Sharon “Rocky” Roggio’s documentary 1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture represents a profoundly impactful contribution to the ongoing dialogue about LGBTQIA+ inclusion in the church. The film examines how one translation decision in the 1946 Revised Standard Version (RSV) of the Bible shaped churches and families for generations by introducing the word “homosexual” into English translations for the first time.
For years, Christians have pointed to verses like 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 to answer questions like, “What does the Bible say about homosexuality?” As a lesbian Christian, Roggio guides viewers through a scholarly yet personal exploration of how the translation team equated two Greek words in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 with the more contemporary term “homosexual”. The documentary follows researchers Kathy Baldock and Ed Oxford as they consult scholars and archives for the history behind this translation choice. 
The researchers’ findings at Yale University provide powerful evidence that the term “homosexual” is a mistranslation of the two ancient Greek words, raising major questions about this interpretation. By uncovering correspondence from a 1959 seminary student, the film reveals early responses and fears about the consequences of the RSV. The documentary follows subsequent translations and popular paraphrased versions of Scripture rapidly entrenching the translation in church tradition despite initial concerns.
Roggio’s complex relationship with her father, a pastor who disputes her inclusive view of Scripture, forms the emotional core of the film. Her family’s experiences will resonate those of many Christians today, highlighting our responsibility to engage with Scripture critically and compassionately. By sharing her personal story, Roggio invites Christians to consider how interpretations of Scripture may welcome or alienate our siblings in Christ.
As Presbyterians, participants in a tradition of reformation and thoughtful theological interpretation, we recognize the deeply personal nature of engaging with Scripture as individuals and in communities of faith. Roggio’s documentary equips us to revisit Scripture with fresh scholarship and perspectives that challenge longstanding assumptions. Viewers who saw easy answers in verses such as 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 will find much more to the story in 1946. Those certain of their position in the conversation about LGBTQIA+ inclusion will still learn about the difficult and complicated process of biblical translation.
1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture is available for virtual screening and linked on CNP’s Sexuality & Sexual Orientation page alongside similar resources for those seeking to continue their study. The documentary offers an essential opportunity for study groups, sessions, and individual church members to reflect on how our interpretations of Scripture may or may not embody Christ’s love for all God’s children. Through compelling scholarship and personal revelation, Roggio invites viewers to revisit familiar texts through a nuanced lens that will inform, if not transform our faith.