Vol. 1 | Issue 17

A weekly roundup of significant happenings, moves, and missions across the Caribbean’s Christian and ecumenical landscape.

The countdown has ended for the Catholic hierarchy of the region. On Monday, April 27, the bishops of the Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC) will officially begin their Ad Limina Apostolorum visit in Rome. This intensive week-long pilgrimage is the first of its kind since the pandemic, as the 2021 visit was canceled due to global travel restrictions.

The bishops are carrying "Quinquennial Reports" that detail the state of the Church across the Caribbean. Beyond the formal meetings with Vatican departments, a focal point of the trip is a day-long spiritual retreat in Assisi to commemorate the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis. The AEC has asked the faithful across the islands to pray specifically for "discernment and renewal" during their audience with Pope Leo XIV.

The Ecumenical Advocacy Days (EAD) concluded this week (April 20–22) in Washington, D.C. Several Caribbean ecumenical partners participated in the virtual and in-person sessions under the theme "Protecting People, Peace, and Planet!" The discussions centered on a "Christian response to U.S. Immigration Policy," a topic of vital importance to Caribbean families affected by recent shifts in deportation and asylum protocols. The event culminated in a "Lobby Day" on Earth Day, where leaders called for climate debt relief for island nations.

Following the recent Gafcon restructuring in Abuja, the transition to the new Global Anglican Council is now active. This moves the conservative wing of the denomination toward a "conciliar structure," effectively de-centering the Archbishop of Canterbury as the sole "first among equals." While the CPWI (Province of the West Indies) remains a bridge-builder, local clergy are closely watching how this new voting structure for laity and clergy will impact regional synods.

A new series of theological and economic reflections titled "The Big Push" is gaining traction among Caribbean ecumenical circles this month. The initiative argues that "growth is not enough" and calls on the Church to advocate for an economy that reaches the "young man with no formal employment" and the "woman navigating an economy not designed for her." It challenges the cruise and hotel industries to develop deeper linkages with local communities.

In Jamaica, the "Arise Jamaica" movement continues its April tour. Led by Reverend D, the ministry held a series of "Refuge and Strength" sessions this week (April 17–20). The focus has been on providing spiritual support for first responders and families dealing with community violence, emphasizing the church as a literal sanctuary.

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Arise Jamaica-With Reverend D, April 17, 2026

This video features the "Arise Jamaica" service, offering a look at the grassroots spiritual movements currently providing a sense of hope and refuge within the Jamaican community.

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: