the world who are waiting for the sweetness of Scripture in their language.

*Source: Merriam-Webster

Hear more about how God is at work through local churches in Madagascar.

One man in Nigeria experienced a dramatic transformation that impacted not only himself but his family and community as well. Watch to see how his community responded!

Meet Brandon and Cat Samuel! In 2020 Brandon found himself in a season of prayer and discernment.

At first, the Samuels thought Brandon should go back to school. But after a few classes, they wondered if God had a different plan for their family.

Brandon sought out advice and guidance on what next steps to take by speaking to a trusted mentor. The mentor suggested that Brandon consider a career in ministry. So Brandon took to the internet and researched unique careers in ministry that would fit his gifts and skills. That’s how he came across Bible translation work!

Brandon and Cat were excited to learn more about what God was doing around the world through Bible translation. Brandon said, “The reality that there were so many people that still need a Bible in their own language became a conviction for us.”

Cat agreed: “Our hearts were yearning for others to be able to experience God’s Word just as we had. We had been transformed by His Word and we wanted others to be transformed as well.”

Doors began to open as the couple decided to serve with Wycliffe in 2021.

Brandon explained, “Some of [our kids] are homeschooled, some of them are [in] public school. We also serve at our local church, and we also host a small group at our home every week. With all of this going on in our lives, we are so appreciative of how Wycliffe helps us and comes alongside us to help us balance our work and our family time.”

All around the world, people are encountering Jesus in the languages and formats they understand. And when Jesus speaks your language, you can’t help but walk away changed!

Every time a community receives Scripture — whether a few chapters, select books, a New Testament or a full Bible — it’s a time to celebrate. That’s because Scripture is foundational to a healthy, thriving Church. It equips us for evangelism, discipleship, church planting and more. When people experience it for the first time in their language, it emphasizes that God knows them and values who they are, including their culture and the unique ways they reflect His character and creativity to the world around them.

We invite you to join us in celebrating with communities all around the world who are now able to engage with God’s Word personally, including those below! Please pray with us for hearts to be captured and lives transformed — for His glory and the good of all His people.

Eastern Slovak (Carpathian) Romani | Slovakia

More than 740 languages — out of the 7,000+ known languages spoken or signed around the world — have the full Bible. Praise God that the Eastern Slovak Romani are now included in that number!

Translation and publication of the full Bible into Eastern Slovak (Carpathian) Romani was made possible through faithful prayers and partnership. The vision for the translation originated in the early 2000s when the “JESUS” film was translated into Romani and shown in Roma settlements.

The New Testament was completed by volunteers with The Word for the World who worked to translate it over seven years. Then Seed Company sponsored a team of nationals to translate the Old Testament full-time over an additional eight years. The faithful work of these teams culminated in the dedication of the complete Bible on Dec. 10, 2023! Approximately 500 Roma, along with Slovak and international guests, gathered to celebrate through praise and worship, messages, prayer, readings in Romani and a presentation of certificates of appreciation.

The Bibles were then distributed, including USB keys with audio recordings done by Faith Comes By Hearing. The dedication emphasized Jesus' revelation through His Word and gratitude for the collective effort of the body of Christ in the project's completion.

Join us in celebrating with the Roma people and praying that God’s Word — now available in visual, audio and written form — will continue transforming the lives of everyone in their community.

Matigsalug | Philippines

On Nov. 10, 2023, the Matigsalug community in the southern Philippines gathered together to celebrate the dedication of their own full Bible. Scripture portions were read — some quoted from memory — and groups performed songs and interpretive dances.

When Bible sales opened, more boxes of Bibles had to be brought out for the crowds! The mayor’s office had generously donated funds so that Bibles could be given for free to those who could not afford them. This involvement from the wider community and support of local authorities was a great encouragement to the translation team.

Praise God that the Matigsalug community now has the full counsel of God’s Word — everything from Genesis to Revelation — in their own language!

Simbari | Papua New Guinea

On Sept. 21, 2023, the Simbari New Testament of Papua New Guinea was dedicated! God’s power was evident in every aspect of the Bible dedication ceremony. As the people in attendance heard God’s Word being read from their new Bible, many responded out loud and applauded with joy. Jesus’ name was lifted up, and many in the crowd heard the gospel clearly for the very first time.

One Simbari speaker talked about how the cover of their new Bible is similar in color to the traditional bark cape that they carry with them everywhere they go and use for covering themselves. He talked about the importance, too, of taking God’s Word with them everywhere they go — and that its truths should cover every area of their lives.

Join us in celebrating with the Simbari community and praying that, through the New Testament, many people would encounter Jesus and walk away completely changed by His love for them.

Celebrate Scripture in Your Own Life

Now it’s your turn! How can you celebrate Scripture in your own life?

We have the joy and privilege of not only having access to God’s Word personally, but of being a part of seeing others get to experience that joy for themselves. Together we can work toward providing this to all people in all languages. What an incredible day it will be when we see the fulfillment of Revelation 7:9, where a crowd — too great to count! — from every nation, tribe, people and language will be standing before the throne, worshipping Jesus.

I keep three glass jars in my office. One is full of red beads, the other is mostly full of yellow and the last one has a small layer of green. The red beads represent 80% of the world’s population — the number of people who have access to the whole of God’s Word in their language. The second jar contains yellow beads for those that have either a Bible translation in process, some part of Scripture available or an entire New Testament.

And then there’s the jar of green beads.

Representing only 3% of the population, this last jar is a visual reminder of the men, women and children who still do not have access to God’s Word in their language. Though this number can feel daunting, I’m encouraged by how God is inspiring and equipping local churches in furthering Bible translation efforts around the world.

The Shifting Role of Local Churches Around the World

Local churches play a critical role in Bible translations because they see the need within the community that sparks a desire for others to know God. Plainly put — the translating process becomes personal. When a local church is involved in translation, participation leads to active use and life transformation.

In a recent study, YouVersion — a nonprofit digitally connecting people all over the world to God’s Word — reported daily usage of the Bible increased by 20% in 2023 compared to the previous year, confirming a growing number of people interacting with the Bible each day. What we see in our translation work correlates with this data.

God has uniquely positioned the local church to share His Word with their neighbors. A wonderful example is in Madagascar, where a large local church has started to translate the Bible and asked Wycliffe Bible Translators to play a supporting role. They desire to reach their entire island and then take God’s Word to other island nations in the Indian Ocean and on to East Africa. How beautiful are the feet of those who bring Good News (Isaiah 52:7)!

A New Role for Bible Translators

As Bible translators, our goal has never been simply to translate the Bible for its own sake. Though we’ve been tremendously blessed throughout our existence by the ability to offer God’s Word to millions of people, what we truly want is for lives to be transformed through a relationship with Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

With local churches increasingly leading the way in translation work, translation agencies have a different role to play now.

Through our network and years of experience, we’ve been able to develop a set of materials that breaks Scripture down into digestible sections. A process of familiarization, internalization and articulation was created so people groups with a minority language could have an oral Bible translation. We also coach and advise, and have even started to translate our translation resources.

Recently in Nigeria, two lead pastors came up to us with appreciation but said, “With or without you, we’re going to do this,” referring to translating the Bible into their language. They wanted Wycliffe to partner with them, but their call from God was clear: The translation was their ministry and their responsibility.

What a joy to see God move in such a powerful way! What a privilege it is to be able to come alongside them to help them carry out the call of God on their lives.

Challenging the Role of Churches in the West

For decades, the role of the Western church in Bible translation was to send workers out to do the work. This has contributed to the fact that the epicenter of the global Church has now shifted to the South and East. Following this trend, Bible engagement is decreasing in the West and North, but it’s increasing in other areas of the world. All of this sets up churches in the West to play a supportive role as others take the lead in translation efforts.

There’s a reason why the small number of green beads in my jar hasn’t changed much in recent years. They represent the areas where Christians are highly persecuted, are small in number and where the people are under severe economic stress and extreme political unrest. Only God can make a way in these areas, and I want to challenge individuals in the U.S. to support Bible translation efforts through consistent and fervent prayer — it’s the most important way you can partner with us in this work.

Compared to the red and yellow beads on my shelf, the green jar looks almost empty. We are reaching so many with God’s Word, but there’s more work to do. God has gifted His local church to do this work — both globally and from right where you are.

What’s a passage of Scripture that really impacted you?

Maybe it was a meaningful parable, an inspiring Old Testament story or a Scripture that comforted you when you needed it. God promises us that His Word will impact those who encounter it and accomplish His will:

People worldwide are experiencing transformation by encountering Jesus through Scripture in a language that touches their hearts. Today God is on the move to make Himself known to every person, in every language through His Word. And when He does, their lives change in incredible ways!

When Scripture is being translated, it’s tested in communities. Those first words people hear, see in sign language or read are often so relatable that they’re deeply moved.

In fact, it can be a life-changing experience. Meet a few people from an array of countries, see their transformation when they encountered these life-changing Bible verses in their language.

1. Luke 7:11-17: Jesus Raises a Widow’s Son

Although the majority of the Nyika in Tanzania identify as Christian, they don’t have God’s Word in a language they clearly understand, so most church services are taught in Swahili and use Swahili Scripture. This affects the whole congregation’s grasp of the biblical message — but it especially impacts women and young children who almost exclusively speak Nyika.

When the Nyika translation team began working on the Gospel of Luke, the community was excited, and their excitement only grew when portions of the Bible were tested in villages and churches.

Because the Nyika people prefer oral communication over written communication, the translated passages were produced in an audio format.

When people gathered around to listen to Luke 7:11-17 — the passage where Jesus raises a widow’s dead son to life — read aloud, a pastor noticed the depth of the group’s emotions. The people felt the widow’s sadness and viewed her as someone from their community.

Many had heard this biblical account before but had never been this moved. Praise God that He is reaching people just like the Nyika through His Word.

Think about …

What passage of Scripture has moved you, emotionally? And can you imagine what it would feel like to hear it aloud for the first time in your own language?

Pray …

That more people who use oral communication will experience God’s love and compassion for them when they hear His Word in their language.

2. James 3:3-5: Controlling Our Words

Colombian Sign Language is the official sign language for Deaf people in Colombia, and more than 554,000 people use it. A sign language translation team there is eager for Deaf Colombians to be able to access important biblical truths in a format they clearly understand.

God is already using His translated Word in Colombian Sign Language to transform Deaf Colombians like Edward.

Edward strives to reflect Christlikeness in his behavior, and the significance of keeping a tight rein on his words dawned on him while he was watching a video of James 3:3-5 in Colombian Sign Language:

“We can make a large horse go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth. And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong. In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire” (NLT).

“Watching this reminded me [of the importance of] controlling what I say, just like a horse harness or a boat with a fin keel,” Edward noted. “It is so important to avoid offending people or signing anything in a bad way.”

Edward appreciated this biblical admonition. “I’m thankful for the reminder and how the Lord has changed my life.”

Think about …

What’s a Scripture verse or story that convicted you? What would it be like to learn about God’s truth and instructions for the first time in your language?

Pray …

For the ongoing sign language Bible translation work that is happening around the world so Deaf men, women and children can know Jesus through Scripture.

3. John 1:1: The Word Became Flesh

As several Ndokwa people walked down the streets of their community in Nigeria, they heard an unfamiliar sound.

A man was reading aloud from John 1:1:

The voice captured their attention. They recognized his words as Scripture, but something was different.

Normally they heard the Bible read in another language that’s spoken in the region. But this man was reading in Ndokwa, their own language.

Curious, the people stopped to find out what was happening. An Ndokwa Bible translator was reading a draft of the Gospel of John to a group of people and asked for feedback. He wanted to ensure the meaning of the text was understood clearly by Ndokwa speakers. As he read, the Scripture attracted people nearby who joined the discussion.

Some children who were listening began to ask the translator questions about what he was reading. Meanwhile the adults were delighted to discover that God’s Word was being translated into their language. “When will it be finished?” they asked.

Others also responded with joy. On a different occasion, a young woman’s eyes lit up as she listened to a portion of the Gospel of Luke in her language. It seemed as if the Bible was coming home to her heart.

“Is this in the Bible?” she asked. The Ndokwa translator who was reading Scripture to the woman and her daughter nodded.

The woman couldn’t remember hearing the story before. Although she was familiar with Scripture, this was the first time she heard it in her language. After listening to the portions of God’s Word in Ndokwa, both mother and daughter decided to follow Christ!

Praise God that the Ndokwa New Testament is currently being printed! As God’s Word is made available in Ndokwa, pray that many people — just like this woman and her daughter — will also discover the joy of the Lord for the first time. Praise God for His faithfulness to His people!

Think about …

Is there someone in your life that you’re praying will encounter God through His Word? How can you share the joy of Scripture with them?

Pray …

That more Ndokwa people will continue to be amazed at God’s immense love for them when they encounter the printed New Testament in their language.

4. Romans 13:12: Preparing for Jesus’ Return

Clever fought back tears.

He sat alongside his Sihuas Quechua translation colleagues, considering what he’d just read in Romans. For Clever and many others in the room, this was the first time they’d ever encountered this book of the Bible. The moment felt sacred.

Clever reflected particularly on Romans 13:12 (NLT):

He felt the urgency of turning from sin and preparing for Jesus’ return. He could barely get the words out as he shared with the others: “This message burns like fire in my soul.”

Then another translator, Diomi, spoke up. He noted his growing admiration for the Apostle Paul, who wrote Romans and cared for many budding churches.

“We are doing this too,” Diomi said. “As a father, I am teaching my children. When we are humble before God and good followers of Jesus, this is good for us and it is good in God’s eyes. Who would I be, what would I be like, if I had not been involved in this translation?”

These reflections encouraged the team members, who are excited to see how the Lord continues to work in the hearts of the Sihuas Quechua translators. Praise God for the transforming power of His Word!

Think about …

Is there a Scripture that “burns like fire” in your own soul? What’s a way you can share that Scripture with someone else this week?

Pray …

That God’s Word would continue to impact peoples’ hearts and lives just like it did for Clever and Diomi.

5. Matthew 27:32-56; Mark 15:21-41: Jesus’ Crucifixion and Death

Leonard Bolioki understands just how powerful translated Scripture is. During a Good Friday service at his church in Cameroon, he began to read the story of Jesus’ crucifixion. In previous years, the congregation had heard the story in French. But this year was the first time it was being read in Leonard’s own language, Yambetta.

As he read the story, the congregation was stilled by the words. Then a few of the older women began to weep. After the service, they approached Leonard and demanded to know where he found the story.

“We have never heard anything like it before!” they said. “We didn’t know there was someone who loved us so much that He was willing to suffer and die like that — to be crucified on a cross to save us!”

Leonard showed them the story in his French New Testament and told them it was the story the congregation heard every year during Holy Week. But the women insisted that they had never heard it before.

That’s what truly motivated Leonard to translate the Scriptures into Yambetta. He wanted the Bible to be available in a language they truly understood.

Think about …

There are Scripture passages that many people know — like the story of Jesus’ birth, His death and resurrection that come up often around Christmas and Easter, respectively. Now imagine that you experienced those stories for the first time in your language. What emotions would bubble up within you?

Pray …

That everyone will be able to understand Jesus’ entire story — from birth and life to death and resurrection — in their language so they can believe in Him.

Think about the Scripture passages that have touched your heart deeply. Maybe it was a psalm that brought you peace, a miracle of Jesus that amazed you or a passage from Paul’s letters that gave you guidance. Just like the stories we’ve shared from Tanzania, Colombia, Nigeria, Peru and Cameroon, accessing God’s Word in your own language can be life-changing.

Isaiah 55:11 tells us that God’s Word will always achieve His purposes. We’ve seen this happen as people encounter Scripture in a language and format that touches their heart — their lives are transformed!

Think about how you can share the Scripture that has impacted you with others around the world. Consider how you might journey with us. Whether it’s through prayer, financial support, or getting involved in Bible translation efforts, you can make a difference.

Together we can help bring the life-changing power of God’s Word to everyone in a language they clearly understand.

Olivia Razafinjatoniary was asked to lead door-to-door evangelism efforts in a Tsimihety community in Madagascar, sharing the gospel with people there. But there was one issue: Olivia was from another region and didn’t speak any Tsimihety.

As Olivia knocked on the door to a house, she encountered a woman who was initially resistant to the gospel message. But neither the woman nor Olivia had any idea that God was about to do something incredible.

Wycliffe’s mission is to serve with the global body of Christ to advance Bible translation and work together so people can encounter God through His Word. You can download this video on Vimeo.

Meet David Heath! When David was in Bible college, he heard a special guest speaker. David said, “It was kind of surprising — he just started listing off a bunch of things that God might be leading people into.” When the speaker mentioned Bible translation, David immediately felt as if God was inviting him to contribute to Bible translation work. So he prayed and talked with others about how he thought God might be directing him.

He remembered, “It was so beautiful how God confirmed [how He was leading] through my family, through my friends that knew me well and also [when I was] actually going through the Wycliffe training.”

Since then, David has had the opportunity to participate in what God is doing in His church in West Africa.

“We can … learn a lot about God and about who we are when we interact with our brothers and sisters from other cultures.”

One of the things David is most excited about is seeing the local communities he works alongside access Scripture in a variety of formats. He said, “Audio Bibles are very simple devices that have a solar panel on the back.

[In one language] we have the whole New Testament on one of these. … People can listen to [Scripture] … even before it gets to the point of being printed.”

Not only does the audio format help during the translation process, but it also allows people to access God’s Word while literacy work is developing in their community so they don’t have to wait to be transformed by Scripture. David expressed, “That’s really exciting for me.”

For nearly 30 years, David has seen lives transformed when people encounter Scripture in a language and format they clearly understand.

Before Jesus ascended to heaven, He gave His disciples a final command: “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19, NLT). He also told them, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere — in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8, NLT).

In the months and years following, believers did just that — they told people about Jesus everywhere, increasingly expanding how far the gospel went forth. Today, we are living in a season where we are seeing people learning about Jesus truly from the ends of the earth!

And they’re not just learning about Him, but their hearts are being captured by His Word. They are then, in turn, becoming witnesses of Jesus in their communities, countries and even entire regions. The gospel is going forth and God’s global mission is expanding!

A Shift in the Bible Translation Movement

For more than 80 years, Wycliffe and SIL, a primary partner, have worked with like-minded organizations to lead efforts in advancing Bible translation around the world. Until recently, Bible translation had been viewed as something that only experts with degrees could do.

But praise God, that’s changing!

And they don’t want to wait for the work to start; they want to start it now. Local churches are playing a significant role in Bible translation for their own communities, and that’s accelerating the pace of the work.

The Indian Deaf community is just one example where they initiated translation work for themselves. Local churches started making videos of a pastor reading in English and signing Indian Sign Language simultaneously. They then posted the videos (take a look!) on social media and WhatsApp groups. This Deaf translation team is composed largely of Deaf signers, Deaf linguists and Deaf video editors, and they have now translated more than 14 books!

Binu Alexander serves with Global Partnerships, a multiorganizational collaboration that is engaging with leaders from the global Church in the Bible translation movement. He shared, “[Deaf] churches are going to do it. They’re not asking for permission; they’re inviting us to participate with them. We would rather support them and help them do a good job than to tell them that we won’t help them and leave them to do it on their own.”

Another exciting example is in Nigeria, a country that has historically had a significant number of languages that needed Bible translation to begin. But that has recently changed!

Two years ago, approximately 250 Nigerian languages still needed Bible translation to begin. Today, plans are in place to begin work on all but a few dozen. This significant drop is directly related to local ownership of the work as we see a God-sized dream becoming reality.

In these examples — and many more like them — local church leaders are sharing that they will do this work with or without us. But they’d rather do it with us! They trust that the training, materials, tools and financial support that Wycliffe and our partners can provide will equip them to accomplish the work.

An Invitation to Join God’s Global Mission

Jesus’ final command to His disciples is being advanced in new and exciting ways. As local churches around the world rise up and take ownership of the work for their own communities, Wycliffe transitions to the critical role of catalyst. Decades of expertise strategically position us to support local leaders in accomplishing their vision through technology, resources and funding, advancing the mission while empowering communities.

You are invited — and called by Jesus Himself! — to be part of this work too, advancing the Great Commission through praying, giving and advocating for the work of Bible translation around the world. Join the movement and help us say “yes” every time a local church invites us to join them in seeing God’s Word translated into a language and format that captures the hearts of people in their communities.

When Susan and David Ryder got married, all they wanted to do was to share the gospel message with the nations. But the path that God planned for them wasn’t quite what they envisioned.

Like many who are drawn to the mission field, the Ryders wanted to be the feet on the ground. They yearned to form relationships with people who didn’t know Jesus and share His love with them. They tried many times to go abroad, but all their efforts hit roadblocks. Susan and David began to consider that they might have a different role to play.

The deciding factor was when Susan had a severe allergic reaction to immunizations that a ministry worker would need. Working overseas was no longer feasible. At that point, the Ryders felt God was leading them to support the Great Commission with their finances instead of their labor.

So the couple embraced that calling. Since they were both working, they decided to give Susan’s entire salary to missions and live solely on David’s income.

The Lord was gracious to the Ryders. They always had enough and there was never a point where they couldn’t give financially. Though David developed kidney cancer and went to be with Christ in 2013, Susan continues their shared work.

A Link in the Chain

For nearly 40 years, Susan’s income resourced Wycliffe’s Bible translation efforts. Through this partnership, the couple developed strong friendships with translation staff, gained insight into people groups without Scripture and learned about the challenges of the mission field. They prayed for and wrote to missionaries frequently — becoming a critical part of the ministry.

“Often a person comes to Christ as a result of a series of experiences,” Susan said. “I’m just grateful that we’ve had this road and this opportunity to be a link — part of the chain that helps people know the Lord.”

One of the efforts dear to Susan’s heart is the Bafut translation project in Cameroon. Through her financial support, she’s formed close relationships with two translation team members, Joseph and Becky. She saw the skills, perseverance and compassion they’ve shown in their work and how tirelessly they’ve labored to produce more Bafut Scripture for their people. The Bafut people now have Old Testament books in their language and are learning more about God’s love and comfort during difficult times.

A Heart for Scripture

After David’s passing, Susan found solace and strength in the Lord’s presence, His Word and His people.

Because of the Ryders’ giving, people groups around the world are experiencing Scripture in languages and formats that speak to their hearts. And, as Susan receives stories of communities celebrating God’s Word in their languages, she praises Christ for enabling her to be a link in His Kingdom’s work.

The Isnag community in the northern Philippines celebrated something many had dreamed about for decades: They held the full Bible, translated into their language, in their hands. It was a journey more than 60 years in the making — and one that the people of Virginia Beach Community Chapel (VBCC) have had the privilege to take with them!

The journey started in 1953 when the president of the Philippines and Cameron Townsend, founder of Wycliffe Bible Translators, approved work to begin. Three years later, a Wycliffe Bible translator named Dick Roe moved into the remote mountain village of Dibagat.

Nard Pugyao was just 7 years old when Dick arrived in his village. He watched Dick learn the Isnag language and begin his work. Eventually, it was this work that changed Nard’s life completely; Nard became a believer when he encountered Jesus through the Gospel of Mark in his language. He later went on to work in Bible translation himself as a missionary pilot, and he was instrumental in networking to bring Scripture to his community, even flying in the printed copies of the New Testament!

In addition to Nard, God brought Dr. Rudy Barlaan, a translator and consultant, to Dibagat in 1971. He ultimately joined Dick in the translation work, leading to the dedication of the New Testament in 1982. At the time, Old Testament translation wasn’t part of the overall strategy, so it seemed like the work was done. But God had other plans and brought in someone to help Rudy: Mark Pugyao, Nard’s nephew, who pastored a local church. The books of the Old Testament began to take shape in Isnag.

Through it all, the VBCC congregation has been faithfully praying for and giving to Rudy, Nard and Mark’s work among the Isnag — since the 1970s! God has grown the relationship between the Virginia Beach and Dibagat communities over decades of partnership, and it has blessed and encouraged both. Just as the VBCC pray for the Isnag, the Isnag pray for VBCC, and they’ve had the opportunity to spend time together and serve one another as well.

“Our love for the Isnag has grown through long-term, personal relationships,” VBCC lead pastor Robb Esperat shared. “The church in Dibagat is not a project we invest in but a sister church we are privileged to serve and grow with. One of our older saints visited Dibagat and told Nard, ‘I want to die here one day.’ Another member of our congregation married Enol, Nard's niece, and they now serve together in Manila! We are family in the truest sense of the word, and our life as a congregation is richer and fuller as a result.”

In the words of Pastor Robb: “They may not all know where the Philippines is, but they know about the Isnag people!”

In the summer of 2023, Pastor Robb had the opportunity to travel with his son and the former missions pastor to the Philippines for the full Bible dedication, while the rest of the congregation rejoiced with the Isnag people from Virginia Beach. 

At the dedication, as the Bibles were being handed out, people could swap out their New Testaments for the full Bible. Copies of well-worn Scripture filled with notes and highlights were replaced with beautiful, fresh pages. Joy and excitement shone on their faces as they received this priceless gift. 

All had invested their hearts, resources and prayers into seeing the Isnag people encounter the gospel in their own language.

“Jesus’ heart delights in the forward movement of His gospel,” Pastor Robb said. “Our congregation has been so blessed by the opportunity to participate in that movement and, through it, to taste His joy.”

After the dedication ceremony wrapped up, Pastor Robb had the honor of helping to baptize 34 Isnag believers in the river as they proclaimed their faith in Jesus Christ. It was a beautiful and powerful testament to how God is moving in and through His global Church.

As Pastor Robb reflected on what he experienced on the trip, he was reminded of the life-changing impact of this work. “With Bible translation at the tip of the spear, the Lord has also brought evangelization, literacy and education, infrastructure development like clean water and solar power, and so much more.”

He concluded: “Truly, the village and its surrounding areas have been transformed. I saw with fresh eyes how the ‘finish line’ of Bible translation is the ‘starting line’ of discipling the nations. God’s Word never returns void; it always produces a crop and is a sure investment of our time and resources.”

More than 7,300 known languages are spoken or signed around the world today. Wycliffe and our partners are currently working with more than 1,700 of them so that people can encounter Jesus through Scripture in a language and format they clearly understand.

A few areas of the world represent the highest remaining needs for Bible translation. We call these the “Big Five” — East Asia, Indonesia, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea and the global Deaf.

The reality is they’re the highest remaining needs for a reason; they’re the hardest of the hard, whether due to geographical location, political opposition, spiritual oppression or otherwise.

The Impact of Partnership

Nigeria has historically been a country with a significant number of languages that needed Bible translation to begin. But that has recently changed!

Two years ago, approximately 250 Nigerian languages still needed Bible translation to begin. Today, plans are in place to begin work on all but a few dozen. This significant drop is directly related to local ownership of the work.

Around this time last year, a meeting between five Nigerian partners resulted in the launch of the Aminci Cluster project. Aminci is a Hausa word that means “trustworthiness” or “reliable.” This four-year project — in partnership with the Nigeria Bible Translation Trust, Faith Comes By Hearing and multiple local churches and associations — will help 49 people groups encounter Jesus through Scripture.

Along with other plans developed through partnership in Nigeria, the Aminci Cluster project brought the total number of languages that needed to have translation started down to just 110. This was a huge milestone, and we rejoiced greatly over the amazing progress being made!

Fast forward to the end of 2023. In early November, another meeting took place to address remaining language needs — this time with nine different partners. The gathering marked another incredible leap forward, resulting in conversations and plans that will see fewer than 30 Vision 2025 languages awaiting Bible translation to start. Praise God for His faithfulness!

With these new starts, we are on the cusp of officially removing Nigeria from the Big Five list! Pray for continued momentum and for the many people involved as they work in unity and collaboration to make disciples of Jesus throughout Nigeria.

God-Sized Dreams

This is the God that we serve: He opens doors, brings together people from different walks of life and levels of expertise, and instills in them a desire for collaboration and unity so that people can encounter Him through Scripture in a language and format they clearly understand.

As believers, we have the privilege of not only watching God move but of playing a part in seeing His Kingdom advanced here on Earth — whether that’s through investing our time, talents and treasures; through praying and interceding before the throne on behalf of God’s people; or through advocating and inviting those in our networks to participate in the work.

As people say “yes” to God’s invitation to spread the Good News to all parts of the world, we see the fulfillment of God-sized dreams to make Scripture available for communities, countries and even entire regions.

Join us in celebrating how God is answering the dream of Nigerian churches — and the many partner organizations and like-minded ministries who work alongside them — to see people experience God’s love for them in a way that captures their hearts forever.

Meet Andy Minch! He has served with Wycliffe for over 40 years in a variety of roles. Why does he love serving?

Andy continued, “[It drives me] not to depend on myself, because I make mistakes, but to depend on God all the time.”

When he served with Bible translation teams overseas, Andy had a chance to work alongside a community and forge meaningful, intercultural relationships. Bringing together different cultures and finding a common path can be tricky. But it is also an honor! Andy said, “[It gave] us the opportunity to hold their children, to cry their tears, to fear their fears and to begin to see the world through their eyes.”

He explained: “I can’t think of a better way to do discipleship than by Bible translation: to sit down … and to work through, verse by verse and thought by thought, each portion of Scripture.”

But Andy didn't have to depend on his own knowledge. He said, “We could allow the Holy Spirit just to take clear and accurate Scriptures to teach [people] what they need.”

Finally, Andy enjoys the Wycliffe colleagues he gets to work with too! He said, “They may not be famous, but they're great in the Kingdom of God. Because these are people who, through sacrifice, have remained faithful."

As Claire and Isaac Petersen put away laundry and clean their rooms, they’re making a positive impact on the world.

Claire, 8, and Isaac, 5, each earn a small amount of money for completing their daily chores. When they finish helping around the house, they take their earnings over to their “piggy banks.”

But these banks don’t look like pigs. Instead, the prism-like containers have three unique compartments, labeled “give,” “spend” and “save.” Claire and Isaac divide their money between the three towers, and as the “give” funds accumulate, they look for a person, organization or cause that they’re excited to give to.

Her family was gathered around the kitchen table, where her mother Melissa read an email she’d received from a friend — Catherine Graul, who serves with Wycliffe Bible Translators.

In her email, Catherine shared about Vision 2025 — the desire to see a Bible translation started in every language that needs one by the year 2025. Catherine explained that for many years, this vision seemed nearly impossible to achieve.

“In the last year alone, it's suddenly become feasible,” Catherine wrote. “That's because God is doing incredible things around the world that we never could have asked or imagined. The rate of Bible translation has sped up like we've never seen before in the history of the Church.”

Upon hearing this, Claire wanted to give her money to Bible translation efforts — and she wanted to do it before she went to bed that night. Melissa went to Wycliffe’s website and helped Claire give $18.50 to Jessie Wright, another friend who works as a translation mentor for the Tiaang language in Papua New Guinea.

When Melissa asked Claire why other kids who wanted to give should consider Wycliffe, Claire explained: “I want people to know about God, and since [the work is] almost done, you could just get it done sooner.”

The Petersen family is no stranger to Bible translation — in fact, Melissa served with Wycliffe as a teacher in Papua New Guinea from 2011 to 2012. Now when she receives messages from her Wycliffe friends, she is eager to pass the news along to her family.

Melissa and her husband, Keith, are enthusiastic about their children learning to give from a young age. They use Dave Ramsey’s “Financial Peace” resources for kids to emphasize ideas like integrity, saving money and giving.

Melissa concluded: “I really like exposing our kids to the different causes and ministries that they might want to be a part of later, and starting that relationship early so that they can see how their skills might impact the world one day.”

Our lives are busy.

Between work, family life, hobbies and daily activities, our schedules can often feel overwhelming and exhausting. But despite our busyness, there’s still an innate desire within us all to make a difference in the world. We want our lives to matter and be significant. As believers, we have the opportunity to point people to Christ — the source of our significance.

Our faith is an integral part of who we are as Christians, but James 2:14 is quick to remind us of the importance of living out our faith in Christ by how we act on earth: “What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions?” (NLT)

Even with limited time, you can meaningfully engage with what God is doing and make a difference in the lives of people — now and for generations to come! Here are four easy ways for you to do just that!

Weave Prayer Into Your Daily Schedule

No matter what your day‑to‑day looks like, you can still make an impact with the time you do have by praying for people throughout the day. Prayer can fit seamlessly into your daily routine — your 9‑to‑5 life. “The 9-to-5 Guide to Praying Around the World” details exactly how you can do that.

Whether you’re brushing your teeth, filling up your water bottle, making dinner or commuting to and from work, your quick prayers for people who are waiting for Scripture can make a huge difference! This fun guide gives you ideas of different ways to pray for Scripture needs, language communities and specific areas of the world throughout your day. Bookmark it for whenever you need some variety in your prayer routine!

How do you lift up strangers halfway around the world when you don’t know their struggles or what they need?

When in doubt, we have a recommendation: Pray Scripture back to God. When we use God’s own words by praying Scripture, we’re aligning ourselves with His heart and praying according to His will. What better way is there to give our prayer lives new meaning?

Support Bible Translation Through Giving

James 1:17 reminds us that generosity is part of God’s character: “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows” (NIV). As we grow in our relationship with God, we become more like Him in everything we do — including giving our time, talents and resources to further His Kingdom here on earth.

One easy way is by using your birthday to encourage others to give to a cause you’re passionate about. Around the world today, God is raising up local churches and communities to make the Bible available to all people. What area of the world are you passionate about? Search for a translation project happening in that region and share it on social media with your family and friends, encouraging them to donate in lieu of a birthday gift.

Even if God hasn’t called you to serve in missions work directly, you can still support the people He has called by partnering with a missionary or missionary family. It’s easy to do: Just search for a missionary and visit their page to learn more about where they’re serving, what role they play in Bible translation work and how you can support them financially. Some missionaries even have links to their personal websites or newsletters so you can keep up with their adventures!

Share About Bible Translation With the Next Generation

God is on the move around the world today through Bible translation work. But He’s not just transforming lives today — the work He is doing is changing lives for years and entire generations to come.

Psalm 78:4 is a reminder of the power in creating an eternal legacy by telling the story of God’s goodness and faithfulness to the next generation:

One of the easiest ways to get younger generations involved in this Kingdom work is by introducing them to Kate and Mack. Kate, a missionary kid, and her faithful parrot friend, Mack, are on an adventure to meet friends all over the world. Through books, downloadable activities, crafts and devotionals, families will learn about God’s great love for all people together and discover why everyone needs a Bible they can understand.

If you’re looking for even more creative ideas for ways you can get younger generations to participate in God’s global mission, check out our blog post, “5 Ways to Get Your Kids Involved in Bible Translation.” Even if you don’t have kids, you can still share these resources with the people in your life — including your church’s children’s ministry!

Use Your Social Media for Good

Whenever you open a social media app, you might feel an array of emotions ranging from apathy to enjoyment to sadness or even anger. Being so connected to events and news happening around the world can feel emotionally exhausting.

God is doing incredible things around the world, and you can discover stories of how He is transforming people’s hearts and minds through Scripture. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) to see how God is working in ways that we have never seen before in the history of the world! Whenever you see something that particularly moves you — whether it’s a video of a Scripture celebration, a heartfelt blog post or a powerful quote — be sure to share it so that your friends and followers can be inspired by God’s goodness too! (You can even visit our YouTube channel; subscribe to get notified about new videos you can share.)

But that doesn’t mean those actions are insignificant.

In fact, Revelation 7:9 paints a beautiful picture of what heaven will look like because of our faithfulness to God’s global mission: “After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb” (NLT).

Someday people from every nation will worship God in their own language — and you can be part of making that a reality. What a privilege and honor it is!

Meet Kristi Ramirez! Why does she love serving in Bible translation with Wycliffe? She said, “One of my favorite things about my job is that I work remotely on a team that actually serves remotely as well.” Some members of Kristi’s team even serve outside of the United States!

She explained: “We have [chat] channels. We have work parties that are [video] calls where we talk about our gardens, our pets [and] things that are going on with our lives.” Staying connected with teammates in creative ways has allowed Kristi to build meaningful relationships. Despite the physical distance between her colleagues, she said that they all “care about each other and know each other well.”

“One of the things that I love about Wycliffe is there’s always ample opportunity to serve,” Kristi said. A couple years ago, Kristi felt ready to move to a new role. She said, “I was able to … change my position, and it was a seamless process. And now I’m in a job that I love. I’m thriving, and I’m so grateful that I made that change.”

For Kristi, the best part of serving with Wycliffe is having the flexibility to live in the U.S. while contributing to a global mission:

In April 2023, a milestone in sign language Bible translation was reached when a consultation was held representing:

• 170+ Deaf leaders.
• 50+ sign languages.
• 49 countries.
• 95 churches and organizations.

The purpose of the gathering was to answer the question: “How do we address sign language Bible translation needs across Eurasia and start a translation project in every sign language still needing it within the next three years?”

Today we are seeing God raise up leaders in Deaf communities all around the world — just like those who gathered in Eurasia — in amazing ways as they seek to start Bible translation for themselves!

Join us in celebrating new projects, including the sampling below, that are now in progress to ensure that more Deaf can see the love of God in a language and format they clearly understand.

Alogbe Sign Language Cluster Project | West Africa

Alogbe means “talking or speaking with hands,” which conveys the heart of the Alogbe Sign Language Cluster project. Fourteen sign languages across nine West African countries will be impacted by this project, providing Scripture access to more than 460,000 Deaf individuals!

The Alogbe Cluster project will accelerate sign language Bible translation by providing visual Bible translation training to Deaf participants, allowing these Deaf communities to see the love of Jesus on display for them in a way that captures their hearts.

Join us in praising God for the launch of this new project, and praying that the people impacted in these nine countries will experience transformed lives.

Amuenoon Sign Language Cluster Project | West Africa

Amuenoon is a word from the Sarpo language of Liberia that means, “We can do it!” The Amuenoon Cluster project represents a faith commitment that the Deaf churches and communities in three West African countries can and will assume responsibility for translating the Bible into sign languages across Liberia, Gambia and Sierra Leone.

In late January, partners held a training workshop that launched the Liberian Sign Language Bible translation projects. This workshop came together after months of prayer and work on behalf of Deaf church leaders and community leaders, and God answered their prayers — 100 Liberian Deaf people gathered to be trained to translate the Bible into their sign language! These individuals had been recruited by their churches and committed to serve as volunteer Bible translators. As far as we know, never before in the history of Bible translation have 100 people committed to work as translators in one language!

Join us in celebrating what God is doing through the Amuenoon Cluster project, and pray for the ongoing work. Pray, too, for those who have volunteered to do the work and ask God to equip them.

E. Sign Language Cluster | Eurasia

The E. Sign Language Cluster* project aims to launch Bible translations in seven sign languages across six areas in Eurasia. These sign languages stem from one major regional sign language but have unique national linguistic features that require their own translations.

Church leaders mobilized their churches to communicate the importance of sign language Bible translation for the Deaf and found people to participate in the process. They also selected which Scriptures to translate and have found educated translators, pastors and community members to participate in the work.

The E. Cluster saw the need for and opportunity to develop a curriculum for a visual Bible translation training workshop, where a group from multiple organizations were trained to serve as Deaf trainers. Now the team is planning workshops to launch sign language Bible translation projects in other countries around the world!

Join us in praying that God would equip these Deaf church leaders to facilitate Bible translation in these communities, providing Scripture in a language and format that people can clearly understand.

* Name changed

Until All Deaf Have Seen

There are more than 380 known sign languages in the world; of these, more than 65 have at least some Scripture.* Only American Sign Language has the full Bible!

By God’s grace, there will be a day when every Deaf man, woman and child has access to the full Word of God in the language that best captures their hearts, so they can fully understand Jesus’ love for them.

Join us in celebrating all that is happening in sign language Bible translation, and ask God to continue opening doors for greater collaboration and the acceleration of this work around the world.

*Source: ProgressBible, April 1, 2024

God is on the move around the world today through Bible translation, causing profound transformation in countless lives. As people encounter Him in their language, individual lives, families and entire communities are changed. God is not only transforming lives today; He is changing lives for generations to come.

We celebrate today’s Bible translation milestones knowing they are paving the way for future ones. The people impacted by Scripture are leaving a legacy of faith just like Psalm 145:4 reminds us:

Stories of Transformation and Legacy

There are countless stories of the legacy of God’s faithfulness to His people, and we wanted to share a few examples with you. The people in the following four stories are helping provide the next generation of people across the world with access to the truth of God’s goodness and love through His Word.

A 5-Year Old’s Prayers Transformed an Entire Community

You’re never too young to be able to make a difference in the world, and Sam’s story is proof of that.

Sam’s parents were missionaries with Wycliffe Bible Translators and encouraged their children to support Bible translation projects from an early age.

Sam explained: “There was a large world map on one of the walls … where we could stick a pin on a location indicating a [people group] we wanted to pray for and to support the mission team there.”

At just 5 years old, Sam studied the map and was interested in Easter Island — a country that is located 2,300 miles off the west coast of Chile in the Pacific Ocean. He placed his pin on Easter Island and said he wanted to pray for and give toward the translation project there.

Sam’s choice had a problem: There wasn’t a translation project in Easter Island yet. Little did Sam know, however, that around the same time he started praying, halfway around the world a newly married couple named Bob and Nancy Weber were also praying — asking God to use them to further His Kingdom through Bible translation. They were willing to go wherever God called them.

And then God answered the Webers by calling them to Easter Island! There, the couple worked with the Rapa Nui people whose language had been facing possible extinction. Bob and Nancy continued to work alongside the Rapa Nui, eventually helping them translate their New Testament.

“That really impacted me as a kid,” Sam recalled, “to be praying for something of that importance and then seeing God bring it to fruition.”

Scripture reminds us of the power of our prayers — no matter our age!

Empowering Children Through Literacy and Education

Many of us can recall sitting with our families as children, discovering the joy of picture books and stories. As we grew, we learned sight words before moving onto reading more complex books and materials.

We can often take our access to literacy for granted in the U.S.; in many other countries in the world, literacy materials aren't easily accessible.

Even if children can attend school, many will not learn to read and write in the language that they use at home — instead they’ll likely learn in the country’s official language.

Education is a powerful tool that makes a substantial community impact. Around the world today, people are gaining access to literacy materials that allow them to read and write in their own languages for the first time. That is changing whole communities — just like Tida and Soutoucou in Senegal.

Tida, Soutoucou and a handful of other women worked together to grow produce and sell it at their local open-air marketplace. They couldn’t always do that though.

In a culture where men are the primary breadwinners and decision makers, and women rarely hold positions of power, the market garden that the women created was a way to empower themselves, help support their families and set examples for their community.

How were they able to accomplish this? Through a literacy program that Wycliffe funded and SIL (Wycliffe’s primary partner) coordinated years ago that gave women the chance to read and write their language for the very first time.

Tida, in fact, was well into her thirties before she saw her own language written down or learned to read it.

What the women were most excited about though was the impact literacy had on their families.

Their school-age kids attended classes taught in Senegal’s official language, French, which was difficult since Manjak is their first language.

To help their children, the women shared their Manjak texts with their kids, which improved their literacy and French skills at school. Some kids even took their mom’s places in the Manjak literacy class.

“I love it when my kids study Manjak,” Soutoucou said. “We are here to help our children and our families.”

When people are able to understand God in their own language, lives and communities — just like Tida and Soutoucou’s — change forever.

Translating for the Next Generation

As a young man, Lucas returned to his village in Ghana to care for his ailing mother. While he was there, an older man named Reverend Kwasi Bansah, who was part of the Nyagbo Bible translation team, heard that Lucas had arrived in the village.

Knowing Lucas had a degree in computer technology, the reverend paid him a visit to introduce the Bible translation project and talk about the software they were using. Rev. Bansah began to occasionally call on the young man to check things for him on the computer.

Not long after, one of the other translators began to experience trouble with his eyesight. Soon he couldn’t read the computer screen and do translation work because the cataracts in his eyes were so bad.

Knowing that Lucas had already helped them with computer work, Rev. Ziangro invited the young man to become a part of the translation team and type up things for him on the computer.

Lucas was fascinated with the idea of a translation project in Nyagbo and joined the team. As people began to get portions of Scripture in Nygabo, God began transforming the community.

Lucas noted: “Whenever Scripture is read in Nyagbo [in churches], you can see the mood has changed.”

Where people previously fell silent (or even fell asleep), Scripture readings now produce joy. People clap and are excited. They perk up and even occasionally respond to what the preacher is saying.

After the launch of the Gospel of Mark, people came up to Lucas and encouraged him about the work and the progress of translation in their own language.

In 2021, the Nyagbo New Testament was officially dedicated! It was a joyous ceremony, as people traveled from near and far to celebrate the publication of God’s Word in their language.

“We’ve always been taught that when you speak to a child in his or her [language], it goes straight to the hearts,” Lucas said.

Lucas hopes Nyagbo will continue to be used in schools and churches throughout the region so that younger generations can grow up knowing God speaks their language.

The Impact of the Isnag Bible in the Philippines

An important part of leaving a legacy is not just looking ahead but also looking back on where we’ve been. Even when it seems impossible and the journey is long, God demonstrates His faithfulness to us. The Isnag people in the Philippines know this.

Nard Pugyao was just 7 years old when he was transformed by the Book of Mark in his language of Isnag. God spoke to Nard’s heart, and his life was changed forever.

Since then, he’s encouraged others to walk with Jesus just like he did and has dedicated his life to helping produce more Isnag Scriptures.

The Isnag New Testament was eventually dedicated in 1982, and a revised New Testament, plus Genesis and Exodus, was dedicated in 2006. But the Isnag people still did not have the complete Bible.

God was at work all this time in Nard’s life and his family. Nard’s nephew, Mark, would eventually become part of the team translating the Old Testament into Isnag!

And in June 2023 — more than 66 years after the gospel first arrived to the Isnag people in Nard’s small village of Dibagat — the full Isnag Bible was dedicated!

“I saw a lot of people excited to get the Bible. I hope that when they get the Bible, they read it with the kids, explain what it is and tell them how important that book is — not tearing it, but treating it as if it’s precious,” Nard’s niece, Enol Paul, noted.

Nard and Mark passed out the Bibles at the dedication to people from the older generations. They, like Nard, had waited their entire lifetime for this gift.

Then the younger generation received their copies of the Bible and were prayed over during the ceremony. They are part of a generation that will never remember a day when the full counsel of God’s Word wasn’t in their language.

This is why Bible translation is so important! It provides people from every generation — young and old — with an opportunity to understand just how much God loves them, sees them and knows them personally. Praise God for His faithfulness to the Isnag!

A Legacy of God’s Word

God is constantly drawing people around the world to Himself through Scripture and proving His faithfulness from generation to generation.

Lamentations 3:22 reminds us that “the faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease” (NLT). And the legacy of Bible translation means that the people whose lives are changed today will have a ripple effect for years to come.

Entire families, communities and regions of the world will be changed because the Word of God is available in their language.

How You Can Be Part of This Legacy

You have the opportunity to be a part of this incredible journey of transformation and community impact that God does through Bible translation. You can support Bible translation efforts by praying for projects globally, donating financially, volunteering your skills and spreading awareness to help all people experience God’s love and guidance through Scripture in a language that touches their hearts.

Wherever you are, you can be part of providing the next generation with Scripture. Imagine the lives that will be transformed, the communities that will be strengthened and the lasting impact you will help create.

Could that be your legacy?

Nick and Rachel Wolverton have been passionate about Bible translation for a long time.

The couples do a lot of life together. As they considered ways to live in an intentional community with each other, they felt called to give as a community too.

They found a project that they wanted to fund, pooling resources so they could do more together than they could on their own.

“We’re linking arms together and bringing our daily lives into more alignment — not only in the places that we worship and serve in, but also the strategic ways that we can give,” Josh shared.

It’s their desire to raise their kids — the next generation — to feel comfortable in a space of shared generosity where they are helping advance the Great Commission.

“To instill generosity and a love for the Bible for all people in our kids at a young age meant a lot to us,” Kaitlin shared. “[We want] our boys to get to know that the Bible is not something that we want to take for granted, but something … to cherish — not only for ourselves, but for people around the world who don’t have that access.”

Teaching kids about living generous lives is important, but the Wolvertons and Saenzes want their children to see the value of being in community with others. As Hebrews 10:24 reminds us: “Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works” (NLT).

“Because of the individual nature of American culture, generosity and money in general are topics that aren’t on the table. And we don’t want that to be the case,” Nick shared. He and Rachel want to model a different way of life for their children. He continued: “[Generosity] is, in fact, another part of the Christian life that gets discipled through community and through relationships.”

Both couples would encourage everyone else to do the same in order to forge deeper community with one another.

“For people who are thinking, ‘How do I find this community that expands beyond one portion of my life?’ It’s taking risks in conversation and putting out an ask and asking people to pray and join you,” shared Kaitlin.

Both the Wolvertons and the Saenzes agree that the blessings of giving in community are incredible. God has entrusted them with resources — their time, talents and treasures — that they have the opportunity to steward. And they’re seeking to steward them all well, for God’s glory and the good of His people around the world.

He continued: “We can actually blow the ceiling off if we are inviting others into [giving]. That’s been one of the strategic ways that we’ve been thinking of how we can continue to be generous: by inviting others into [it] with us. And that’s been a huge joy because God’s already got the plan for how He’s going to accomplish His purposes.”

“Our joys gets to grow because we’re with one another,” Kaitlin said. “We can celebrate [what God is doing] individually, but when we come together, the celebration feels larger.”

Freddy Boswell, a translation consultant for SIL International (Wycliffe’s primary partner), talks about the way he has seen people excited for the Word of God in their own language. At one Scripture dedication for the Cheke Holo of the Solomon Islands, he witnessed a man purchase four Bibles. When asked why he’d purchased so many, the man responded: “I want everybody in my family to have one!”

God is on the move around the world today, and it is a privilege to witness how He is transforming hearts, lives and entire communities with His Word.

Today local churches are asking for — and sometimes even starting — Bible translation themselves. And they don’t want to wait for the work to start; they want to start it now. Local churches are playing a significant role in Bible translation for their own communities, and that’s exponentially accelerating the pace of the work. The global Church is taking ownership of Bible translation.

As believers in Christ, we have the opportunity to participate in God’s global mission in many ways, including in Bible translation. Learn more about this incredible season in the history of Bible translation and how God is inviting us to play a role in seeing His name made known among the nations in the languages and formats people clearly understand.

Meet Wendy Lundberg! Although Wendy enjoyed working as a teacher and high school principal at a Christian school, she looked forward to retiring and having more free time.

“I wanted to be free to have lunch with all my friends,” Wendy said. “I wanted to have a goal of spoiling my grandchildren. And I wanted to do something challenging — like maybe pickleball! Or something really non-stressful. But very quickly I got really bored. I found that I was living a life without purpose and meaning. I just felt that all my days, even though they were filled with activities, were really empty.”

Around that time Wendy attended a Perspectives class where the speaker shared how God is on the move around the world. Wendy remembered, “[The speaker asked], ‘If God is on the move, how can [we] be sitting on the sidelines?’ And I thought, ‘I really want to have more of the purpose of God in my life.’ And then he looked right directly at me and he said, ‘And you could be in Wycliffe.’ And I almost fell off my chair.”

At first, Wendy thought serving with Wycliffe wasn’t something that she could do. After learning more about what it takes to serve, she decided to join God’s global mission and contribute to Bible translation.

She said, “Wycliffe is for people who know that God is on the move and want to be part of a movement that is giving hope to people who want their lives transformed.

At just five years old, Sam Anderson decided to pray for the people of Easter Island to receive God’s Word. That began an almost 45-year connection with the Rapa Nui and the people called to serve them.

Sam’s parents, John and Joy Anderson, were missionaries with Wycliffe Bible Translators. In 1975 they were serving in Nevada and working with the Northern Paiute New Testament translation.

“As kids, we were given an allowance and if we did chores around the house, we received a wage from Mom and Dad: a whopping 10 cents an hour,” Sam recalled, laughing.

Like his siblings, 5-year-old Sam placed a tithe of his earnings in an old metal Twinings Tea box. The money would go toward supporting a Wycliffe translation project somewhere in the world.

“There was a large world map on one of walls near that box where we could stick a pin on a location indicating a [people group] we wanted to pray for and to support the mission team there,” Sam explained.

Sam studied the map and was interested in Easter Island, 2,300 miles off the west coast of Chile in the Pacific Ocean. He placed his pin on Easter Island and said he wanted to pray for and give toward the translation project there.

There was only one problem with Sam’s choice: There wasn’t a translation project there yet. Sam told his parents that he would pray for one to get started.

As Sam lifted up Easter Island, he was unaware of how God was working in the lives of Bob and Nancy Weber.

HALFWAY AROUND THE WORLD

Bob and Nancy Weber grew up in Peru and, like Sam, they were children of Wycliffe missionaries. The Webers had married around the time Sam began to pray for Easter Island and were asking God how he wanted to use them to further His Kingdom and help bring hope through Bible translation.

Months later, Sam’s parents would receive a letter from a friend in SIL* who mentioned that Bob and Nancy were being assigned to a new project on Easter Island! The Webers were to first focus on helping the Rapa Nui strengthen their language — which was facing possible extinction — and then on working with them to translate the New Testament into Rapa Nui.

Bob and Nancy initially learned about Sam through financial gifts that came up on their statement from Wycliffe. “We had no idea that he was just a child [at the time] or that he had started praying for us when he was a very small boy,” Nancy said. “So we wrote our thank‑you notes to a ‘Mr.’ Sam Anderson.”

The Webers discovered that Sam had begun praying for someone to start a translation for the people of Easter Island and had also sold stationary in order to have gifts to send to the Webers. So Bob and Nancy decided to write Sam a thank‑you letter. They told him when they had first been interested in Easter Island — just after he started praying in 1975!

“That really impacted me as a kid,” Sam recalled, “to be praying for something of that importance and then seeing God bring it to fruition.”

Over four decades of work on Easter Island, Bob and Nancy saw the Lord answer so many of their prayers — from taking care of them and their three children to protecting the translation work in the face of opposition to providing the funds to pay the translators who joyfully and selflessly assisted them.

“Our clear call to the island and to the translation for the Rapa Nui, and the knowledge that many people were praying for us daily, kept us going,” Nancy said.

In early 2019, Sam and the Webers had the privilege of reconnecting at Wycliffe USA’s Orlando headquarters, just months after the completion of the Rapa Nui New Testament!

“It was special to meet Sam and his sister Kara, who is with Wycliffe in Orlando, and also their parents,” Nancy said.

Sam readily agreed. “Growing up as a missionary kid, I knew that a Bible translation project is a huge undertaking and takes a long time,” he said. “It was amazing to hold the Rapa Nui New Testament in my hands and to see living proof of God’s faithfulness in answering prayer.”

No matter your age, prayer is a vital part of your personal relationship with Jesus Christ and of any ministry done in His name. As Psalm 65:5a reminds us: “You faithfully answer our prayers with awesome deeds, O God our Savior” (NLT).

*Wycliffe's primary partner.

“Blessed” is a word that we use often to describe everything from a wonderful vacation with family to a job promotion to enjoying a beautiful fall day with a pumpkin spice latte in hand.

In our minds, “blessed” probably equates to a comfortable life with good health, few problems and special moments that make our days better. We add a quick “#blessed” to our social media posts to share these good moments in our life with the world, and many others do the same.

If Jesus were to have a social media account, would we see #blessed added to His posts? Or does He have a different understanding of what it means to be “blessed” and therefore what it means to live a “blessed life”?

The Beatitudes in Matthew 5 describe situations that are contrary to our belief that blessings are found in health, wealth and comfort. In fact, they describe quite the opposite! Jesus shares about people who experience hardship, suffering and even persecution but who are living a blessed, abundant life because they’re choosing to keep their eyes on Him.

This mindset is countercultural to the messages we receive every day that blessings only come in good packages. After all, we know that adding “#blessed” to a post that shares about an inconvenience of life is just a sarcastic expression of what we certainly would not consider to be a blessing, right?

But as Jesus preaches in the Beatitudes, we come face-to-face with a far different definition of what it means to be blessed. We’d likely argue that what Jesus is describing is the exact opposite of blessings, and if that’s what it means to be blessed, count us out!

And according to His words in the Beatitudes, we can see that Jesus desires far more for us than what we desire for ourselves. We just need to focus on Him rather than our circumstances.

That’s what it is to be blessed: to be willing to pursue God with wholehearted abandon, even if it means encountering hardship or enduring suffering. Because the pursuit of God is the blessed life and, as we keep our eyes focused on Him, we’ll discover all we need in Him.

How do we actually live out God’s call to reach the nations, no matter where we live or work?

The Perspectives on the World Christian Movement course, which shares about God’s heart for the nations and our role in God’s great purpose, features four disciplines and four practices every Christian should strive to incorporate into his or her life in order to help spread the gospel.

Read how Wycliffe missionaries and Perspectives instructors engage with these disciplines and practices in their own lives.

THE DISCIPLINES

In order to more effectively respond to God’s mandate to reach the nations, every Christian should strive to incorporate four disciplines into their rhythms of life: prayer, learning, simplicity and community.

The Discipline of Prayer

Stacy Lee, a Perspectives coordinator and the Perspectives team lead for Wycliffe, is passionate about making prayer a priority.

“Bible translation in and of itself is a work of God,” Stacy said. “So prayer is vital! [Bible translation] just cannot be done without our full reliance on God. … And prayer is a recognition that we cannot do this in our own strength. … If I do any of the other stuff without prayer, it is just worthless.”

Stacy strives to make prayer an integral part of the daily rhythms of her life: “Prayer is a part of what we do and who we are at Wycliffe.”

“As I coordinate Perspectives, my main goal is to awaken students to God’s global mission and to equip them to pray,” she explained. “It’s a privilege to pray! Prayer is a part of every aspect of the work [of Bible translation]. … Whatever part of your journey, it should all be encompassed in prayer.”

The Discipline of Learning

David and Carleen Heath, who are Perspective instructors and translation advisers, constantly learn about the nations and grow in their understanding. This draws them closer to God and helps them grow in humility and understanding.

When David and Carleen were learning a local language in Africa, they liked to sit with their friends around a fire and practice talking about different topics. One day David started asking questions about their friends’ camel. “Is your camel stubborn?” he asked. “How much water does it drink? What types of things do you carry on their camel?”

To his dismay, Carleen quickly leaned over and whispered, “You’re not saying the word, ‘camel;’ you’re saying the word ‘potato!’” Everyone burst out laughing, and David never forgot that word again!

“We learned to laugh at ourselves,” David said. “We humbled ourselves before the people in the village and really put ourselves in the position of the learner so they wouldn’t feel intimidated by correcting us. We always considered them the experts. … That was elevating to them.”

David continued: “I think the American church can learn from our African brothers and sisters in Christ as much as they can learn from us.”

The Discipline of Simplicity

Marcia Woodward is a Perspectives instructor and launch coordinator who deeply values the discipline of simplicity. “The goal is for the Word of God to go to every people group, every nation [and] to the ends of the earth. … If we live simply, then we are able to go or send or mobilize or welcome … and accomplish that end.”

Marcia has striven to practice simplicity and give generously whenever and however God has asked, even in challenging situations. And God always provides abundantly. “He brought me pairs of shoes, airline tickets, tuition — it was just amazing!” she exclaimed.

She reflected: “Living simply really isn’t hard when you do it by the grace of God. I didn't just survive; I thrived! … There is a tremendous freedom and joy to be able to give generously.”

The Discipline of Community

Ministering to the nations is never an independent venture. Vernacular media specialist and Perspectives instructor Stephen Coats values community in all areas of his life — from family and friends to church to his Wycliffe team.

“I’ve never been involved in a media project where it’s something I [do on my own]. It doesn’t work that way. There’s always collaboration and co-laboring,” Stephen said. “Each contributor on the project makes it better than my original concept. In the end it might be different from what I originally envisioned, but it is something quite a bit better.”

Stephen also appreciates the Wycliffe community in times of challenge and hardship. “During one hard time, leadership brought us together and said, ‘We hear you. We know you’re hurting. We’re with you. We stand behind you.’ That was pivotal for me in my journey of community with Wycliffe, to know that in a time of pain and hurt, our leadership would support us.”

THE PRACTICES

God calls all Christians to participate in four crucial practices to reach the nations: mobilizing, sending, going and welcoming. Throughout different seasons of life, you may find God asking you to focus on one over the others, but all are valuable.

Mike Moline, a Perspectives instructor and Wycliffe mobilizer, is passionate about encouraging the American church to engage with the global Bible translation movement. “Mobilizing is important because people actually have to go and do these large, unfinished tasks. If we don’t go, we’ll miss the opportunity to be a part of [the Great Commission].”

God can and does use all skills and gifts to glorify Christ among the nations. Mike uses his love of public speaking and sharing information to make a difference: “Every opportunity I get, I share the strategic impact of Bible translation, which is what drew me into Wycliffe [in the first place].” As a result, Mike has seen multiple people get engaged in missions and Bible translation.

“One of our core reasons for Wycliffe existing as an organization is … to enable people to get involved in the Bible translation movement,” Mike explained. “Mobilization is part of helping the church fulfill its vision and responsibility: glorifying Christ among the nations.”

The Practice of Sending

Sending people to serve in missions is at the core of Jamie Farr’s role as both the vice president for Wycliffe’s planning, staffing and development department and also as a Perspectives instructor. “Sending is … [telling] the story of what we’ve seen God do globally,” Jamie said. “God gives that story power, and people respond … and want to participate in what he is doing.”

Jamie sees sending as inviting someone to do missions in community rather than trying to push someone toward an action. He said: “I believe the Lord has created us to belong and be a part of God's Kingdom. … The reasons why people ultimately go are because … the Lord is leading them and because someone said, ‘Come, be a part of my team.’”

“Sending doesn’t happen on one day and it's done,” he continued. “It's the deep care for people that really matters. … We steward the person.”

Jamie recalled a time when he prayed and walked alongside a couple he met in a Perspectives class as they sorted through their concerns. “If we address the needs of individuals … we can help people feel invited,” Jamie said. “It changes everything. … It [creates] a deeper sense of community and belonging.”

The Practice of Going

David Edwards, a Perspectives instructor and translation adviser, took Perspectives before he joined Wycliffe. During the course, he discovered there are many unreached people groups who don’t live in urban environments around the world.

“Somebody has got to go to them,” he observed, “and overcome the geographic distance [and] linguistic difference to catalyze something so that someday there will be indigenous witnesses for Christ.”