
THE VERNACULAR
SCRIPTURES PROGRAM (VSP)


The VMD Program
This program focuses on reaching specific people groups and language communities with the salvific message of the Gospel of Jesus. Using media that deeply resonates with their hearts, souls, and minds, it aims to make the loving presence of the Lord tangible in their daily lives.
​
The goal is to provide access to Scriptures, as well as opportunities for education and life transformation, in language forms that are meaningful to all believers. Modern technology significantly accelerates the process of Bible translation and the creation of multimedia content tailored to these communities. With mobile communication covering over 60% of most African countries, leveraging mobile technology and improving digital literacy are increasingly effective methods to achieve this goal, particularly in areas where formal education is limited.

Role of Modern Technology
Many people struggle to fully grasp the meaning of a message until it is presented through a combination of oral, visual, audio, or written formats. We naturally prefer messages delivered with as much realism and clarity as possible, making them more accessible and impactful. For many, the life-transforming message of Scripture resonates only when shared in this multifaceted format, even among those who may initially think they understood it in another way. Today, more than ever, the Church has the opportunity to utilize these approaches to ensure that the Gospel reaches its fullest potential, transforming lives with its power.
Winds International embraces this opportunity through the Vernacular Media Development (VMD) program. This initiative focuses on unique language community groups, providing them with digital platforms to engage with the Word of God in diverse, creative formats made possible by modern technology. The program produces content that reflects the cultural behaviors, norms, beliefs, and material customs of these communities, based on thorough research. By considering these elements, the program delivers inspired translations that integrate the message of Jesus into the cultural fabric of the target communities, maximizing its transformative impact.
The approach of Winds International
Winds International’s approach is rooted in collaboration with local churches, where they exist, by training church members to create vernacular media content tailored for their communities. These trained members use their skills to enhance the ministry of their own churches, fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment within the local context.
In regions where the Scriptures have not yet been translated into local languages, the Vernacular Media Development (VMD) program initiates translation efforts following the same community-centered model. This process leverages advancements in linguistic and translation technologies to accelerate and enhance the accuracy, faithfulness, and natural flow of the translated Bible. Supported by digital tools, this approach ensures that communities are provided with Scriptures that resonate deeply within their cultural and linguistic contexts.




BE A PART TODAY
-
The program operates in two three-year cycles. The first cycle focuses on translating Scriptures and developing Bible products tailored to the specific needs of an ethnolinguistic group. Building on this foundation, the second cycle emphasizes the artistic and creative use of Scriptures, fostering a deeper and more transformative presence of the Word of God within the community. This phase also supports the development of personnel who can contribute to similar programs in neighboring regions.
-
Each cycle costs $10,000–$15,000 annually, covering the salaries of both local and external staff, as well as the operational expenses required to run the program effectively. This structured approach ensures sustainability and the capacity to extend its impact to other communities.
