Caribbean Church Update: Installations and Apostolic Journeys
Vol. 1 | Issue 19
A weekly roundup of significant happenings, moves, and missions across the Caribbean’s Christian and ecumenical landscape.
Headline: Archbishop Philip Wright Installed as Primate of the West Indies
In a vibrant and historic ceremony at the Belize Civic Centre on April 26, The Most Rev. Philip S. Wright was officially installed as the Archbishop and Primate of the Church in the Province of the West Indies (CPWI). The service was attended by nearly 4,500 people and featured a mix of traditional hymns, modern liturgical dance, and music from former Governor-General Sir Colville Young.
In his inaugural sermon as Primate, Archbishop Philip used the metaphor of "clay jars" from 2 Corinthians 4:7–9, emphasizing that the power of ministry comes not from the "fragile vessel" of the leader but from the "treasure" of God within. He outlined four key pillars for his tenure: Youth (leadership and discipleship), Technology (digital ministry expansion), Constitutional Renewal (governance updates), and Faith Formation.
Ecumenical & Denominational Moves
Roman Catholic Bishops Arrive in Rome for "Ad Limina"
The bishops of the Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC) officially began their Ad Limina Apostolorum visit to the Vatican this week (April 27 – May 3). The Roman Catholic leadership from across the Caribbean is meeting with Pope Leo XIV and various Vatican departments to present their five-year reports on the "spiritual and social realities" of the region.
Key topics on the table include the church’s response to economic hardship, youth malaise, and the deepening humanitarian crisis in Cuba. Following their time in Rome, the bishops will undertake a spiritual pilgrimage to Assisi to honor the 800th anniversary of St. Francis’ death.
Methodist Leadership Reflects on Regional Conflict
The World Methodist Council issued a pastoral reflection this week regarding the military operations in Venezuela. The Methodist bishops are calling for "sincere dialogue" and reminding regional governments that violence is not a lawful means to resolve conflict. This comes as the Methodist Church in the Caribbean and the Americas (MCCA) coordinates relief for displaced families in the Southern Caribbean.
Regional Mission & Church Growth
Caritas Antilles Donates EC$200,000 in Supplies
In a major humanitarian move, Caritas Antilles (the relief arm of the Roman Catholic Church in the region) donated approximately EC$200,000 worth of medical supplies to the Millennium Heights Medical Complex in St. Lucia. This donation is part of a broader ecumenical effort to bolster healthcare for vulnerable populations across the OECS.
Youth Empowerment in the Amazonian Face
The appointment of Marva Joy Hawksworth, a Guyanese lay leader, as Vice President of the Ecclesial Conference of the Amazon (CEAMA) is being celebrated as a milestone for the Caribbean. Her role highlights the Roman Catholic Church’s push to include intercultural and lay voices in the mission of "proclaiming hope" within the Amazonian territories of Guyana and Suriname.
Quick Hits & Significant Dates
Archbishop David Macaire (Martinique): Has issued a challenge to Roman Catholic parishes to prioritize loving young adults over "evaluating" them, addressing a growing feeling of exclusion among youth in the French Antilles.
Peace and Vigilance: Archbishop Gabriel Malzaire of Castries (St. Lucia) called on citizens this week to take "collective responsibility" for peace, noting that it is not enough to simply pray for safety without action.
Mass of Christian Burial: The Roman Catholic Church in Jamaica concluded the final rites for Bishop Emeritus Burchell McPherson of Montego Bay last week, with internment at Holy Trinity Cathedral.
Upcoming Events to Watch
May 3: Worldwide Devotional for Young Adults (Elder Gary E. Stevenson).
May 10: Annual Plenary Meeting of the AEC in Rome.
June 2026: ACC-19 meeting in Belfast, where Caribbean Anglican delegates will discuss provincial restructuring.
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The Most Revd Philip Wright is installed as Primate of the Church in the Province of the West Indies
This video documents the installation of Archbishop Philip Wright, providing a window into the vibrant worship and communal hope of the Anglican Church in the Caribbean.
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: