Tasmanian Baptists fund a New Testament Translation for a remote tribe in Asia

Tasmanian Baptist churches have come together around an exciting opportunity to help fund the translation of the New Testament for a people group in a troubled region of Asia who currently have no Bible in their own language.

Over the past few months, our network of about 30 churches has been learning about the project and considering how we might participate together. We are encouraged that churches have already begun making financial pledges towards the ongoing costs of the translation work, with commitments now approaching 50% of the required funding. Our hope is that the project will be fully funded and ready to launch within the next two months.

A team of three translators is already in place and based in their nation’s capital, where they have access to training, supervision and practical support through Wycliffe Associates, including translator training and the equipment needed for their work. The project will also benefit from the oversight of an experienced pastor and Bible translator who has successfully completed a New Testament translation in his own language. Having already met with the team, he is confident in both their capability and commitment to the task.

The total cost of supporting the translation team is approximately $700 per month. By working together across our Tasmanian Baptist churches, this goal is well within reach. If the project proceeds as planned, the team could complete the New Testament translation within approximately six years.

This initiative provides a practical opportunity for our churches to work together in making Scripture available to people in their heart language. We are grateful for the churches that have already committed to supporting the project and look forward to seeing how God continues to provide through the partnership of Baptist churches across Tasmania.