We intend to introduce and distribute a new ecumenical Bible translation to congregations. This completely new translation (title to come) will be an excellent rendition of the original texts and also a document that is accessible to readers of the Bible in our churches. The new Bible translation would be pitched at an 8th grade reading level (compare 11th grade for the NRSV), so that it might enjoy wider use. The new translation will be used in the teaching and worship practices of congregations in at least the following traditions: Presbyterian, Episcopal, Methodist, Lutheran, Baptist, Disciples of Christ, and the United Church of Christ. Readers and seekers from many other traditions will benefit also from this new translation
The theological influences and expertise for the new translation are drawn from ecumenical biblical scholarship (Protestant, Catholic, and Jewish). These scholarly influences will help distinguish the new translation from the NIV translation, which was initiated by the Christian Reformed Church and is in use by most laity.
Music and worship practices have shifted significantly in the previous 15 years, with more emphasis on image and metaphor. A new translation must attend to evocative language that is more engaging emotionally than precise, systematic syntax. Further, due to globalization, technology, and the internet, enormous changes have occurred in the English language since the major translations were prepared a generation or two in the past. It is time for a new translation that responds to the more recent needs and idioms of Bible readers.
More information about the scope, reading level, purpose, and workflow of the new version can be found in a Rationale and Translation Guidelines that is provided with offers to translators.
