Interpreting for the Pope and President Biden

A Historic Call

“Mrs. Kaplan, are you available for an interpreting job?” the voice on the other end of the line asked. “This one might be different from what you’re used to. It’s for a phone conversation between President-elect Joe Biden and Pope Francis.” On that pivotal November day, amid a whirlwind of global congratulations, Biden and the Pope shared a significant dialogue. While I can’t disclose their exact words, the press reported that Biden expressed his gratitude for the Pope’s blessings and their shared commitment to issues like climate change, poverty, and immigration. This moment underscored the essential role of interpreters in fostering global understanding and inspired the founding of Kaplan Interpreting Services.

Before the Event

When I first received the job offer, disbelief washed over me. It felt like a prank-too good to be true. As days passed and details solidified from a reliable client, reality began to sink in. This extraordinary opportunity was genuinely happening.

Transitioning from disbelief to preparation was a rollercoaster of emotions. Excitement surged, making it difficult to focus. To calm my nerves, I turned to meditation and yoga, which became my sanctuary. These practices helped me center myself and find the mental clarity needed to study the communication styles of both the Pope and Biden. I delved into their speeches, analyzed their expressions, and created a glossary of their frequently used terms. Practicing my speed and theirs, I prepared meticulously, ensuring I was ready for the monumental task ahead.

The Day Of

The day finally arrived, and the reality of my assignment hit me like a tidal wave. Despite my preparation, the nerves were relentless. I performed breathing exercises and meditated to channel my energy positively. When the phone call confirmed I was to be the interpreter, the moment felt surreal, almost otherworldly. Time seemed to warp as seconds flew by in a blur. I had to set aside my emotions, focus on my role, and perform to the best of my ability, regardless of the significance of the figures I was interpreting for.

During the interpretation, it felt as though I was in an intense, almost out-of-body experience. I became a conduit, a voice box, ensuring clear communication between two of the most influential people in the world. The gravity of my responsibility was immense, but I stayed grounded, concentrating solely on my job.

After the Event

Post-event, the reality of what I had accomplished began to dawn on me. Family members and friends were curious and excited, but I kept the news to a select few, savoring the personal triumph. As I recounted the experience, my initial disbelief gave way to overwhelming pride. The most unexpected and heartwarming part was the acknowledgment from both the Pope and President-elect Biden. Hearing them commend my interpreting skills was profoundly validating. It made me feel valued, appreciated, and like I had truly made a difference.

Being recognized by such esteemed individuals was a testament to the hard work and dedication I had invested in my craft. The Pope, who speaks Spanish and Italian, chose to communicate in Spanish, his language of comfort, highlighting the critical role of an interpreter in bridging language gaps. This acknowledgment affirmed my belief in the importance of my work and left me with a deep sense of fulfillment and pride.

A New Chapter

In the global landscape, interpreters play a crucial role in facilitating meaningful dialogues at the highest levels of leadership. This truth was evident in the historic exchange I had the privilege of facilitating between President-elect Joe Biden and Pope Francis. This experience underscored the vital importance of interpreters and inspired the creation of Kaplan Interpreting Services.

Our mission goes beyond translation; it is about fostering empathy, promoting cross-cultural understanding, and building a more inclusive society. Our work demonstrates the enduring power of language as a force for unity, compassion, and positive change.