Their work began with the Sateré-Mawé people in 1960. At that time, they found a people group of around 3,000 to 4,000 being decimated by illnesses, etc. In 1986, the Grahams published the New Testament (Red hard cover).
Before he died Al, was talking about several different ideas such as cheaper ways to publish, by sending the New Testament to China, printing on India paper, etc. Then, in 2011 a black vinyl covered, India paper, New Testament was printed. John notes that he isn’t exactly clear on the details of how the 2011 version was printed since Al Graham died in November of 2010.
I think it was January of 2011 when Sue got in touch with me asking if I would be willing to form a partnership with her in order to finish Al’s translation of the Bible as there were several portions which had either partial, or no translation done. I replied, “Of course, Sue, our job is one and the same!” So, we began our journey together during 6 plus years making numerous trips by plane from the Amazonian city of Parintins to the Sateré-Mawé village (Vila Nova) to translate as yet untranslated portions and correct some of the previous translations of Bible portions. Sue was always accompanied by one of her daughters during these trips due to her age and the family’s concern for her health and safety.
Then, in 2016 the Bible was published, and in 2017 a celebration service was organized in Vila Nova. Many Sateré people were present, Sue and a number of folks from her church, Shadow Mountain, came including pastors and Sue’s friends. We were flown in by Cessna with the help of pilots from SIL/Wycliffe and also an independent Swiss Baptist pilot and great friend. It is impossible to convey the size, importance, and logistical planning for this event. I have tons of photos but only those who were present can really appreciate all that God did during those days!