Meet Elsi
ABOVE PHOTO CAPTION: ELSI FACILITATES BIBLE STORY TELLING AND PRODUCING NEW SUNDAY SCHOOL MATERIALS FOR THE DAYAK SPEAKING CHURCH IN KALIMANTAN.
Elsi, from Kalimantan, Indonesia, speaks six languages. Last year Elsi came to the Wycliffe National Centre at Kangaroo Ground to improve her English.
For Elsi, knowing what language to use in which context is the art of good communication. She adapts her speech to different settings. She uses her Dayak language with her family, Bahasa Indonesia (Indonesian) with colleagues, and other relevant local Dayak languages in central Kalimantan. And of course English with foreign visitors, or in Australia.
Using the wrong language in a particular context can be awkward and bring suspicion. For example, using Bahasa Indonesia with her parents is too distant and lacks intimacy, but using it in a group that includes a non-Dayak speaker is respectful and inclusive.
The right language, in the right context brings acceptance and opportunity for deeper communication.
Watch this video of Elsi and others describe why they are involved in Bible translation https://vimeo.com/252455477
This story is from Wycliffe Today – February 2018 Edition