Project Profile

Helong NT | Helong

Helong 1
Helong 2

The Helong people live in isolated villages on the island of Timor and on the smaller island of Semau in the Timor region of Indonesia. In many ways they still follow their traditional practices and have retained their language. The Helong people were introduced to Christianity about 200 years ago when many were baptized and churches were established. The Bible in the national language of Indonesian is used in church services. Because the national language does not communicate clearly to the people, the pastors orally translate the Scriptures into Helong during the services.

The local leaders as well as the head of the largest Protestant denomination in the region have requested help in translating the Bible so the people can clearly understand the Scriptures and read it for themselves.

God has called a well-educated Helong speaking pastor to be the primary translator, along with other pastors who have been released by their churches to help translate on a part-time basis. They are translating the New Testament and Genesis. Wycliffe is providing consultants to ensure the high quality of the translation and is maintaining financial accountability through regular reports.

News from the Field
  • Jan23

    Helong of Timor

    The Helong are predominately Christian farmers who desire to worship God in their language. They live in isolated villages on the island of Timor and on the smaller island of Semau in the Timor region of Indonesia. In many ways they still follow their traditional practices and have retained their language. God has called a well-educated Helong speaking pastor to be the primary translator, along with other pastors who have been released by their churches to help translate on a part-time basis.

    Continue Reading

  • Aug06

    Helong of Timor

    20,000 speakers, predominately Christian farmers who desire to worship God in their language. They live in isolated villages on the island of Timor and on the smaller island of Semau in the Timor region of Indonesia. In many ways they still follow their traditional practices and have retained their language. God has called a well-educated Helong speaking pastor to be the primary translator, along with other pastors who have been released by their churches to help translate on a part-time basis.

    Continue Reading

Found in: