Representatives from all 12 districts met with the Translation Evaluation Committee (TEC) in early January for a two-and-a-half-day workshop at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary (WLS), Mequon, Wis.

The workshop was dedicated to a study of translation theory and practice, with special application to the NIV11, an updated translation of the New International Version.

Rev. Paul Wendland, WLS president and chairman of the TEC, says, “Our goal was to have a productive conversation on the complexities of evaluating translations and doing translations, and I think that goal was very much achieved.”

The workshop comprised two representatives from each district, the TEC, the Translation Feasibility Committee, and representatives from each area of ministry. Holding a smaller workshop allowed for more discussion and the free exchange of ideas, as well as small group task work.

Rev. Philip Hirsch, pastor at Hope, Manhattan, Kan., says: “Brothers in faith got together around the Word proclaimed and then discussed, honestly and openly, the work that our synod had given the Translation Evaluation Committee to do—to give a recommendation regarding a serviceable translation for our publishing house to use. Just getting a broader audience together in one place with enough time to listen and then speak was most helpful.”

The idea is that delegates will take what they learned back to their districts and share what was discussed.

“Knowledgeable pastors around the synod can now much better talk with other pastors and church leaders to help them understand what the TEC has concluded so far,” says Rev. Daniel Witte, pastor at Risen Savior, Lakewood Ranch, Fla. “I came away sensing camaraderie and concord among us, and eagerness to spread God’s Word.”

The districts will vote on which translation to use in the synod’s publications at their 2012 summer district conventions. A two-thirds majority is required for any translation to be selected. If two-thirds is not met, the issue will go to the 2013 synod convention.

To learn more about the TEC’s work, go to www.wels.net/translation.