Sign languages make up about 20% of the 2,000+ languages around the world that lack translated Scripture. I did not know anything about Bible translation for sign languages before becoming a Wycliffe missionary. This need is so important and I am thankful to now know about it and be able to share this newfound awareness."According to the Deaf Bible Society, there are over 400 known sign languages in use around the world today. Yet not one of these has a full Bible in their language and only 5 percent of sign languages even have Bible translation work started. (https://www.wycliffe.org/prayer/how-to-pray-for-sign-language-translation)"
There is much work to be done around the world in Bible translation. Many different approaches are needed. Many language groups have distinct needs for how the Bible is translated and distributed to them. Wycliffe has many missionaries researching these needs so that Scripture can be well received and well used once it is translated. Audio recordings of Scripture, visual recordings, Bible study materials, and much more are needed by communities around the world.
It's been humbling to just begin to learn about these needs. I am thankful to be able to come alongside the work in prayer and as a fellow Wycliffe missionary. Prayer is needed for more workers, physical and spiritual provision, and open hearts to receive the Gospel. His Word is given and we strive for translation and accessibility for all language groups "that [they] may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing [they] may have life in His name. (John 20:31)"The video below gives such a good representation of the need and the process of Bible translation for sign languages. One of my favorite quotes from the video is, "'Trying to understand the written Bible is so hard, but this has opened our eyes. (3:46)'"
Statistical Images from https://www.wycliffe.org/prayer/how-to-pray-for-sign-language-translation