Jun 3, 2020 Uh oh! We’re gonna need a translator!

Team members, Evonne and Barbara, arrived at the Santana church in Barahona, Dominican Republic, prepped and ready to get their first night of the children’s program underway. They enthusiastically greeted the throng of children who had gathered, waiting for the program to begin.

As they entered the dirt yard beside the church where they were planning to hold their program, they suddenly realized there was a major problem: they didn’t have a translator! Determined to not let that stop them, they forged ahead. I really don’t know much Spanish,” says Evonne. “But without a translator, I realized that it was up to me. I had to use all the Spanish I could remember!”

One of the church youth, Natalia, was helping the team members get organized. She motioned to them to wait a minute and ran into the church. She started asking around for anyone who spoke English. Soon she returned with a young man named Jose.

“Jose spoke about as much English I speak Spanish,” laughs Evonne. “Between the two of us, we were able to lead the program. We started with the craft because we kept hoping a translator would come, Evonne shares.

The two young people didn’t know quite what to expect that first night, but with smiles and enthusiasm they forged on. When it came time for the Bible story, Evonne showed the Spanish-speaking children’s leader which story she’d planned to tell. Working together, the Spanish-speaking leader stepped in and told the familiar Bible story.

Working around a language barrier it didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits! Eagerly and with joy, the team was able to communicate and reflect the love of Jesus to all the children. On the third night of meetings, Evonne and Barbara breathed a huge sigh of relief when Francisco arrived–their translator was finally there. They’d been doing ok, but now, it would be even better!

One of the most amazing things you will experience in the mission field is how God takes our meager gifts and efforts and transforms them into something that makes a big impact. Even when you’re unsure and feel out of your depth, all things work together for good when He is with us.

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