Maritime Scripture-Use Studio

After nearly 25 years of work, the Yumplatok New Testament, Genesis, Ruth, and Jonah are set to be introduced in fall 2012.

A two- to three-year endeavor to get Scriptures into the hands and lives of islanders will commence after the celebration. The boat pictured below will advance this endeavor by providing facilities for a variety of Scripture-use projects, along with the safe, reliable water transportation so essential for language workers in a maritime environment. An onboard audio-recording studio, a classroom, and living quarters for crew and Scripture-use specialists will make it possible to train leaders, hold Bible studies, and record Scriptures—all in locations convenient to island communities.

In the maritime culture of the Torres Strait Islands, a boat is the best solution for several reasons:

• Accommodations aren’t available locally. A boat would also give the team a home, office, recording studio, and classroom.

• Hauling extensive cargo such as recording equipment, Bibles, and teaching tools by plane would be too expensive.

• A boat could travel to all the islands, not just those with airstrips.

Your gift will help provide a safe and affordable way for Scripture-use specialists to regularly visit island communities. While encouraging use of the Yumplatok Bible, the boat’s crew and staff will have a significant role in teaching Torres Strait Islanders how to incorporate God’s Word into their daily lives.