Guest Post: Ian Fallis
In Florida We Format
Many NTM translators have their printing coordinated through NTM’s Florida office. Right now, eight New Testaments — five new translations and three revisions — are in various stages of completion.
The process starts with a rich text file that NTM missionary Doug Lotz imports into a program designed to create files that print shops can work with. Many people might find it tedious work, but Doug, who is a master of understatement, said it’s a good fit for his skills and “I kind of like doing it.” We tend to agree — he’s been doing it for more than 30 years!
Let the Proofreading Begin
Going from one format to another can be problematic. NTM retirees Jack Abbott and Edna Trigg and missionary Julie Fallis proofread to make sure all the books are there, each book has the right number of chapters, and each chapter has the right number of verses. They also check punctuation, formatting, footnotes and more. All three of them are glad to be able to contribute by doing this detailed, painstaking work. After a minimum of two rounds of proofreading, and sometimes four, it’s time for printing.
Printing: Making a Good Impression
It can be a challenge to find a printer who does quality work, will complete the job, and do it for a reasonable price. This is where the expertise of Jon Frazier come in.
Jon, an NTM missionary, brings years of experience in printing. He works with a broker to find quality shops to print the Bibles — and he does a fantastic job at it. He also oversees inspection of the finished New Testaments and helps arrange shipping.
As you can see, Jon, Doug, Jack, Edna, and Julie all have one thing in common. They use their skills to impact the kingdom. Your skills, the things you enjoy doing and your experience might just make you a great fit for an important role on NTM’s church planting and Bible translation team. Find your fit.