Friday Field Notes

GATHERING TOGETHER – Dr. Becky Grossmann

LBT values relationships. We value all our partners. Partners like you who pray and support the various ministries, partners that carry on the work in various locations around the world, and partners that work remotely as missionaries or staff.

Because this is a special anniversary year, we had a special gathering in July at a retreat center in Missouri instead of on the LBT campus. We discussed various topics, evaluated how we are doing in these areas and elicited concerns and ideas as we go forward beyond our 60 years. Topics shared included how we align with the church here and abroad, how we foster ownership with language communities, what ministry staffing needs we have, along with strategies and timelines projected by our administrative visionaries.

Last time I wrote I told you about a meeting with various entities working in Bible translation in Liberia. This meeting ran for two days and gave opportunity for each of the nine groups represented to introduce themselves and what they are doing in Liberia. One group conducts listening groups so people can meet and hear the recording of their Bible. Another group is working in seven language
groups: five Old Testament projects and two whole Bibles. Their approach is quite different from what we use, so it will be interesting to see how well received the final product is.

Hopefully, they do some testing early in the process so necessary adjustments can be made before they get too far along. They are also in need of consultant help. We may be able to learn things from each other and share resources. Another group is working with oral Bible translation. They are also doing a video recording of the Bible in Liberian sign language. All the groups agreed that literacy is a high need throughout the country. The meeting ended before any official cooperative agreement could be developed. Pray that this will still be done.