Speaking through an interpreter can prove to be quite challenging, especially in formal settings such as preaching. Here are some suggestions for making the experience a bit smoother both for you and your interpreter. 
#10 - What - you – say - Kimosabe?
Don’t speak Indian style. Some people think that if they talk like Tonto discussing a raid with the Kimosabe they’ll be better understood. It doesn’t work that way. Just speak normally (That’s normal for most people, not necessarily you in particular). An interpreter needs a complete thought to translate, not individual words. On the other hand, remember to keep your statement short so the translator can repeat it.
#9 Can you hear me now?
Don’t scream! If your interpreter doesn’t understand something, saying it louder won’t help. Turn and look directly at the interpreter and repeat the phrase. If he still doesn’t understand, try saying the same thing in another way.
#8 – Did you hear the one . . . ?
Humor is very cultural and most U.S. jokes don’t translate well. Slang or idiomatic expressions such as stubborn as a mule, got the blues, or even, walked the isle, can throw the interpreter into confusion.
#7 - My text tonight is the entire book of Genesis
Let the interpreter read long passages in the native language, there’s no reason for you to take up time reading it first in English. If you are concerned for other Americans present, they will hear your reference and can read along. Don’t quote scripture from memory because it is very difficult to translate. If you plan on using scriptures within a message, share them ahead of time with your interpreter so he can mark them in his Bible.
#6 - I’m a steamroller, baby
This is one I’ve seen over and over. You will be anxious to relate your next statement, and the pauses for translation are awkward at first for most pastors. Try to get into a rhythm with your interpreter, always making sure he is finished translating before you proceed.
#5 - Look me in the eye and say that!
Look at the audience or person you are speaking to, not the interpreter. Use first person when addressing the audience – say, ”I live in the U.S.”, instead of turning to the interpreter and saying, “tell them I live in the U.S.” Think of your interpreter as a sound system amplifying your voice so that it can be heard and understood by all. You wouldn’t talk to the speaker on the wall and say, “tell them I’m glad to be here tonight.” Rather, you would address the audience directly.
#4 – Getting to know you
When formal speaking is involved, get to know your interpreter beforehand in a relaxed setting. Spend time with him to make sure he understands your message before having to translate it. Knowing ahead of time where you are going with something can help immensely. Don’t leave a written sermon text with your interpreter, he may be tempted to read it to the audience instead of translating.
#3 – You can’t judge a book by its English
Just because your interpreter’s English is not a shining example of language proficiency doesn’t mean she’s not a good interpreter. Interpreters come with varying levels of experience and ability. Usually, the more experience interpreters are used for pulpit work while less experienced ones can easily handle home visits. Remember, her job is not only to help you communicate, but to help you understand the culture and the context of your encounter.
#2- Where seldom is heard an encouraging word
Never criticize or correct your interpreter! If you have a problem with a particular interpreter, discuss it with your team leader. Always encourage the interpreter, but avoid embarrassing her by asking her to translate complements about herself before an audience.
#1 – Two for the price of one
Remember, theoretically your message will take twice as long to deliver due to the time needed for translation. So if you have been given 40 minutes to speak, prepare only 20 minutes of presentation.
