Essentially Translatable: Recent Episodes
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Explore missional conversations from global leaders in the Bible translation community.
Discover their stories and why they‘re passionate about putting God’s Word in the hands of people around the world.
For the final throwback episode of Essentially Translatable, we highlight the ministry of Dr. Jim and Susan Kaiser. Recorded in 2020, Jim and Susan were preparing to return to Ethiopia during the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic. They discuss their background in mission work and how it has shaped their lives up to now.
Serving since the early 1980s, Jim and Susan recount experiences in Bible translation ministry from Sierra Leone to Ethiopia to the United States. Each had unique entry points into serving as missionaries: Jim comes from an engineering background and Susan trained as a teacher— a shared interest in missionary work led to a strong partnership.
If you’ve ever felt the urge to “do something more” for missions, this episode is helpful. Jim and Susan share a similar urging and of embracing God’s provision and leading. Great is God’s faithfulness whether it be in finding a helpmate, a partner, raising a family on the mission field, or so much more.
In this throwback episode of Essentially Translatable, host Rich Rudowske interviews Jim Laesch, a longtime member of the Lutheran Bible Translators community. This episode originally aired back in 2020 and focuses on Jim’s more than 45 years of missionary service. Throughout the years, Jim has served in a variety of roles, both in missionary service and administration, from 1973 until his retirement at the end of 2021.
Listen to hear Jim recount his early involvement in missionary work, which began with a simple encouragement from a friend to study linguistics. He reflects on his significant work in Liberia where he coordinated translation projects for the Northern Grebo language communities. Over time his role changed to administration for multiple translation projects across various regions. Jim also shares anecdotes from his past, like the creation of Joe Cool stories, which are still remembered by many members of the Lutheran Bible Translators community today.
Throughout the discussion, Jim highlights the impact of Bible translation and the importance of spreading the Gospel through one’s own language. There are always challenges and successes of translation projects. What is important to Jim is how his faith and work with Lutheran Bible Translators has strengthened his trust in God's sovereignty.
For this episode of Essentially Translatable, the celebration of 60 years of Lutheran Bible Translators ministry continues with this insightful throwback from 2020. Rewind to the first episode of the podcast and listen as current CEO Rich Rudowske interviews Dr. Mike Rodewald, the former Executive Director of Lutheran Bible Translators.
Spanning over 33 years of service, Dr. Rodewald details his journey from a high school band teacher to becoming a dedicated missionary in the countries of Liberia, Botswana, and later a regional director in South Africa. The conversation dives into the evolution of mission work, the impact of Bible translation, and the essential role of missiology in effective ministry.
Dr. Rodewald discusses the challenges and joys he has faced over the decades. Through these experiences he has learned to recognize the importance of relationships and having good cultural understanding in pursuit of spreading God’s Word. This podcast also touches on the strategic relocation of the organization headquarters to Concordia, MO and the direction Lutheran Bible Translators has taken in empowering local communities for self-sustaining missions.
In this episode of Essentially Translatable, dive into the concept of setting a financial finish line to start a journey of mission-minded generosity. Brothers Kealan and Cody Hobelmann, one a surgeon and the other a financial advisor, are founders of the Finish Line ministry and hosts of the Finish Line Podcast. During this episode they share their experience of life defined by generosity.
Kealan shares a story of extreme prayer during a time of financial insecurity. By the grace of God Kealan made it through medical school without accumulating any debt. Since then, Kealan and his family have lived life defined by a financial finish line, one that focuses on setting a finish line on their annual spending, and then giving the rest away to other causes. Cody, seeing the impact this decision had on his brother, decided to also make a finish line pledge. Through his gift of generosity, Cody has found inspiration in the many organizations that are advancing access to the Gospel through Bible translation.
This episode explores the possibilities of setting a financial finish line to achieve contentment and redirecting your focus towards God's mission. Learn about the practical impacts of living within this financial boundary, such as how to create a Finish Line Pledge, and how to research what options are available to donate to. Kealan and Cody’s story is a compelling testimony on the impact of a generous life, being rooted in faith, and focusing on personal fulfillment by being involved in a broader community.
Highlights
- Dr. Kealan and Cody Hobelmann are founders of the Finish Line ministry and host the Finish Line Pledge podcast.
- Hear testimonies about the transformative effect of setting goals of generosity.
- Learn more about setting your own Finish Line pledge here
In the past 60 years, missionaries with Lutheran Bible Translators have seen war and destruction effect the growth of ministry—but the faithfulness of God has never been disrupted. On this episode of Essentially Translatable, host Rich Rudowske celebrates the organization's 60th anniversary and explores a significant pivot in the history of Lutheran Bible Translators during the 1980s and early 1990s.
This episode brings listeners stories from the Liberian Civil War and the impact it had on the organizations’ approach to Bible translation. With extensive translation work being done in Liberia at the time, the war disrupted operations but subsequently led to a shift towards local ownership and partnerships within translation efforts.
Hear interviews with Alvina Federwitz, Jim Laesch, and David Federwitz: all missionaries who were affected by the civil war in Liberia in various capacities. Reflect on Alvina’s first-hand experience with the violence of war. Consider the challenges Jim faced in regulating administration during a period of great uncertainty for the organization. And learn from David as he explains the outcome the war had in leading to the formation of the Liberia Translation and Literacy Organization (LIBTRALO).
Through God’s faithfulness, a transformative impact came from this crisis. Lutheran Bible Translators pivoted to an innovative strategy of fostering local ownership and engagement within the language group when no other options were available. Today, this groundbreaking approach has become the ideal standard and continues to be used by the Bible translation community in the modern era.
Highlights
- Stories from the Liberian Civil War are shared in reflection of the 60-year history of Lutheran Bible Translators.
- The civil war prompted the organization to prioritize local ownership of translation projects—an innovative decision.
- Learn more about LIBTRALO here
In this episode of Essentially Translatable, Rev. Rich Rudowske shares a sermon given at Concordia Seminary, St Louis on overcoming jealousy and the significance of maintaining a good reputation.
This sermon draws from Daniel chapter 6 and the Eighth Commandment with explanation from Luther’s Small Catechism. Rich reflects on personal anecdotes to illustrate the detrimental effects of jealousy and emphasizes the importance of protecting and honoring others' reputations as commanded in the Eighth Commandment.
Celebrating the success of others can help combat feelings of jealousy. By returning to the teachings of Jesus Christ, we find peace and fulfillment by bestowing a good name onto others.
Highlights
- Rev. Rich Rudowske delivers sermon on combatting jealousy.
- The sermon draws from Daniel 6 and the Eighth Commandment.
- We can follow the example of Jesus by honoring the reputation of others.
In this episode of the Essentially Translatable Podcast, Rich Rudowske engages in discussion with Rev. Dr. Douglas Rutt on the importance of cultural and contextual nuances when communicating the Gospel. Dr. Rutt has an impressive 40-year career serving in ministry. Most notably he has served as missionary to Guatemala, Director for International Ministries at Lutheran Hour Ministries, and Provost for Concordia Seminary in St. Louis.
The conversation delves into two concepts: syncretism—the tendency to mix non-Christian beliefs with Christian ideals, and contextualization—communicating God's Word in ways that resonate with a culturally diverse audience while maintaining the purity of the Gospel message.
These topics are informed by Dr. Rutt's extensive experience in international ministry, as well as his recent article, “Translation and Syncretism”, published in Concordia Journal in spring of 2023. This article explores the complexities of Bible translation, the significance of Scripture being available in one’s Mother-tongue, and the critical role of exegesis in both understanding the Word and the world.
Tune into learn how Dr. Rutt’s transition from commercial pilot to seminary student led to a life-changing experience as a missionary to Guatemala and his continued service in God’s kingdom.
Read “Translation and Syncretism” here.
Highlights
- Dr. Rutt and Rich discuss the recently published article “Translation and Syncretism”
- Dr. Rutt is a former missionary to Guatemala with 40 years of experience in ministry
- Two key terms: syncretism and contextualism, are discussed in relation to Bible translation.
How can a church congregation best provide care for a missionary abroad? On this episode of Essentially Translatable Rich Rudowske discusses the congregational care model with Shonna Ingram of Pioneer Bible Translators. Shonna serves as a Trauma Care Specialist, as well as a Career Transition Specialist with Pioneer Bible Translators. She has dedicated over 15 years to missionary care both on and off the field.
Shonna shares about her experience supporting missionaries overseas and how it has led her to create resources that discuss navigating life in transition. There are many unexpected challenges that impact the missionary journey. From family emergencies to unexpected cultural differences, there are many elements to a missionary’s daily-life that require prayer and support. Listen to learn about how churches or families can prioritize supporting missionaries through more than just financial gifts.
It is a great blessing to be able to invest in each other as supporters of God’s Mission. This episode highlights the many challenges missionaries face, the role of trauma care, the significance of congregational support, and practical ways to support missionaries.
Highlights
- Shonna Ingram works in the care department at Pioneer Bible Translators
- There are methods for effective congregational care that are more than just financial gifts.
- Shonna has conducted research into trauma care and the common ways missionaries experience trauma.
For this episode of the Essentially Translatable podcast, Rich sits down with Matt Kistler, the newest staff member to join the team at Lutheran Bible Translators. Matt serves as the Senior Measurement & Evaluation Analyst. He comes to Lutheran Bible Translators with education from Eastern University and experience working with Mission Mutual, the backbone organization for the illumiNations Collective Alliance. Listen in for a discussion on the importance of data metrics and how it can be used to measure the impact and outcome of programs.
During this conversation, Matt advocates for new ideas that are backed by data and measurement in order to recognize how God is at work in new ways. Like the parable of the fig tree in Luke 13: 6-9, there are challenges for prioritization within the Bible translation field. As an organization we can bear good fruit and foster a culture of learning and humility.
The ministry of Bible translation is in a season of growth and new opportunity. Listen to this episode to hear more about the drive to use data to inform ministry best practices.
Out of the 9 million visually impaired people in the United States, it is estimated that 95% of that population is unchurched. Daniel Jenkins, President for Lutheran Braille Workers is working to decrease that number by increasing access to Scripture through braille and large print bibles. For this episode of the Essentially Translatable podcast, Dr. Rich Rudowske and Daniel discuss the enduring hope found by making the Word of God accessible to everyone.
Daniel shares testimonies from blind and visually impaired individuals who got to experience Scripture through braille for the first time. To produce these bibles, countless hours of work are required by the devoted volunteers at Lutheran Braille Workers. This dedication has made Lutheran Braille Workers the largest producers of braille bibles and large print materials in the world. As the demand for Scripture has grown, the team at Lutheran Braille Workers has faithfully risen to meet the needs of everyone wanting to be served.
Lutheran Bible Translators and Lutheran Braille Workers have recently formed a partnership to help lower barriers to accessing Scripture. Listen as Rich and Daniel discuss the partnership between organizations to help others fully engage with God’s Word.
On this episode, Rich and Emily bring you to Papua New Guinea to hear a first-hand account of the energy behind the Bible translation movement. Join us for an insightful conversation with Ministry Entrepreneur Duncan Kasokason.
Duncan is a Bible translation consultant through the Bible Translation Association of Papua New Guinea. Starting in 1986, Duncan started to translate the Bible into his own language with pen and paper. Throughout the years, he has helped many others become involved in Bible Translation ministry. His passion is for all to have God's Word in their own language. Now he encourages others to get equipped to serve and experience the power of the Word through work in Bible translation.
Whether you are curious about the timeframe for Bible translation projects, or you want to learn more about how projects get started, Duncan provides invaluable knowledge gathered from many years of experience working with partners and equipping the next generation of Bible translators.
Highlights:
· Duncan Kasokason is a Bible translation consultant from Papua New Guinea
· Starting at age 30, Duncan has been involved in Bible translation since 1986
· Training others in Bible translation is important to Duncan, he anticipates the progress made by the next generation.
This week, we celebrate 100 episodes of Essentially Translatable! For this episode, co-hosts Dr. Rich Rudowske and Emily Wilson reminisce about some of their favorite moments from the past four years on the podcast.
The Essentially Translatable podcast has brought countless stories from the field, interviews with Ministry Entrepreneurs, and conversations with international partners. Join us as we reflect on the many profound, spiritual, and informative discussions throughout the years.
Hear something that sparks your interest? Click the links below to listen to the full episodes:
Episode 7: Modern Day Tower of Babel | Rev. Linus Otronyi
Episode 15: Luther’s Translation as Pastoral Care | Dr. Erik Herrmann
Episode 17: Multi-Lingual Identity | Dr. Ebenezer Boafo
Episode 26: Easter People
Episode 32: Go to the Deepest Water | Bishop Andrew Gulle
Episode 38: Speaking My Language | Rev. Dr. Tilahun Mendedo
Episode 41: Spirits, Charms, and Rituals | Dr. Mike Rodewald
Episode 49 and 50: Scripture Impact | Pontsho Mosweu and Tshwari Tjetjoo
Episode 52: The Final Episode
Episode 54: Lives are Changing | Mark & Marie
Episode 65: Empower the Church | Sarah Esala
Episode 84: Emotional Intelligence in Ministry | Michelle Thompson
Episode 86: The Curse of Knowledge | Rev. Dr. Ryan Tinetti
On this episode of the Essentially Translatable podcast, Rich and Emily are joined by John Ndemba and Rev. Mike Kuhn, who serve in the Bible translation movement in Cameroon and have recently become involved with the SURAM project. Rev. Kuhn fills the role of Data Analyst for SURAM, he also has served as a Missionary with Lutheran Bible Translators Canada in Cameroon since 2013. John Ndemba serves as the Project Coordinator for SURAM, he previously worked as Cluster Facilitator for the Cameroon Association for Bible Translation and Literacy within the Southwest region of Cameroon.
The SURAM (Scripture Use Research and Ministry) project in Cameroon started in 2022. During the two-year period it will gather research, the staff of SURAM hopes to measure the effects of translated scripture within the country. To accomplish this, the team is asking three main research questions:
- How much of the translated Scripture is being used by the language communities?
- What impact has translated Scripture had on the community, within the church congregation, and for the individual within that community?
- What factors are contributing to high use and impact and what factors are decreasing impact?
Cameroon is one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world. There are currently 270 living languages in the country. Scripture has been produced for about 50 of those languages, leaving roughly 220 languages that still have little to no Scripture. The linguistic context for Cameroon makes it an ideal candidate for a high-depth research project about how translated Scripture has been used so far within the country.
Between 2007 and 2017, 28 language communities dedicated newly translated Scripture. SURAM has been able to conduct ministry and research within 25 of those language communities. With data gathered from those interactions, as well as continued Scripture engagement with the community, the results from the project will help to mobilize Bible translation ministry moving forward.
Listen in to learn more about the international staff and collaborators working on this important project. Take hope in the informative outcomes of this study that will help further benefit the Bible translation movement!
Does God have one specific purpose in mind for you? Have you ever paused to examine the various roles God has assigned for you in life? In this episode of the Essentially Translatable podcast, Dr. Jeff Leininger and Dr. Rich Rudowske discuss our callings (plural) and how we can recognize them.
Dr. Leininger is the author of Callings for Life: God’s Plan, Your Purpose. He currently serves as pastor at First St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Chicago, IL, which follows his twenty-one years as the campus pastor and Director for the Pre-seminary program at Concordia University Chicago.
Join Jeff and Rich as they discuss the theology of vocation through the straightforward lens of recognizing the multiple callings God has chosen for us. By limiting ourselves to one calling, we can neglect the many opportunities that God has gifted us. To recognize these, we can take note of the spaces, the places, and the faces that surround us in our everyday moments.
Many of us are called to be spouses, parents, teachers, or managers. We can be impacted by the places we study, relax, or work. We are often called to be actively engaged in our occupations and communities. By embracing the multiple ways God has called us, finding our purpose in life can become less daunting and make it easier to recognize where God is leading us.
What comes to mind when you start to think about the callings God gave you rather than what you chose?
For this special holiday episode, join us for a reflective study on the power and promise given to us through the incarnation of Jesus Christ. Cozy up and dive into an in-depth conversation of how the complexities of Jesus’s incarnation are represented throughout different languages and translations.
Grab your favorite Bible translation and follow along as co-hosts Dr. Rich Rudowske and Emily Wilson lead you through different verses of the Bible. Did you know? In John 1:14 the Greek translation expresses how Jesus “tabernacled” among us, meaning he moves around and makes a home with us as our Savior on earth. Hear what the ancient translations say and get a side-by-side comparison with some of the newer English translations such as the New Living Translation.
In this episode, you’ll also get to learn more about the complexities that go into translating the bible. Rich provides firsthand insight into translating the book of Luke into the Shekgalagari language. The completion of this translation helped to solidify our close, personal relationship we have with Jesus for Shekgalagari speakers, and helped to explain how the gift of the incarnation is for all people.
See below for an example of a bible verse in two different translations:
But the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people.” Luke 2:10 NLT
Moengele a ba raya a re: “She tjhoge, bona, ke le jhwela mahogka owa a molemo, owa a da go ityumerisa batyho bothe.” Luke 2:10 Shekgalagari
For an informative study that will uplift and inspire you during the season of Christmas, tune in and experience the good news that continues to bring great joy.
In this episode, Rich and Emily are joined by Dr. James Maxey, Director of Strategic Partnerships for The Seed Company, and Dr. Nathan Esala, formerly Translations Coordinator for Lutheran Bible Translators—who has joined Seed Company as part of the strategic alliance between the two organizations. They discuss the power of partnerships across the Bible translation community.
We are in a season of collaboration at Lutheran Bible Translators to expand the Bible translation movement. As servants of Christ, we desire unity across the Church to make God's Word available to all people. During this interview, Maxey and Esala share their eagerness for this new exploration of partnership between the two organizations.
There are multiple benefits to joining in alliance with each other. Esala highlights Lutheran Bible Translators's many years of involvement in global communities and the resultant long-standing relationships. The Seed Company offers a fresh take on how to gain awareness for the mission of Bible translation. Specifically, Esala and Maxey are working with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea to make Bible translation a focused ministry in the country. Combining our efforts can lead to new accomplishments for God's Kingdom.
The connecting power of relationships is emphasized throughout the discussion. Maxey and Esala have a deep connection to Lutheran Bible Translators and to each other. Their entwined relationship throughout the years has motivated them to form this partnership.
Esala reminds us that one of the functions of Christianity involves building bridges between people of different cultures and experiences. Whether God has led us to foster partnerships in countries like Papua New Guinea or Cameroon, or we are embedded within our own communities in the United States, God desires us to learn continuously more from one another.
In this episode of Essentially Translatable, co-host Emily Wilson is interviewed by Rev. Rich Rudowske to discuss prayer as the strategy for the Bible translation movement. Emily works in the prayer working group for Lutheran Bible Translators and acts as the prayer point person for the illumiNations collective impact alliance. She shares valuable insight into why prayer is transformative to our lives and is exceedingly pleasing to God.
Join us to hear testimonials from both Rich and Emily about the profound impact prayer has had on their faith. For Emily, the importance of prayer became apparent at a young age during a family fishing trip. Throughout the highs and lows of life, Emily has kept prayer a key focus and accepted the answers God has given to her.
Prayer as the strategy is one of the Missiological Imperatives at Lutheran Bible Translators. Rich shares his intuition of making Lutheran Bible Translators a more prayerful organization before he realized the organization would take on specific prayer initiatives. To accomplish set goals, the prayer community is encouraged to have an ACTIVE prayer life:
A-adoration
C-confession
T- thanksgiving
I-intercession/supplication
V-vanquishing Satan
E-extreme prayer
The discussion highlights prayer-centered initiatives taking place within the organization, as well as the possibilities for those who would like to receive resources to pray alongside the organization. For Giving Tuesday 2023 we are raising prayer instead of focusing on financial gifts. If you would like to join us in raising 2 million yearly prayers, sign up below to become a Prayer Partner and join a global community of supporters!
The Lord longs to hear our prayers, no matter how big or small. By practicing strategies that equip us for extreme prayer, we can feel confident God will answer us by doing “immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine” (Ephesians 3:20).
Episode Resources
Extreme Prayer by Greg Pruett: https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-Prayer-Impossible-Prayers-Promises/dp/1414386249
Become a Prayer Partner: https://lbt.org/pray
Join us for a “fireside chat” approach in this episode, where Rich Rudowske, Executive Director + CEO, is joined by Paul Federwitz, Director for Fields Programs, for a vital conversation about the intersection of cutting-edge technology and the enduring practice of Bible translation.
The heart of our discussion lies in the relationship between human wisdom and AI's capabilities. While acknowledging AI's potential to enrich the translator's toolkit, our hosts dive further into the irreplaceable value of the human touch and community involvement in rendering Scripture's profound messages.
The conversation steers clear of technical jargon, offering a clear view of AI's role as a supportive ally rather than a replacement for human expertise. We address the excitement around tech advancements, alongside the careful considerations they demand, all in an accessible chat that will resonate whether you speak tech or are simply intrigued by the potential AI has in a variety of fields.
Tune in for a balanced discussion that weaves together the human experience, technology in communication, and the promising avenues of AI in Bible translation.
In this episode, we are joined by two staff members of Lutheran Bible Translators - David Federwitz, Regional Director for West Africa, and Calvin Inman, IT coordinator, who recently returned from Liberia. They discuss the importance of being physically present in their work and how technology is a tool for spreading God's truth.
The focus of the trip was to work with our partner, the Liberia Translation and Literacy Organization, LIBTRALO. LIBTRALO is working in a number of different languages focused primarily on literacy and Scripture engagement.
It’s challenging to keep up with the rapidly evolving and expanding technology landscape, even for IT professionals. In his IT role, Calvin interacts with a lot of our partners. To best serve partners, IT needs an intimate knowledge of the working environment, the equipment, the people, and more. Without that insight, it’s difficult to assess the best course of action when IT issues arise.
Cultural differences play a role too – Westen society is time-based and African society is often relationship-based. Technology and approach needs to adapt to each context. For this reason, it was critical to be there in person.
Calvin shared that the first day of the trip was simply getting to know the team, their background, where they live, their family, and more. Once the group opens up with each, it’s easier to open up about the issues they’re facing with technology. By the end of the trip, issues that have never been raised over the phone, we surfacing and Calvin was able to walk alongside them in fixing the issue.
It’s important to remember that behind every computer in the IT world is a person who is deeply loved by God. Technology is often associated with individuals sitting behind desks in isolation, but in reality, all aspects of IT involve working with people. Whether it's networking, software development, or PC support, the ultimate goal is to serve and support individuals. This perspective shapes their perception of IT work, it’s a means to serve and support God's people in their mission.
In this episode, we sit down with Rev. Chuck and Karen Tessaro, missionaries who have been serving in Nigeria since 1985. The Tessaros share their experiences working on translation projects and their transition to a role of consulting and equipping the church. They discuss the importance of putting God's word in people's hands (having served with Lutheran Bible Translators since 2003) and how it has led to new insights and a deeper understanding of faith.
The Tessaros are an inspiration in their reliance on God through prayer. Prayer is so much more than an individual practice; prayer can foster unity and acts as a collective effort to address challenges that arise in translation ministry.
Throughout their time in Nigeria, the Tessaros have lived amongst the community – going to market, sitting in conversation with, and praying with them. Nigeria has encountered significant times of suffering through war and food scarcity, and yet the Tessaros and many others they’ve impacted were able to stay mindful of the Lord’s presence and His provision.
Discover the power of God’s Word, the value of building relationships, and the impact of prayer in this enlightening episode.
Did you know? The number one reason missionaries leave the field is the lack of quality education for their children.
In this episode of Essentially Translatable, we welcome Deanne Gochanour, Lutheran Bible Translators missionary to Ethiopia. She teaches Bible and assists in the athletics department at Bingham Academy in Addis Ababa. Bingham serves missionary, local, and other expatriate students from KG1 (pre-K) through grade 12. By teaching at Bingham Academy, Deanne helps keep missionaries on the field by providing quality education for missionary kids.
Educating children of missionaries requires its own unique approach. The term “third culture kids” (TCK) refers to people raised in a culture other than their parents' or the culture of their country of nationality and also live in a different environment during a significant part of their child development years.
Deanne elaborates on her experience supporting TCKs, including creating the space for open expression of struggles, joys, and challenges.
Dive into this episode to learn more about missionary service as an educator and the unique experience of TCKs.
In this episode of Essentially Translatable, Ali Federwitz, Member Care Coordinator for Lutheran Bible Translators, joins the hosts to discuss the subject of trauma. We often refer to traumatic events that occur, but trauma is what we experience as a result of the event. There are “big T” traumas that are easier to recognize, but for many of us, especially missionaries and their families, there are “little T” traumas that can often go unnoticed.
As a blogger for A Life Overseas explains, “Trauma results from any event, series of events, or set of circumstances that is experienced by an individual as physically or emotionally harmful or life-threatening, and that has lasting negative impacts on a person's mental, physical, social, emotional, or spiritual well-being.” Knowing that – we can all see that we have experienced multiple traumas throughout life.
Dive into this episode to understand how to recognize trauma in your own life, but also understand the ways in which trauma can be processed – in good ways and bad.
Finally, let’s acknowledge that avoidance carries repercussions. Tune in to learn how member care and self-care are critical means toward applying healing to our life stories.
Resources mentioned include:
·
What is EMDR? https://www.emdr.com/what-is-emdr/
·
Book: The Grief Tower: A Practical Guide to Processing Grief with Third Culture Kids by Lauren Wells - https://www.amazon.com/Grief-Tower-Practical-Processing-Culture-ebook/dp/B08TRWY12R
·
Podcast Archive: Sabbath Rest https://lbt.org/sabbath-rest/
·
Podcast Archive: Healthy Approaches to Transition https://lbt.org/healthy-approaches-to-transition/
In this episode of the Essentially Translatable podcast, CEO Rich Rudowske and Emily Wilson
interview John Chesnut, the President and CEO of Wycliffe USA. They discuss the partnership
between Lutheran Bible Translators and Wycliffe Bible Translators, which has spanned over
several decades. They also touch on IllumiNations, a collective impact alliance, that bands
together the efforts of 11 organizations. John Chesnut shares insights into his background
and the importance of embracing multiple ways of working in the global Bible
translation movement.
Tune in to learn more about the mission and impact partnerships between translation agencies.
In this episode of the Essentially Translatable Podcast, Rich Rudowske and Emily Wilson interview Amy Formella, a Lutheran Bible Transators' missionary to Sierra Leone. Amy shares about her background, and current work with the Mende and Themne language communities and the importance of Bible translation in their lives.
Translators face a unique set of challenges that go beyond the scope of their work. Balancing personal and community responsibilities, managing health issues, and ensuring travel safety are just a few of the obstacles they encounter. Despite these challenges, translators persevere in their mission to translate the Bible, drawing on their resilience, wisdom, and determination to continue serving the Mende and Themne people.
Tune in to hear more about Amy's experiences as a missionary and the journey that brought her to where she is today.
In this episode of the Essentially Translatable Podcast, Emily Wilson interviews Sarah Esala, Lutheran Bible Translators’ regional director for Southern & East Africa + Pacific. Sarah shares her experiences and insights from her recent visit to Papua New Guinea (PNG), discussing the exponential effect of partnerships and excitement for Bible translation ministry within the PNG language communities. Sarah places emphasis on the trust that can be built through in-person interactions and stresses the importance of local training, continuing education, and community-drive Bible translation.
Tune in to hear about the Holy Spirit's work in this region and the unity among different languages.
In this episode, we talk to Rev. Dr. Ryan Tinetti about the curse of knowledge, a cognitive bias that makes it difficult to communicate effectively. We discuss how the curse of knowledge can affect our understanding of the Bible, our relationships with others, and our ability to share our faith. We also offer some tips for overcoming the curse of knowledge and communicating more effectively.
Listen to the episode now and learn how to overcome the curse of knowledge and communicate more effectively!
Louisa Lehenbauer, the Director for the Concordia Mission Institute (CMI), shares her background as a missionary kid and her journey to her current role. Louisa also talks about the importance of the CMI Summer Conference and the sense of community it provides for the missionary community.
Join us for an insightful conversation on engaging with humans across cultures, breaking down barriers, and the purposeful planning that went into this year’s CMI.
Michelle Thompson discusses emotional intelligence (aka EQ) and its importance in ministry and international contexts. Emotional intelligence is composed of four components: self-awareness, self-control, social awareness, and relationship management. Technical competence is not enough in ministry - being able to relate with people is crucial. Michelle shares effective methods for becoming more self-aware and developing your emotional intelligence, which can lead to positive changes in relationships and overall well-being.
Michelle serves as Director of the Executive Coaching and Consulting program in the Townsend Institute at Concordia University in Irvine, California.
Listen in as Michelle unpacks emotional intelligence and key methods for improving your own.
The partnerships of Lutheran Bible Translators connect on the international, national, and local levels as we serve alongside 131 language communities. Director for Field Programs Paul Federwitz shares his passion for investing in these partnerships to build capacity and establish self-sustainability for each language community.
Listen in as Paul casts his vision for expanding capacity for the Bible translation movement.
Listen in as we continue our series featuring the new leadership at Lutheran Bible Translators. In this episode, we feature Angela Tayloe, the Director of Operations and Chief Financial Officer.
Angela is tasked with overseeing the financial integrity of the organization, including navigating the various government regulations around the world. Listen in for a discussion focused on the unique aspects of nonprofit ministry and the importance of financial transparency.
Lutheran Bible Translators has a vision for vibrant Christian communities to be deeply rooted in God’s Word and engaging fully in His mission. We want to see this vision accomplished in this generation!
To make this vision a reality, the leadership team asked: What is crucial? What must we do as we serve in God’s mission?
A man. A legion of demons. A herd of pigs. And Jesus.
Rev. Dr. Rich Rudowske recounts how a Ghanaian community heard this Gospel account for the first time, which led to compassion and transformation.
Tim grew up in Africa, but this was Erin’s first time to the continent! Missionaries Rev. Tim & Deaconess intern Erin Schulte shared about their recent visit to Cameroon to meet the Subula language community, who they will serve alongside in 2024.
Walk with them as they reflect on their recent trip. And hear their anticipation for the journey ahead of serving in God’s mission in Cameroon.
Both Eshinee Veith and Ruthie Wagner have served with Lutheran Bible Translators for over a decade. But their recent trip to Tanzania was full of new experiences as they served alongside translation teams!
Listen in as Eshinee and Ruthie unpack the significance of investing in mission-minded leaders in the Bible translation movement.
From the time she was a little girl, Alyssa Petty has understood the impact of stewarding God’s gifts well.
Alyssa began serving as Director for Development at Lutheran Bible Translators on January 1st, but she has been with the organization since 2019.
Hear her story and why she’s passionate about getting men and women involved in the Bible translation movement through prayer, advocacy, and giving.
Seth Hinz just joined the team at Lutheran Bible Translators as Director for Branding + Marketing!
For over 14 years, he has worked alongside churches, schools, universities, districts, and national ministries to develop messaging and marketing strategies. He is a founder of the resource Facebook group Lutheran Communicators, and he became a StoryBrand Certified Guide in 2019.
To get in touch with Seth for your story sharing needs, visit sethhinz.com.
Lutheran Bible Translators’ missionaries are committed to partnering alongside translation teams to put God’s Word in their hands in the language they know best. Scripture is more than words. It brings hope, life, and transformation.
Listen in as Rev. Dr. Michael Megahan shares about his service in God’s mission with language communities in Botswana and Tanzania since 2004.
Opportunities are emerging to connect with language communities without Scripture. Founder of They Need the Bible Rev. Andrew Olson describes how technology and innovative methods are building bridges to hard-to-reach regions of the world to translate God’s Word.
Keeping with tradition and updating for the next innovative period in the Bible translation movement.
Millions of people remain in the dark as to what God’s Word actually says. Hope is found in the light of Scripture when it is accessed in a language that they understand best. Lutheran Bible Translators’ new logo shows that movement from darkness to light, through the Word and into the world.
Listen in as Creative Lead Caleb Rodewald unpacks the new look of Lutheran Bible Translators.
Scripture is more than words.
When passionate local leaders are equipped with the resources, time, and capacity, more language communities will be reached with God’s Word. More people will experience the hope, life, and transformation that Scripture brings.
In this episode, Executive Director Dr. Rich Rudowske casts the vision for More Than Words – a Campaign for Scripture Impact.
It's that time of year! Cozy up by the fire or in your favorite chair and take a Christmas tour around the world with Lutheran Bible Translators.
Lutheran Bible Translators’ Executive Director elect, Dr. Rich Rudowske, explores four responses to Advent and Christ’s Second Coming.
Gain perspective beyond daily life to see more of how God is working.
Lutheran Bible Translators’ missionaries recount the amazing sights and sounds of Scripture dedications around the world. Listen in to the stories of impact as people received God’s Word for the first time in their own language.
Discover a new tool for digging into God’s Word! TIPs (Translation Insights and Perspectives) is a free database to see how language communities around the world are translating Scripture.
Rich and Emily interviewed TIPs Creator Jost Zetzsche in this episode to learn how the Church can gain insight, perspective, and enrichment from Bible translation efforts.
"In 2018 the Kalanga full Bible was translated and there was much rejoicing. And the Lost Book has now returned to the Kalanga people." — Dr. Mike Rodewald
Dr. Mike Rodewald served alongside the Kalanga language community in Botswana in the 1990s and early 2000s. Kalanga people explained to Bible translation missionaries that they were waiting for the Lost Book to return.
Watch The Lost Book (Kalanga) video.
“It’s not widely talked about, but I think stress is one of the biggest threats to overall health.” — Valerie Federwitz
Lutheran Bible Translators’ Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Valerie Federwitz provides support for missionaries and staff in discussing their wellness concerns and goals.
“And it’s the church that is owning this and doing this, which is exciting. We’re joining them and the Spirit of God and the work that is being done there.” — Sarah Esala
Sarah Esala serves as the Regional Director for Southern and Eastern Africa, Southeast Asia, and Papua New Guinea. She works with international partners to engage in Bible translation, literacy, and Scripture engagement activities so that God’s Word can be made known in relevant and clear ways.
“We want to see God’s Word, especially in the minority languages of Nigeria. We believe that if people have God’s Word in their language, then their lives will be transformed.” — Rev. Kierien Ayugha
Rev. Kierien Ayugha is an ordained pastor in the Lutheran Church of Nigeria, a Bible Translation Consultant in training and serves as an International Associate with Lutheran Bible Translators.
He currently serves as lecturer/professor in the Linguistics and Bible Translation Department at the Theological College of Northern Nigeria, training the next generation of Bible Translators for work in Nigeria and surrounding countries.
Kierien is currently studying for his PhD degree in Narrative Discourse Analysis at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.
Hear what God is doing in Nigeria through Bible translation in this interview with Rev. Kierien Ayugha.
“The opportunity to work with national colleagues — the work on one hand to teach them but on the other hand to learn from them. The greatest joy is to see some of the things that I taught them they are following up on it. Now they are teaching me as they carry on the work in the different fields.” — Dr. Ernst R. Wendland
Dr. Ernst R. Wendland served as an instructor at the Lutheran Seminary in Lusaka, Zambia, as well as a United Bible Societies Translation Consultant.
He is the author of numerous studies on the Bantu languages of South-Central Africa, biblical exegesis, literary-poetic analysis, rhetorical criticism, and translation theory and practice.
Enjoy this podcast with Dr. Wendland reflecting on a lifetime of ministry.
“Often with being a third-culture kid (T.C.K.) comes the ability to understand lots of different people. But it also comes with lots of inner struggle about where we belong.” — Hannah Federwitz
Hannah and Eden Federwitz joined the podcast with unique T.C.K. insights. Listen to their stories about growing up in Ghana and their preparation for life in Ethiopia.
“Pray that they will grow in their faith – those who know the Lord. And that those who don’t know the Lord will come to know Him through His Word.” — Janet Borchard
Hear stories from three continents as Bible translation advisor Janet Borchard shares her heart for people having God’s Word in their own language.
“The church here will be able to really be a leader in Bible translation in the future in this region, in Ethiopia, and projects outside of the country.” — Dr. Jim Kaiser
Join the celebration with the Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus at the dedication of the Bible Translation Training Building.
The momentous occasion was paired with the graduation of students from the Bible translation training program and the first Bible Week celebrated in Ethiopia.
The Ethiopia missionary team – Dr. Jim and Susan Kaiser and Dr. Chris and Janine Pluger – reflected with Dr. Rich Rudowske on all the events of June 2022.
“I tell people: you are equally as important as anyone on the field, because you’re the ones that keep us there.” — Alvina Federwitz
Listen in as Mission Participation Coordinator Alvina Federwitz describes her experience with Lutheran Bible Translators and its supporters through the decades.
“I actually think what was important during that time was sitting down with people in their house and having a meal. That’s where the trust was built. That’s where the relationship was built. And that radically changed how I was able to work with them.” — Paul Federwitz
Lutheran Bible Translators’ Chief Information Officer and Assistant Director for Program Ministries, Paul Federwitz, shares his insights about healthy team principles in multicultural settings.
Don’t miss this episode!
Lutheran Bible Translators’ Executive Director Elect Rev. Dr. Rich Rudowske becomes the interviewee — sharing his research and insights in Bible translation.
"But when God’s Word is translated into another language, it enhances the whole Christian Church’s understanding of God’s love in a whole different way – in a whole different meaning.”
Be inspired as you listen to Rev. David Federwitz, Regional Director for West Africa. His energy and passion for God’s mission is contagious.
"Luther knew from his own experience, as well as from the testimony of Scripture, how powerful and life giving the written words of God are and what a firm confidence they give us in Christ and His plans and promises for us." — President Thomas Egger
Celebrate the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther’s translation of the New Testament into the vernacular German. President Thomas Egger of Concordia Seminary St. Louis shares about the foundational nature and authority of Scripture. People have confidence in Christ as they receive God’s Word in their own language.
Follow Mark and Marie’s* story in God’s mission. Discover how the Lord is working even in the hard-to-reach regions of the world.
*Due to the sensitivity of their work, pseudonyms have been used.
“Things can be set right with God. Reconciliation can happen. And it all finds its place in the resurrection.”
Celebrate the joy we have after Christ’s resurrection — living into our identity as Easter people!
Dr. Rich Rudowske shares the theological and cultural implications of resurrection in biblical history and present day.
“So, it’s been a lot of fun on the podcast, and we just wanted to share some of the good times with you here.” — Rev. Rich Rudowske
We’re so thankful for all our Essentially Translatable listeners! Please enjoy “The Final Episode!”
...and Happy April Fool’s!
The Khwe people of Botswana lived in fear of their ancestors’ curses. God’s Word was not accessible to them in their language to receive the light of Scripture.
A panoramic Bible, which shares passages of both the Old and New Testaments, will be released later this year in the Khwedam language. Rev. Dr. Tim Beckendorf shares the importance of Scripture to bring peace and hope to the Khwe people to drive out fear.
Shekgalagari is spoken by a people group living in the Kalahari Desert. It was not a written language until the Bible translation program started. Now, people are engaging with Scripture in their own language and understanding it.
In Essentially Translatable’s 50th episode, Tshwari Tjetjoo shares about the joys and challenges as a translator with the Shekgalagari Bible translation program and the impact of Scripture for the Bakgalagari people.
The Bakgalagari people in Botswana have been eager for God’s Word in their own language!
Deaconess Pontsho Mosweu shares about her journey as a translator with the Shekgalagari Bible translation program and the impact of Scripture in her community.
The Living Water project is the first of its kind. The New Testament is sung chapter by chapter to a film-score musical genre — word for word, the English Standard Version (ESV) of Scripture.
Listeners experience Scripture in this immersive, uplifting production. Go behind the Living Water recording experience with Grammy Award-winning vocalist and Living Water contributor Khristian Dentley.
Living Water is produced for the Bible translation movement in association with Lutheran Bible Translators.
Training for missionary service through Lutheran Bible Translators focuses on developing a deeper understanding of language and preparing for service on multicultural teams.
Go behind the scenes with Training Coordinator Eshinee Veith and Missionary-in-Training Tiffany Smith. Discover how Lutheran Bible Translators preps missionaries for international service.
We celebrate the incarnation of the Son – fully God and fully man – at Christmas.
Dive in as Director for Program Ministries Rev. Rich Rudowske shares how the Bible must also be incarnate in the language people understand best.
Cozy up by the fire or your favorite chair and take a Christmas tour around the world.
Enjoy this Christmas special from 2020 as missionaries and staff share their stories about traditions and family, the Word in action, Scripture coming alive, and what Christmas is all about.
"One of the wonderful things about Christmas is to give… God gave us our greatest need and gave it to us lavishly." – Rev. Rich Rudowske
How can the Bible be authoritative if we aren’t sure we have the “right one”?
In this episode:
- An Introduction to Textual Criticism
- What You’ll Find at the Museum of the Bible
- Electrifying Impact of Luther’s New Testament
Dr. Jeff Kloha is the Chief Curatorial Officer at the Museum of the Bible. He manages the Museum of the Bible Education, Scholars Initiative, Exhibits, Curatorial, and Collections departments.
Enjoy another holiday storytelling medley from missionaries. Flexibility and laughter are the key ingredients as they celebrate holidays away from ‘’home”. They’ve learned how to improvise and make the most of their favorite recipes and pastimes with an untraditional twist.
Generations of Aramaic speakers without the written Word are disconnected from their culture and God. Aramaic Bible Translation brings the Word of God to Aramaic speakers and connects them to their roots in the Christian faith.
"I see people growing in the knowledge of the Word. People are reading the Word of God and understanding it. And I see so many communities connecting. We see the love of God growing in the churches for each other coming together as one Body.” —Demsin Lachin
Demsin Lachin serves on the Assyrian Bible translation team to make God's Word accessible to neo-Assyrian language communities.
Rob Hilbert serves as the Executive Director for Aramaic Bible Translation.
“Anytime… our action must be first for God to respond [to us], then we point away from that very core of what is the Gospel message."—Dr. Mike Rodewald
Dr. Mike Rodewald serves as the Executive Director for Lutheran Bible Translators. Mike has a Ph.D. in missiology from Concordia Theological Seminary.
“I can recall hearing Scripture differently. I don’t remember hearing those words in pretty common verses. I felt like I was experiencing it differently.” — Peter Prochnow
Experience Scripture through the Living Water project!
Peter Prochnow is the Director of Worship and Music at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Oviedo, Florida. He partnered with Lutheran Bible Translators in 2020 to produce the Living Water project.
“We’re going to be singing Hallelujahs. And we’ve got some songs right there in Revelation of what we’re going to sing. We’re going to hear that in so many of the languages that LBT is working in today. New saints in heaven singing of the salvation that comes through Jesus Christ.” –Brent Smith
Executive Development Officer Rev. Dr. Brent Smith began service with Lutheran Bible Translators in August 2021.
Brent graduated from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis and earned a Doctor of Ministry degree from Trinity International University in 2011. He is excited to network with congregations and individuals to invite people to be part of God’s story of salvation through the Bible translation movement.
“I want every Christian on planet Earth just to open the Bible and read a verse and say, ‘Thank you, Lord, because you are speaking to me through Thy Word. And God, You are speaking my language.’ I want them to speak that out loud, because we are privileged. And many, many people are out there without the Word of God.”
Rev. Dr. Tilahun Mendedo serves as the Executive Development Officer of Lutheran Bible Translators.
Tilahun draws on his experiences and relationships in Ethiopia and the USA. He is delighted to serve God by making His Name known to those who have never had the Bible in a language they understand.
“Asking questions and clarifying what the Bible is saying is an integral part of Bible translation ministry, as well. Even in the process of translating it, people are asking questions about how is this going to be understood, how will these words come across. It just really sharpens to always be looking at Scripture from the perspective of always asking questions.” – Rev. Rich Rudowske
It is “Round Two” for the Ask-a-Pastor episode on Essentially Translatable!
Students from Saint Paul Lutheran High School submitted questions about the Bible and Christianity to be answered on the podcast.
Pastor Lange and Pastor Rudowske share their insights to some of life’s tough questions.
Pastor Tom Lange teaches religion and apologetics at Saint Paul Lutheran High School.
“I thought that everybody was reached by the language. And so, I felt comfortable that everything was done. During these three years, I have gotten exposure to the grassroots people, especially the different small groups, who have their own vernacular. These people have no other access to the Word of God” –Dr. Berhanu Ofgaa
Rev. Dr. Berhanu Ofgaa serves as Lutheran Bible Translators’ Programs Director in Ethiopia. Previously, he served as General Secretary for the Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus (EECMY). Lutheran Bible Translators and the EECMY partner together for the expansion of Bible translation work in Ethiopia.
“One of the really key things of the Reformation that Luther did was to take the Scriptures, which had been inaccessible, and to make them available in a language they knew, and they could hear the Lord speaking to them in a meaningful way.” –President Lawrence Rast
Rev. Dr. Lawrence R. Rast Jr. serves as the sixteenth president of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Indiana, and professor of American Christianity and American Lutheranism.
“When that Word is put in the language that I learned at my mother's knee, that I grew up with, that I understand to my core, and I hear God’s Word coming to me, that’s my God.” –Rev. Dave Brezina
Rev. Dave Brezina serves at Messiah Lutheran Church near Boston, Massachusetts. His congregation celebrated Bible Translation Sunday in 2020. Discover the impact.
Access this year’s Bible Translation Sunday resources at lbt.org/bts.
"From day zero, it was a community effort. There were so many people who were fired up about what we were doing. And so many people wanted to be involved.” –Dr. Chris Pluger
Dr. Chris & Janine Pluger served in Zambia and helped complete the Nsenga New Testament. Now they are headed to Ethiopia to serve in multiple Bible translation projects. They have plenty of stories to share.
“When people lose hope, it is time for the Gospel. It is time to plant the faith. We have seen also people, who are coming to Jesus. Because when people despair, they need encouragement.” – Bishop Andrew Gulle
Bishop Andrew Gulle leads the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Tanzania’s East of Lake Victoria Diocese (ELCT-ELVD). The Lutheran Church of Tanzania is the second largest Lutheran church body in Africa. Lutheran Bible Translators partners with the ELVD in the Kerewe Bible translation program.
Many churches do not know about the ongoing need for Bible translation. Millions of people are still without Scripture in a language they understand. Join the Bible translation movement to put God’s Word in their hands.
Mark your calendar. Sign up to receive resources! Bible Translation Sunday is September 26th this year (lbt.org/bts).
Dr. Reed Lessing is this year’s sermon contributor for Bible Translation Sunday. He is the Director of the Center for Biblical Studies, a professor at Concordia University St. Paul, and the author of several Old Testament commentaries.
Heidi Goehmann is an author, licensed clinical social worker, deaconess, and mental health advocate. Heidi serves on Lutheran Bible Translators' Board of Directors and is passionate about God's Word in the hands of people everywhere.
“That is what the Bible does for us. It helps root out all that internal stuff so that God can begin to heal and redeem and restore.”
Show Notes
Dr. Bruk Ayele serves as president of Mekane Yesus Seminary in Ethiopia. Explore with him. Listen to Bible translation as mission within the largest Lutheran church body in the world.
"Part of that mission …is bringing the Good News to someone in their heart language. So, if our missionaries are Bible translators, …we believe that that mission will be very effective.” – Dr. Bruk Ayele
Rob Hilbert is the Executive Director of Aramaic Bible Translation and missionary with Lutheran Bible Translators. He previously served as a missionary with LBT in Sierra Leone and Botswana.
“It was the language that Jesus spoke in and would have communicated in. So, it has been around for a long time. The [Aramaic] languages we currently work in are descendants of that language.” – Rob Hilbert
Students had questions, and the pastors had answers.
Pastor Tom Lange teaches religion including Christian apologetics at Saint Paul Lutheran High School.
Listen in to stories of Easter from around the world. Laugh, ponder, and rejoice!
“We’re celebrating, we’re remembering that again – that day. But on the other hand, there’s not a day that has gone by since that first Easter day where that statement isn’t true for all of humanity. Jesus Christ is risen today. And that changes everything.” – Rev. Rich Rudowske
Mart Green is the Ministry Investment Officer for Hobby Lobby and the founder of Mardel Christian and Education Supply stores with a heart for putting God's Word in their hands.
“We just said let’s come together. What can we do together in unity – in oneness – that we couldn’t do by ourselves? The big, big goal was to eradicate Bible poverty.”
-Mart Green
Martin and Joan spent over 30 years in Cameroon, West Africa engaged in Bible translation ministry. Discover what it means to follow God’s call and witness lives transformed by the Gospel.
“And so, I surrendered it to God after that. I said, “God, you gave it to me. You can have it back.” –Joan Weber
Michaela Federwitz grew up in West Africa as a Missionary Kid with Lutheran Bible Translators, offering her a unique “third-culture kid” perspective. She will soon return to West Africa to serve as a nanny for the children of LBT-Canada's missionaries Rev. Mike and Kara Kuhn.
“The more effort you put into actually caring and getting to know that TCK, the more open they’ll be with you and the more they’ll feel comfortable.”
Support Michaela’s ministry at https://lbt.org/project/michaela-federwitz/.
“Once upon a time…” The phrase may sound beautiful, but it would not be an accurate way to begin the story of Jesus’s birth. Now try to begin to imagine all the struggles of translating in another culture and language! Join Dr. Becky Grossmann and co-hosts, Emily Wilson and Rich Rudowske, to discuss the idea of discourse, why it’s important, implementation and outcomes in translations, and the joy found in God’s Word.
“When you’re translating, you want to make sure that you’re using features that are natural in their language...” – Dr. Becky Grossmann, Bible translation consultant, Lutheran Bible Translators
Rest. God rested after creation, a sign of completion and abundance. We can rest in God’s abundance and be completely dependent on Him. How do we rest? What does it look like? Join Ali Federwitz and co-hosts, Emily Wilson and Rich Rudowske, to discuss the idea of Sabbath rest, spiritual health, and how we can clue our bodies, friends, families into knowing that it is time for rest.
“He has given me His abundance, His completeness. And I am trusting that in Him all things are complete.” – Ali Federwitz, member care coordinator, Lutheran Bible Translators
What is God calling you to do? We can’t begin to wrap our minds around the totality of God’s mission. This episode of the LBT sermon series is based in part on Genesis 12:1-3 and originally delivered at Concordia Seminary St. Louis, MO one week before the entire nation shut down for Coronavirus. Join Emily Wilson and Rich Rudowske to discuss life at times of upheaval, and the reminder that God is always in control and has called us into His mission.
Thank you to Concordia Seminary for the sermon audio: Rudowske, Richard, "084. Genesis 12:1-9" (2020). Chapel Sermons Academic Year 2019-2020. 89. https://scholar.csl.edu/cs1920/89
“When we say ‘Lord, lead. I will follow,’ we are going to go some places that we didn’t plan on going. And that we will be stretched beyond our comfort and find that only in our reliance on God can we have peace. And it certainly won’t be by our own reason or what we can figure out or manage.” – Rev. Rich Rudowske, chief operating officer, Lutheran Bible Translators
Cozy up by the fire or your favorite chair and take a Christmas tour around the world. Celebrate Christmas Lutheran Bible Translator style! What do you love about Christmas? Context, memories, food, decorations, culture… What makes Christmas seem complete? Join Emily Wilson and Rich Rudowske to discuss traditions and family, the Word in action, Scripture coming alive, and what Christmas is all about.
"One of the wonderful things about Christmas is to give… God gave us our greatest need and gave it to us lavishly." – Rev. Rich Rudowske, chief operating officer, Lutheran Bible Translators
God’s Word in people’s hands and hearts. Removing barriers and transforming lives. Join Rev. Carl and Kelsey Grulke and host, Rich Rudowske to discuss mission work and family, especially life with bigger families, scripture engagement strategy, cross-culture living, and so much more.
"This is God's Word that transforms lives! And we want to make sure that whatever resources are needed are available and are easily accessible for the people that need them." – Kelsey Grulke, Scripture Engagement missionary, Lutheran Bible Translators
– “Imagine what it means to have God’s Word in the language of your heart! …I think [Lutheran Bible Translator’s] work is the first step in any mission field.” Dr. Wayne Braun shares perspectives of partnering with Lutheran Bible Translators and God’s leading in life. Join Dr. Braun and host, Rich Rudowske to discuss gratitude, mission work and family, lay missions, changes over the last 20 years, translation partnerships, how God reaches hearts, and so much more.
"The most important tool that a pastor, or a missionary, or a church worker, or a lay leader, or a Bible Class teacher has is the Scripture." – Dr. Wayne Braun, senior pastor, Fishers of Men Lutheran Church, Sugarland, TX and board member, Lutheran Bible Translators
What does it mean to be able to read God’s Word in your heart language? Rev. John Bundor shares about literacy efforts in Sierra Leone and the life-changing role of God’s Word in this ministry. Join Pastor Bundor and host, Rich Rudowske to discuss many topics, including: a typical literacy program, the necessity of the written word along with the ability to read, and why investing in Sierra Leone literacy efforts is worth your time and money.
"But when you communicate to them in their own language, they will grasp the Gospel with their two hands." – Rev. John Bundor, president of Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church of Sierra Leone, and literacy coordinator with The Institute of Sierra Leone Literacy (TISLL)
Martin Luther once wrote “I wish that every village had its own interpreter and that this book alone would live in the hands, eyes, ears, and hearts of all people.” Dr. Erik Herrmann talks to us about the role of Bible translation during the Reformation and today. Join Dr. Herrmann and host, Rich Rudowske to discuss keeping scripture at the center of it all, pastoral care, social media versus the printing press, and more.
“Luther decides pretty early on when he discovers the Gospel that the thing that is going to reform the church is not him.” – Dr. Erik Herrmann
What is the best way to plan for strategic transitions? Dr. Mike Rodewald shares memories of the last five years with Lutheran Bible Translators, including the move to Concordia, Missouri. Join Dr. Mike and host, Rev. Rich Rudowske to discuss ministry challenges, building reserves, being strategic instead of reactive, looking to the future, and more.
“How can we survive and thrive?” – Dr. Mike Rodewald
You might have felt the urge to “do something” for missions. Dr. Jim & Susan Kaiser share their story of similar urging and of God’s provision and leading. Join the Kaisers and host, Rev. Rich Rudowske to discuss translation consulting, God’s faithfulness, finding a helpmate and partner, raising a family on the mission field, and more.
“God did His thing and used me for His purposes.”
– Susan Kaiser
Where does identity come from? Dr.Boafo brings years of field experience and training to multi-lingual ministry during this conversation about opportunities and challenges when engaging African churches in Bible translation. Join the Rev. Dr. Ebenezer Boafo and host, Rev. Rich Rudowske to discuss local language engagement, local theologizing, and so much more.
“Take advantage of their way of life to spread the Gospel.”
– Dr. Ebenezer Boafo, 1st Vice President, Evangelical Lutheran Church Ghana
What makes the Word of God “Essentially Translatable”? Join Rev. Rich Rudowske as he talks with Troy Neujahr and Craig Donofrio of For You Radio to explain the importance of this specialized missionary work.This podcast was originally recorded and released by 1517.org on the For You Radio podcast. To find out more about 1517 and their podcasts, visit 1517.org. Produced by Lutheran Bible Translators and For You Radio.
“The Word of God and the Holy Spirit working through that is powerful. And where that is absent how can that church be effective and really take root?"
– Rev. Rich Rudowske, Chief Operating Officer, Lutheran Bible Translators
What would our congregations look like without God’s Word? How can you involve your congregation in Bible translation? Bible Translation Sunday is a time to join congregations across the world in this life-changing mission. Join Rev. Michael Pottschmidt and host, Rev. Rich Rudowske to discuss mission at home, the craft of preaching, the larger view of God’s work in the world, and the joys and struggles in ministry and family life. "When we focus on our mission and purpose, then those other pieces begin to fall into place" – Rev. Michael Pottschmidt
Have you wondered how a family goes about serving in the mission field? How does God use times of preparation and even struggle? God leads His servants on long and winding roads to do His mission!
Join Elliot and Serena Derricks and host, Rev. Rich Rudowske to discuss language communities, language fluency, joy in their work, and more.
Have you ever considered being a missionary? How about an internship to see if this is the right fit? You could learn so much about God's presence everywhere! Join Tiffany Smith and guest host, Emily Wilson to discuss some of what's packed into a Lutheran Bible Translators missionary internship, how much can be learned and gained, and more.
How many languages can one country contain? Nigeria has 515! How much work is there still to do in bridging the gaps and bringing the Word of God to these communities in their own language? Join Rev. Linus Otronyi and host, Rev. Rich Rudowske to discuss the first requirement in all mission, minority languages, and more.
Is music a universal language? What is the value in setting Scripture to music? Consider the power of engaging through composing your own Scripture songs. Join Rob and Eshinee and host, Rev. Rich Rudowske to discuss linguistics, ethno-musicology, and so much more!
Scripture Songwriting Info Request Form
How do you deal with times of uncertainty? Seeking God in His Word in times of struggle is the sure answer. There is no greater comfort! Join host, Rev. Rich Rudowske as he delivers this special sermon message in a bonus episode.
Have you ever thought about being a missionary? Emily Wilson, Mission Mobilization Coordinator for Lutheran Bible Translators, talks to people about this topic all the time. Join Emily and host, Rev. Rich Rudowske, to discuss internships, the Scriptural foundation for missions, and so much more!
How do you deal with change? Everyone experiences trauma - to different degrees. Join Ali Federwitz, Member Care Coordinator for Lutheran Bible Translators, and host, Rev. Rich Rudowske, to discuss transitions, reasonable expectations, communication and so much more!
Podcast Notes
Join host Rev. Rich Rudowske and guest, Jim Laesch, Lutheran Bible Translators (LBT) Regional Director as they discuss the historical work of Bible translation. Jim will also share about work happening in southern and east Africa, offering a variety of stories from more than 46 years of experience.
In our inaugural episode, we interview Lutheran Bible Translators CEO, Dr. Mike Rodewald. We take a look at what mission was like then and now.