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Interpreting in a religious setting is different than any other form of interpreting. Religious interpreters should of course abide by the Code of Professional Conduct but in addition to that there are unique environments, unique personal needs, and unique terminology which needs to be considered. Gate provides seminars to teach religious interpreting techniques, skills in dealing with consumers and pastors within the religious setting, and personal spiritual development as a religious interpreter. Religious interpreting can be considered interpreting for church services, funerals, weddings, even pastoral meetings. Here are some hints which may help new interpreters prepare for religious interpreting scenarios:

PREPARATION

  • Get tight with Jesus. The more in tune you are with Christ the better and more accurate your interpretation.
  • Memorize scripture. The more you know, the less you will worry when verses are rattled off you can't hear.
  • Practice / Practice / Practice. Practice practice makes perfect.
  • Work on glossing. If you develop translations ahead of time you can pull from those in the moment.
  • Buy worship CDs. The more you have in your head the less you will need in the moment.
  • Attempt to get as much information about the service or meeting ahead of time as possible (understanding many things change prior to or during religious services)

ON SITE

  • You represent the pastor not the congregation so stand when he/she stands and sit when he/she sits (some churches prefer you to follow the standing habits of the congregation)
  • During musical portions match your body language and Signs to the beat and rhythm to the music. Remember you become the conduit for worship.
  • Match the "mood and intent" of the pastor/speaker. Speakers intentionally inflect their voices in specific ways to evoke attention or responses from the audience. Whatever you do, be sure to match the speech patterns, emotional patterns, etc.
  • Interpret conceptually. Whether transliterating in Contact (PSE) or interpreting in ASL, interpretations should be conceptually accurate. Some d/Deaf individuals prefer the English followed and conceptual accuracy ignored. Remember to always meet the needs of your consumer.

For more extensive information, check out our classes, seminars, and educational materials!