Vol. 1 | Issue 13
A weekly roundup of significant happenings, moves, and missions across the Caribbean’s Christian and ecumenical landscape.
Headline: Ecumenical Leaders Launch Solidarity Mission to Cuba
In a direct response to the "worst crisis in Cuba’s history," a high-level ecumenical delegation led by Rev. Michael Blair, General Secretary of the United Church of Canada, is arriving in Havana this weekend (March 28–31). This mission follows an urgent appeal from the Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC) and partners like the Caribbean Conference of Churches (CCC).
The situation has reached a breaking point due to recent fuel blockades and electrical failures. Regional church reports describe harrowing scenes, including staff at maternity hospitals gathering firewood to cook for patients. The visiting leaders aim to bolster local congregations that are currently the primary providers of food and medicine to seniors and children in the absence of state resources.
Regional Statement: AEC Issues Urgent Call for Solidarity (Diocese of St. John's-Basseterre)
Ecumenical & Denominational Moves
Anglican Primates Gather for Historic Installation
The Most Rev. Philip Wright, Archbishop of the West Indies, was among 26 global primates who traveled to London this week for the installation of Sarah Mullally as the first female Archbishop of Canterbury on March 25.
While the event marked a major shift for the Communion, it also highlighted a deep split. A rival service took place almost simultaneously in Abuja, Nigeria, where conservative leaders (including those from the Global Anglican Communion) reaffirmed their disengagement from Canterbury-aligned structures. Caribbean leadership remains a key voice in balancing these global tensions.
US-Caribbean Migration Initiative Launched
A new ecumenical coalition, the Evangelical-Catholic Dialogue on Immigration (ECDI), was launched on March 24. While based in the U.S., the group is specifically focused on the "pastoral challenges" of mass deportation policies affecting Caribbean Christian families. Bishop Brendan Cahill noted that churches are once again becoming "sensitive locations" for those fearing enforcement.
Regional Mission & Church Growth
New Ministry Launch: Sint Maarten
On March 7, Capitol Ministries officially launched its new Caribbean outreach in Sint Maarten. This specialized ministry focuses on providing Bible studies and pastoral support specifically for government leaders and parliamentarians, a model already active in several other Caribbean capitals.
Bermuda: "Gospel Celebration" on the Island
As part of a major regional mission, Pastor Jim Cymbala and the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir held a massive ministry event on the island of Bermuda this week (March 25–27). Thousands of local residents joined visiting passengers for an "ON THE ISLAND" night of praise, aimed at refreshing local faith communities ahead of the Easter season.
Quick Hits & Significant Dates
Dominica: The national gospel festival, "Glory in Paradise," has officially integrated into the tourism calendar, featuring international stars like Sinach alongside local choirs.
Global Peace Call: On March 5, the World Methodist Council and the Anglican Communion issued a joint statement for peace, specifically citing the devastating impact of military solutions over diplomacy in global conflicts.
Lenten Pillar: Regional Catholic leaders have encouraged a new Lenten practice for the final weeks: "Abstaining from Technology" to foster deeper family and spiritual connection.
Upcoming Events to Watch
March 29: Palm Sunday (Services with Palm branches across all islands).
April 2: Maundy Thursday (Ecumenical communion services).
April 3: Good Friday (Traditional "Seven Last Words" ecumenical services).
May 2: RCCG Caribbean Region Conference in Portsmouth, Dominica.
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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: