Wycliffe Associates is leveraging Starlink satellite internet to dramatically accelerate Bible translation efforts in isolated areas, providing unprecedented connectivity for national translators working in some of the world’s most challenging environments.
“We have thoroughly tested the technology over the past year, and we recently launched Starlink with a few Bible translation teams in very remote areas in Southeast Asia,” said Mark Stedman, Vice President of Technology.
Fox News reported a similar use of Starlink, noting how satellite internet has become crucial for missionaries communicating in remote locations. The technology enables video calls and secure internet connections for translators who previously had limited communication options.
Starlink provides internet speeds comparable to ground-based services, allowing translators to upload and protect their work from potential destruction in regions with intense religious persecution.
During the fiscal year from September 2023 to August 2024, Wycliffe Associates distributed 219,444 Bibles, continuing their mission of empowering local believers to translate Scripture into their native languages.
“This is going to make a tremendous impact in terms of encouraging translators, helping them with theological questions, and having that consistent connection where you can actually speak on the telephone as opposed to having to rely on a text message or an email,” said a Wycliffe Associates staff member.
The organization’s strategy focuses on equipping local believers with technology, including laptops loaded with custom Bible translation software and access to comprehensive translation resources.
The Wall Street Journal has previously highlighted the challenges faced by missionaries in remote regions, making technological innovations like Starlink increasingly crucial for global translation efforts.
–Dwight Widaman and Luke