In 1999, Karla began working with the Maiadomu people on Fergusson Island in Milne Bay Province. A few years later, when security concerns meant that she could no longer travel to Maiadomu, she began looking for a new way to work with the language team.

 

Karla became part of the Milne Bay regional leadership team and eventually the Project Manager for a multi-language or cluster project called, VITAL, which trained nationals from more than eleven languages to translate Scripture. The Maiadomu team joined this project, and she was able to continue her work with them.

 

Karla met Alex when he visited the VITAL Project, and they were married a year later. Alex then joined the team as an Exegetical Consultant, and now also provides Language Technology expertise.

 

In 2016, each of the eleven VITAL language groups published a 'Mini-Bible.' For Maiadomu that included Genesis and Exodus portions, Mark and Acts. In addition to the printed Scriptures, they distributed audio recordings of the 'Mini-Bible' on solar-powered MP3 players. Now the Maiadomu people do not like to use any other translation in their church services.

 

Since the VITAL Project finished, the Maiadomu people have continued to translate portions of the Old and New Testament with Alex and Karla's help. Recently, they finished the final check of Luke and of an Old Testament Panorama. Now they are working on Matthew. They are also developing and distributing Scripture, dictionary and reading apps as well as color Bible story books among the Maiadomu people to increase interest in reading God's word in their own language.

 

Alex and Karla are so thankful for all those who have partnered with them to see God's Word in the Maiadomu language and would appreciate if you would prayerfully consider partnering in their Wycliffe ministry.