Meaningful work in translation of the Bible

Christianity may be losing some of its influence in our Western society, but the Bible remains the world's best-seller, a good read for both all believers and non-believers.
By The Newsroom
Published 13th Feb 2016, 11:32 BST
Updated 17th Feb 2016, 07:35 BST
First Magherafelt Presbyterian Church Picture: Billy MaxwellFirst Magherafelt Presbyterian Church Picture: Billy Maxwell
First Magherafelt Presbyterian Church Picture: Billy Maxwell

Wycliffe Bible Translators UK proclaim that the Bible is the best way for people to discover and understand who God is.

Their vision is that by working with churches, organisations and individuals from across the world, all people will be able to access the Word of God in their own language.

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Presbyterian Moderator the Rev Dr Ian McNie recently paid a visit to Wycliffe branch office at The Mount off the Woodstock Road in East Belfast and he is greatly encouraged by the commitment of those who work there.

Dr McNie had the opportunity to talk with those involved in Bible translation locally. He heard about their work and meeting the staff and volunteers, discovered first hand what it means to translate God’s word into another language.

“I discovered that around 180 million people, speaking at least 1,800 languages, need a Bible in the language they understand best. Without this incredible work taking place those people will never be able to read the story of God’s love for themselves.

“Wycliffe Bible Translators are vital in supporting the life and witness of the worldwide church, so to this end I would like to encourage congregations to support them in any way they can,” said Dr. McNie.

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Along with other agencies involved in Bible distribution and Christian broadcasting, Wycliffe Bible Translators play a crucial role in supporting the life and witness of the worldwide church.

Of the 6,887 languages in the world today, only 554 have a complete Bible.

As a result, the Presbyterian Church in Ireland has identified Wycliffe Bible Translators as a specialist service agency.

This special relationship with Irish Presbyterianism recognises the fact that the valuable service Wycliffe are doing is something that no single church or denomination can easily do.

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John Hamilton, of Wycliffe Bible Translators in East Belfast, said: “We had an enjoyable and encouraging time with the Moderator Dr McNie. He already knew a lot about Bible translation, but also confessed that the visit had widened his perspective.

“We told him how much Wycliffe values the partnership with the Presbyterian Church and that together we can work to alleviate the Bible poverty that still exists in the world. Our staff would be delighted to visit congregations to tell them more about Wycliffe’s work and to encourage them in their global mission.”

Wycliffe Bible Translators exists to enable all peoples to engage with the Bible in a language that speaks to their heart. It also seeks to work together with others to carry out Jesus’ command to make disciples of all nations.

It is part of an family of 100 organisations from 60 nations working alongside many partner organisations, individuals from local communities and national organisations.

The Wycliffe Bible Translators’ website is (www.wycliffe.org.uk/).

Related topics:WesternEast BelfastPresbyterian Church