Caribbean Church Update: Unity in Times of Crisis
Vol. 1 | Issue 4
A weekly roundup of significant happenings, moves, and missions across the Caribbean’s Christian and ecumenical landscape.
Headline: Bishop Garth Minott Elected New President of Jamaica Council of Churches
In a significant leadership shift for the ecumenical movement in Jamaica, The Rt. Rev. Garth Minott, Suffragan Bishop of Kingston (Anglican), has been elected as the new President of the Jamaica Council of Churches (JCC). Bishop Minott, who officially begins his two-year term this month, succeeds Bishop Christine Gooden-Benguche.
His leadership comes at a critical time as the JCC navigates post-hurricane recovery and increasing calls for the church to play a more active role in addressing national security and social justice. Bishop Minott is joined by a new executive team, including Rev. Pauline DaCosta (Vice-President, Cornwall) and The Most Rev. John Persaud, Bishop of Mandeville (Vice-President, Middlesex).
Ecumenical & Denominational Moves
Trinidad Archbishop Calls for Ban on Social Media for Children
Archbishop Charles Jason Gordon, President of the Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC), has made international headlines this week by calling for a ban on social media for children under 16. Speaking in his diocesan weekly, The Catholic News, Archbishop Gordon warned that the developing brain is "still wiring" and that unchecked exposure to AI and addictive platforms is a "national emergency" for the Caribbean’s youth.
South Caribbean Methodist Ordination
The Methodist Church in the Caribbean and the Americas (MCCA) celebrated a milestone in its South Caribbean District with the ordination of The Rev. Nicholas Chambers as a Presbyter. The service, held at Tranquility Methodist Church, was officiated by Connexional President Bishop Juan M. Simpson, signaling a continued investment in young, local leadership for the region.
Regional Mission & Church Growth
Evangelical Churches Condemn Expanded Gambling in T&T
The Trinidad and Tobago Council of Evangelical Churches (TTCEC) issued a strong condemnation of the government’s decision to introduce "Play Whe" on Sundays. The council argued that gambling is "destructive and addictive," warning that a nation cannot develop physically without a strong moral foundation. This move highlights a growing tension between evangelical bodies and state policy across the OECS.
"Holistic Holiness" Convention in Nevis
The Wesleyan Holiness Church in Nevis concluded its annual "Holiness Convention" this week. Under the theme "Holistic Holiness for Wholesome Relationships," leaders from St. Kitts, Nevis, and Anguilla gathered to discuss how the church can impact family and nation-building in the face of regional instability.
Quick Hits & Significant Dates
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: As the official week concluded on Jan 25th, numerous joint services were reported in Port of Spain, Bridgetown, and Castries. The focus remains on "one hope, one calling" as churches coordinate humanitarian aid.
Guadeloupe: Bishop Philippe Guiougou expressed deep indignation following violent assaults within church courtyards, calling the violence a "wound tearing at our social fabric."
Venezuela Update: Caribbean bishops continue to monitor the aftermath of the U.S. military actions in Venezuela, maintaining their stance on the Caribbean as a "Zone of Peace" and urging CARICOM leaders to speak with a unified voice.
Upcoming Events to Watch
Feb 2026: Scheduled regional meeting for the Caribbean Conference of Churches (CCC) to address the Venezuela humanitarian crisis and refugee support.
Feb 27–28: Major regional events for the Church of God of Prophecy (COGOP) across the Southern Caribbean missions.
May 20-23: RCCG Caribbean Region Conference (English & Dutch) in Portsmouth, Dominica.
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This video captures the recent ordination of Reverend Nicholas Chambers, highlighting the ongoing growth and formalizing of local leadership within the South Caribbean Methodist 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: