FrontLines Spring 2025 - Flipbook - Page 1
SPRING
2025
The Chonyi People Celebrate a Milestone
After waiting more than 13 years, the completed Chonyi
New Testament arrived on Aug. 17, 2024 in Kilifi, Kenya.
The people praised God and joyfully released confetti
cannons in celebration. They also reflected on their long
journey to receiving the New Testament in their language.
It was a journey marked by perseverance, and their hard
work had finally come to fruition.
A lack of Scripture in the Chonyi language made it difficult
for people to clearly understand what it means to follow
Jesus. By 2015, the translation team completed the Gospel
of Matthew, providing the Chonyi with their first access to
Scripture in their language. “This New Testament is very
important to us,” said a local bishop. “It is easily
understood; it speaks to the soul. I am looking forward to
having the whole Bible.”
In addition to translation, the team focused on involving
the community — a goal at the heart of their mission.
Accomplishing that goal took time and effort, but the
Chonyi team was able to involve the community in a
variety of ways.
Momentum started to grow when the team launched the
“JESUS” film, allowing the Chonyi community to
experience Christ’s life through Scripture and video
storytelling. A youth retreat provided the opportunity to
screen the film, which is based on the Gospel of Luke. For
the first time, students watched events from the Bible come
to life in their own language. The film opened the door for
deeper discussions about the teachings and life of Christ.
Additional community initiatives included:
» Community forums to build support and encourage
local believers to participate in translation efforts.
» Technology training for staff to develop apps
showcasing the translation in digital and audio formats.
With widespread smartphone use in the community,
social media platforms and apps have become key tools
for engaging people with God’s Word.
» Church involvement through meetings organized by
project staff which promote the translation work.
» New resources, including a Chonyi hymnbook and
Sunday school teaching materials based on the Gospel
of Luke.
The Chonyi New Testament serves as a tool for spiritual
renewal, helping the people grow in their relationships
with God. But their journey isn’t over: The translation team
recently started work on the Old Testament. Join us in
praying that the Chonyi New Testament deepens people’s
faith and transforms the community. Please also pray for
the team as they work to translate the Old Testament and
complete their Bible.
To help more people like the Chonyi
receive God’s Word in their language,
visit wycliffe.org/frontlines or scan the
QR code to give.
ABOVE: Bwitengi villagers celebrating
the completed Ikoma New Testament.
