The Office of Social Communication (OSC) of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) concluded its Pastoral Literature Translation Workshop on June 10.
The event, held from June 4 in Bangkok, Thailand, brought together 44 translators from 16 languages across Asia.
Cardinal Sebastian Francis, Bishop of Penang and Chairman of the FABC-OSC, opened the workshop, emphasizing the crucial role of translators.
“A translator becomes the connecting point between the author and the reader. The translator of pastoral literature is faithful to what is in the source language, and is open to the dynamics of the target language,” and encouraged participants to be ‘missionary disciples’,” said the prelate.
The workshop was facilitated by experts from SIL, focusing on translation principles, methods, tools, and strategies. This provided participants with essential knowledge and skills.
“The workshop has opened me to the languages of the world and the world of languages,” said Yesu Karunanidhi, a participant from India.
Caroline Maria Damayanti Nugroho from Indonesia appreciated the networking opportunities, saying, “I can connect to different people who are involved in the work of translation. The workshop has enabled me to network and collaborate.”
Nawalage Lovi Godfrey Cooray from Sri Lanka expressed a renewed sense of community among translators, while Chun Chien Wu from Taiwan reported improved confidence.
Organized by Fr. George Plathottam SDB, Executive Secretary to the FABC Office of Social Communication, the event also introduced a ‘Handbook for Translators,’ offering practical lessons and guidelines.
The initiative, according to OSC, marked a significant step toward enhancing the quality and reach of pastoral literature and improving communication within the Church’s communities across Asia.
