Caribbean Church Update: Unity in Times of Crisis
Vol. 1 | Issue 01
A weekly roundup of significant happenings, moves, and missions across the Caribbean’s Christian and ecumenical landscape.
Headline: Caribbean Bishops Call for Peace Amid Regional Tensions
The most significant news this week comes from the Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC). Following recent military developments in Venezuela, Catholic and ecumenical leaders across the region have issued a unified call for the Caribbean to remain a "Zone of Peace."
Archbishop Charles Jason Gordon (Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago) issued a pastoral letter urging all governments—including the United States and Venezuela—to prioritize dialogue over force. The AEC hosted a Caribbean Day of Prayer on Thursday, January 8, which saw participation from various denominations across the islands.
Official Statement: CELAM & AEC Message of Solidarity (Catholic Culture)
Ecumenical & Denominational Moves
Anglican Leadership Transition in Jamaica
The Diocese of Jamaica and The Cayman Islands is officially settling into a new era. Following the retirement of Archbishop Howard Gregory, The Rt. Rev. Leon Paul Golding was recently enthroned as the 15th Bishop. This week, the diocese is focusing on recovery efforts for churches damaged in the recent hurricane season.
New Archbishop of the West Indies
The Rt. Rev. Philip S. Wright, Bishop of Belize, has begun his tenure as the 14th Archbishop and Primate of the Church in the Province of the West Indies (CPWI). His leadership is expected to focus on ecumenical bridge-building across the English and Spanish-speaking Caribbean.
Regional Mission & Church Growth
"Heal the Nation" in Jamaica
On Wednesday, January 7, the National Day of Prayer was held in Jamaica. Thousands gathered at the Power of Faith Ministries for the "Heal the Family, Heal the Nation" service, where Prime Minister Andrew Holness urged the church to partner with the government to reduce violence.
Pentecostal Expansion in the Southern Caribbean
The Church of God of Prophecy (COGOP) is reporting growth in Guyana and Suriname. New regional fellowships are being established to support migrants, with a focus on "holistic ministry."
Quick Hits & Significant Dates
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (Jan 18–25): Regional prep is underway with a focus on "Ecumenical Hospitality."
Venezuela Response: The Caribbean Conference of Churches (CCC) and other bodies like CIEMAL are coordinating humanitarian responses for those affected by the regional instability. Read CIEMAL’s statement here.
Upcoming Events to Watch
Jan 18: Start of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.
Jan 24: Regional collection for the Church in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Feb 2026: Scheduled regional meeting for the CCC to discuss the Venezuela humanitarian response.
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This video provides a direct look at the 20th annual "Heal the Family, Heal the Nation" service in Jamaica, featuring the key leaders and messages.
Heed the Call to Serve the West-Indies
Are you called to lead, to serve, and to shepherd God’s people in the unique and vibrant landscape of the Caribbean? The United Holy Caribbean Apostolic Church is seeking dedicated, Spirit-filled clergy to join us in our mission of celebrating over 500 years of faith and tradition in the Patriarchate of the West-Indies.
We are a community rooted in the richness of the Divine Liturgy, the wisdom of the Caribbean Creed, and a deep commitment to ecumenical unity. If you are passionate about preserving sound doctrine while reaching the modern Caribbean heart, we invite you to explore a path of ministry with us. Whether you are an experienced minister or feeling a fresh pull toward the diaconate or priesthood, your journey starts here.
Take the next step in your vocation. Fill out the interest form below to connect with the Department of Ecumenical Relations: