“I am grateful for this opportunity to serve at Mercy Ships and hope to create my own NGO someday to empower young Malagasy girls and street kids. I believe that, as a Christian, I should reach out with God’s love to those living on the margins of society.”

Jessica Bency, Translator

Some students learn a new skill in a classrooms, others might visit websites to grow in their education. Jessica Bency’s pursuit of knowledge came from a different place.

Jessica currently works with Mercy Ships as a translator, bridging the gap between volunteer and patient as lives are changed through safe, free surgery on board the Africa Mercy. But her journey to becoming an interpreter was a unique one. Not only did she have the remarkable determination to learn English on her own, without any formal training, but the guide she used to develop this skill was none other than the Bible. 

“My friend invited me to join him for Bible study at their church,” Jessica shared. “I really enjoyed the lessons, but it was so hard for me to follow what was being discussed on days when my friend was unable to attend the meetings. His absence meant that I had to figure out what was being said on my own.”  

In 2017, she met Matilda, a South African missionary who also attended her church — and she had a solution for the language barrier in Jessica’s way. 

“She gave me an English language Bible and suggested a really smart way for me to study it,” Jessica recalls. “Read my Malagasy language Bible alongside the English language one, and that way, I would understand what was being said.”  

The method worked! Jessica continuously grew both spiritually and in her English comprehension. She didn’t know at the time, but God was using her determination to learn English to prepare her for a new opportunity. One that would change lives and transform futures.

“I had learned about Mercy Ships before through social media and really liked the work that they do,” she said. “I had a friend who works on the ship as a crewmember. He encouraged me to apply.” 

When one of our hospital ships arrives in-country for a new field service, it is staffed with hundreds of volunteers. And working alongside those volunteers are our national crew — native speakers of national languages who are familiar with local customs and etiquette. These national crew members team up with Mercy Ships crew across all departments to interpret for patients and their caregivers, as well as healthcare professionals receiving training.  

For Jessica, who works with the communications team on board, the role involves interpreting interviews with the patients whose stories are being documented from pre-operation to post-operation — even visiting them at home to share how their lives have been transformed. Thanks to the efforts of Jessica and other national crew like her, we can share stories that otherwise might not be heard.  

One of Jessica’s favorite parts about being on board is the opportunity she has to practice her English as well as further strengthen her own faith: “The people here are so kind and love the Lord. I have grown in my walk with the Lord while on board!” 

We are so grateful to partner with national crew like Jessica, whose dedication to hope and healing means more health and joy in the countries we serve. And you can serve alongside those like her! There are many ways to serve as a volunteer professional with Mercy Ships — whether you’re at home in the engine room, the hospital, the galley, or the classroom, you can find your place on board today!