Caring for the person in an organizational setting: New directions in SIL training

This study seeks to provide administrators and trainers of the Summer Institute of Linguistics (SIL) with a conceptual framework for understanding the tension between achieving the goal of the organization and caring for the person in SIL training. The goal is to maximize the potential of Bible translators in order to fulfill Vision 2025—placing Scripture in all groups that need it by 2025 through training to build capacity, mentor, and multiply ourselves. SIL training has traditionally prepared its members to work independently in isolated situations.;This research uses the Grid and Group theory as a framework to understand the cultural bias of SIL training within the organizational context and to suggest ways to address this bias. An analysis of a questionnaire sent to recent SIL trainers and students revealed that trainers and students prefer individual decision-making and individual responsibility that conflicted with the rules of the educational system. This antithetical context heightens the tension between achieving the goal of the organization and caring for the person. This tension was seen throughout the history and development of SIL training, the organizational context, and recurring cultural biases.;Although the Grid and Group theory reveals the cultural bias of SIL training, it does not present a means to resolve this bias. Therefore I explored how this tension is addressed through the concept of humanity made in the image of God which was in three ways—relying on God the Father as authority, caring for creation, and caring for people. SIL training reflects God in caring for creation, but it does not rely on God's authority or care for people. A comparison of SIL training with the training model in 1 Thessalonians exemplifies this.;I conclude that the tension between achieving the goal of the organization and caring for the person can be addressed through a Grid and Group analysis and through biblical perspectives of the image of God. This addresses the constraints of individual decision-making, the rules of the system, and individual responsibility. I also suggest an enhanced Intercultural Training Course to assist the SIL organization to fulfill Vision 2025.