Giangan Clata Printed Scriptures Spark Deeper Hunger for God’s Word
Davao del Sur, Philippines
A heartfelt celebration of God’s Word took place in Barangay Wangan, Calinan District, Davao City, on March 21, 2025, as the Giangan Clata community received portions of Scripture printed in their own language for the first time.
The Bible distribution was hosted by the Wangan Southern Baptist Church, with the support of Pastor Andrew Ayuban, in partnership with Wycliffe Philippines led by translation advisor Jerome Resomadero with mother tongue translators Hazel Ang and Girlie Ayuban. Sixteen individuals received copies of the Book of Matthew, an initial printed portion produced alongside ongoing translation efforts for Scripture engagement and promotion.
The Giangan Clata translation project is primarily an Oral Bible Translation (OBT) project of Wycliffe Philippines. OBT is a method of translating Scripture for communities with strong oral traditions and limited access to written language. It involves faithfully conveying the biblical message through oral forms such as storytelling, songs, dramas, and chants.
The Giangan Clata translation team ensures that the translation is both theologically accurate and culturally relevant. While oral formats remain central, the printed Gospel of Matthew serves as a complementary resource for reading and wider engagement. The team’s dedication continues to strengthen translation awareness and Scripture access within the community.
Joy and gratitude filled the gathering as community members held the printed Scriptures for the very first time. For them, it was more than receiving a book, it was a personal encounter with God’s Word in a language that speaks to their hearts.
One participant reflected on Matthew 7:13–14, reading the passage in the Giangan Clata language and sharing, “We will choose to follow the narrow road, not the wider road, to serve God and to be with Him.” His response reflects a growing desire among the people to walk in obedience to God’s truth.
As the community engages more deeply with Scripture, a growing desire is taking root to read the Bible. Many expressed that loving God is closely connected to reading and listening to His Word. Smiles and heartfelt gratitude were evident on the faces of those who received the translated Scriptures.
The active participation of the church has inspired the translation team to continue their work with even greater enthusiasm. The community recognizes that having God’s Word in their language helps people understand His love and His plans for their lives.
This Scripture distribution highlights how both oral and written expressions of God’s Word can work together to provide meaningful access. It stands as a testimony to the power of Scripture in the language of the heart, inviting communities to hear, understand, and respond to God in ways that transform lives.
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