How a Monolingual Church Shuts People Out - Jonathan Downie
A church that only speaks English may unintentionally tell a third of its neighbors: you don’t belong here. Jonathan Downie, author of Multilingual Church and host of the Church Interpreting Podcast, joins Christianity Without Compromise (formerly Smashing Idols) to expose how language choices shape who gets included in church—and who gets left out. Drawing on personal stories and global insights, he argues that multilingual ministry is a core expression of gospel identity, especially in migrant-rich urban contexts. Together with host Jake Doberenz, they discuss the theology of Pentecost, how English-speaking churches have made language an idol, and why building a truly diverse church requires more than translators—it requires humility, shared meals, and hard questions.
Key Takeaways:
The early church and the Kingdom of God are inherently multilingual, making language inclusion a theological mandate, not just a hospitality strategy.
When churches treat language ministry as a separate effort rather than part of their identity, it creates fragile systems that often fail and discourage future attempts.
Practical hospitality toward migrant families begins with humility, awareness of cultural expectations, and intentional support across the full pathway from welcome to leadership.
Important Links:
Multilingual Church: Strategies for Making Disciples in All Languages – Jonathan Downie’s guide on multilingual ministry
churchinterpreting.com – Free resources, articles, and the Church Interpreting podcast
Integrity Languages – Consulting, interpretation services, and training
Multilingual Church YouTube Channel – Practical tools and explainer videos for churches
Jonathan Downie is a professional conference interpreter, consultant, and the author of Multilingual Church. He runs Integrity Languages, a UK-based interpretation business, and hosts the Church Interpreting podcast. With over 20 years of experience, Jonathan specializes in helping churches navigate the theological, cultural, and logistical challenges of serving multilingual and multiethnic communities.
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Follow this show and Jake Doberenz’s writings at jakedoberenz.substack.com.
