The translation has been done and now it is up to the Bible Society’s Translation Consultant, Dr Carl Gross to painstakingly work through the text to ensure it is accurate.

“Indigenous scriptures should be as accurate a reflection of the original language versions as is humanly possible” says Phil Zamagias, National Manager of Bible Society’s Remote and Indigenous Ministry Support portfolio. “There are 260 chapters in the New Testament and each one will get a thorough check from Carl and then be subject to a series of workshops with Kunwinjku speakers to ensure readability and comprehension”.

However, the work is always being tested. “Every week I send the Bible readings to Rev’d Lois Nadjamerrek, who is the Anglican Minister at Oenpelli, for use in their church services” says Rev’d Dr Steve Etherington, a CMS Missionary and Bible translator.

The readings are sent to the community via fax, printed out and read out on Sunday. Lois is very happy to receive them because she has been involved in the translation work for three decades. She is very keen to have the whole New Testament available for her people and excitement is building as the project enters its last phase.

Phil Zamagias had the privilege of flying Lois to remote aboriginal communities in West Arnhem Land in the early nineties when the first Epistle in the Kunwinjku language was being field tested. The Book of Ephesians was enthusiastically received and people were amazed at how the scriptures address everyday life as well as recording salvation history.

The Kunwinjku scriptures project has taken 30 years so far.

Tamworth is an unlikely place to be planning the next major publication of indigenous scriptures for the Northern Territory, but that is what happened a few weeks ago.

Steve Etherington is now based in Tamworth, NSW. After 30 years in the Northern Territory, Steve and Narelle Etherington have relocated to the beautiful NSW city famous for its boot-scooting and vibrant churches. Family reasons made the move necessary but the work of checking a Bible translation is not dependant on geography, so Steve remains a key part of the Kunwinjku team.

“Sitting now with Steve and planning the next two years leading up to the completion of this New Testament, one can’t help marvel at the faithfulness of God and His people who have prayed, cared for and given sacrificially so that the Kunwinjku people can hear God speak to them in the language that touches their hearts,” Zamagias says.

Please pray that these last stages will proceed smoothly and that the whole body of Christ may rejoice when the day comes for this New Testament to be dedicated to God and handed over to His people.

Please consider how you may help this process along by giving towards the costs of finalising this project. It will be the only New Testament in West Arnhem Land and is keenly awaited by a church waiting to thrive.

You can support this project by donating here.