Village checking for Bible translation

One of the last steps in Bible translation before the book is ready for printing is to do what is called "village checking."  This is a check with outside people who were not originally involved in the rest of the translation process.  They are able to give feedback on how the translation sounds as far as fluidity and accuracy in the local language.  They are also asked questions to test that the meaning is coming across clearly and accurately with what the original Bible text said (in Greek, for the New Testament).

 We have a few more places to do village testing, but our first test was done in Olal in a Catholic community that has used a French Bible for the last hundred years or so.  It was great to be able to read through the entire book of Mark with these village leaders and get their feedback and see their interest and excitement to hear/see the Word of God in their own language for the first time!