The language barrier

Charlotte North Carolina, much like many growing cities has seen an influx of different cultures. That influx of culture brings additional languages. There is a need for churches to be able to minister to these individuals. There was a time when we must go abroad in order to need a foreign language in order to witness to people of a different culture. This is no longer the case. I advise all churches that I work with to have at least one greeter that speaks Spanish, one person in their children's ministry that speaks Spanish, and to provide audio dubbed over videos in Spanish. The reason for this is that Hispanic populations are the fastest-growing demographic in North America. There are a group of adults with limited language skills who have children that must translate for them. This often leads to parents either dropping off their children or not wanting the children to leave them in case they need the language skills. We can alleviate that as churches if we provide someone who speaks their primary language. I understand we will never be able to provide a translator for every language however if we understand the area in which the church is placed and we understand the demographics of that area, then there should be no reason we cannot actively engage persons in that community in whatever form of communication is most vital and effective.

We often speak of language as a cultural verbal communication. I believe that there are overlooked languages that the church must learn to speak. These are the languages of technology and action.  The younger generation uses technology as their primary communication tool, they will sit in a room and text one another. They communicate with their friends through updating statuses. The church must learn to communicate with these individuals in this culture. The other language the church must learn to speak is that of action. The church must be actively involved in the culture in which it is placed. If it is not, then any communication it makes with the persons of the community will fall on deaf ears. 

Language and communication are critical for the church to grow not only in the area that I am in but in other areas around the country. This should be a topic of discussion for any church. This should be a topic of discussion for any person in ministry.