This is your Caribbean Christian news roundup for the week of January 16–23, 2026. This edition is marked as Volume 1: Issue 3.
Caribbean Church Update
Vol. 1 | Issue 3
A weekly roundup of significant happenings, moves, and missions across the Caribbean’s Christian and ecumenical landscape.
Headline: Caribbean Bishops Question Legality of Venezuela Intervention
The Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC) has issued a sharp follow-up statement this week regarding the ongoing volatility in the Southern Caribbean. Following the January 3rd detention of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces, the bishops have called for "competent international authorities" to investigate the legality of the use of force within a sovereign nation.
Archbishop Jason Gordon (AEC President) warned that these developments risk deepening a "spiral of fear and confrontation" that directly affects the dignity and safety of Caribbean people. The bishops reiterated their call for the United Nations to lead international mediation and for the region to remain a "Zone of Peace."
Official Statement: AEC Statement on Regional Instability (AECBishops.org)
Ecumenical & Denominational Moves
AEC Synodal Formation in the Windward Islands
On Saturday, January 17, the AEC held a major Synodal Formation Session led by Fr. Peter McIsaac. This session brought together diocesan teams from across the region to further the "Synodal path of renewal." Simultaneously, the Diocesan Clergy of the Province of Castries (St. Lucia, Grenada, St. Vincent) gathered for their 42nd Annual Conference in Kingstown to discuss parish leadership in a shifting geopolitical climate.
Ecumenical Launch of the 2026 Law Year
In a show of church-state collaboration, the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) officially opened its 2026 Law Year this week with church services across the OECS member states. The primary regional service was held at Fatima Catholic Church in Dominica, where clergy and judicial officers gathered under the theme: "Justice that Endures."
Regional Mission & Church Growth
COGOP: 21 Days of Prayer & Mission
The Church of God of Prophecy (COGOP) is currently in the midst of its "21 Days of Prayer," uniting its global family—including its massive Caribbean membership—around the call to be "On Mission." Local fellowships in Kingston, Jamaica, and beyond are utilizing the new "Membership Matters" course to integrate new converts from recent year-end crusades.
Methodist Response to Regional Violence
Following a series of violent incidents involving federal operations in the Americas, Methodist bishops across the region, including leadership in the MCCA, are issuing calls for congregations to be "places of refuge." The message focuses on the baptismal vow to "resist evil, injustice, and oppression" through peaceful neighborhood solidarity.
Quick Hits & Significant Dates
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (Jan 18–25): Services are peaking this week across the islands. This year’s resource, prepared by the Armenian Apostolic Church, is being adapted by local Caribbean councils to emphasize "shared Christian heritage" in the face of modern division.
Dominica: The Catholic community in Roseau has seen a surge in youth-led "Synodal Teams," following the AEC’s focus on including younger voices in church governance.
Guyana: Local pastors are coordinating with regional bodies to monitor the impact of naval assets and airspace restrictions on maritime missionary travel between the Guianas and the OECS.
Upcoming Events to Watch
Jan 24–25: Regional collection for the Church in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Feb 21: "Amplify" Heartland Region event (linked to wider COGOP mission training).
March 17: Next scheduled court appearance for the detained Venezuelan leadership, a date Caribbean church observers are monitoring for further regional impact.
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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: