The following is an article set to appear in our 2nd quarter newsletter which is about to be released:
This was a CRAZY busy quarter in terms of all the things I’ve been able to do. Let me begin by addressing the preview items from last quarter’s newsletter.
The Nyakyusa recordings will be tested and distributed. We’re still in the test phase because we found some inconsistencies with the audio compared to the printed Scripture. I’m waiting until after our branch conference (early July) to schedule some correction recording sessions with four different speakers. Why so many? Well, two of them will be coming in for single word recordings. One said, “cha” when he should’ve said, “kya,” and another said “Abinalamu” when he should’ve said “Aminalabu.” I caught neither of these things while we were recording nor while I was editing! Our goal is to distribute a quality, accurate recording so you can see how the work can easily become very intensive.
We will begin a weekly radio broadcast playing Scripture and biblical songs in the local languages. I’ve put this project on hold for the time being. Not because I don’t think it can happen but because when it does happen, even the very first broadcast, I want it to be done right. I don’t think I’m to that point yet so I’ll continue to seek advice and feedback on all of my ideas.
The Gospel of Mark will be recorded in the Vwanji language in preparation for a later-in-the-year dedication ceremony. This task has gone very well. We’ve only spent one week recording so far and in that short period, we completed 57% of all the lines in the book! Soon after conference, we’ll resume the recording with all the words of Jesus up next. After that, we’ll only have to record the short-appearance characters.
The translation department asked for the audio to be ready to accompany [Mark] and other study materials we’ll release that day. [The Vwanji] will have Ruth and Jonah recorded and made available as well. I’m happy to inform you that both Ruth and Jonah have completed the recording phase!
At least two other languages will have the recordings of Ruth and Jonah begun. Two other languages… not yet. But, we’ve almost finished one of them. Jonah in the Malila language has been completely recorded and I am now only lacking the voices of the women in Ruth. The Nyiha language recording should begin in August.
