Caribbean Church Update: Justice and Identity
Vol. 1 | Issue 8
A weekly roundup of significant happenings, moves, and missions across the Caribbean’s Christian and ecumenical landscape.
Headline: Archbishop Philip Wright Champions Reparative Justice in London
The Most Rev. Philip Wright, Archbishop of the Church in the Province of the West Indies (CPWI), made a powerful impact on the global stage this week. Participating in the "Breaking the Chains of Injustice" international consultation in London, Archbishop Wright lauded the Church of England’s Project Spire—a £100 million fund aimed at addressing the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade.
Archbishop Wright emphasized that the Anglican Church stands at a "moral crossroads," urging that words of apology must not become "empty rhetoric." He called for active investment in schools and hospitals in the Caribbean to help communities step out of the long shadow of enslavement.
Ecumenical & Denominational Moves
Bishops of the Americas Reaffirm Unity in Tampa
Leaders from the Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC) joined officers from the Latin American (CELAM), Canadian, and U.S. Bishops' Conferences for a biennial gathering in Tampa, Florida (Feb 15–17). In a joint statement issued on February 19, the bishops reaffirmed that "no migrant is a stranger to the Church." They committed to a "synodal way" of walking together to protect the vulnerable and combat human trafficking across borders.
Archbishop Gordon Condemns Carnival "Marketing Stunt"
In Trinidad and Tobago, Archbishop Charles Jason Gordon sparked a national conversation this week by condemning a promotional stunt by a major Carnival mas band. The Archbishop described the inclusion of adult items in costume bags as an "inappropriate threat" to the moral fiber of young people, using the hashtag #Tribegonetoofar to signal a "silent national emergency" regarding youth values.
Regional Mission & Church Growth
Methodist "Men's Month" in the BVI
The Methodist Church in the Caribbean and the Americas (MCCA) Leeward Islands District is currently celebrating "Men's Month." In the British Virgin Islands, the Road Town congregation has been leading the charge with their "Men's Minute" series, focusing on the theme: Light in the World; Anchored in Christ.
Bible Engagement Reaches Record Levels
New data released this week shows that digital Bible engagement across the Caribbean and Latin America has surged by 20% in the first quarter of 2026. The YouVersion platform reported record usage in territories like the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, signaling a "spiritual hunger" for stability amidst contemporary regional challenges.
Quick Hits & Significant Dates
Provincial Sunday (Feb 8): Anglicans across the region recently celebrated their shared heritage, with a focus on being "one people" rather than isolated dioceses.
Dominica: The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court began its Law Year with a service at Fatima Catholic Church, emphasizing the role of faith in the regional justice system.
AI and the Church: Catholic leaders in St. Lucia recently hosted a session on "Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Learning," exploring how technology can be harnessed for Christian education.
Upcoming Events to Watch
Feb 25–26: IIC Caribbean Meeting in the BVI, discussing AI and digital governance—a key area for church-state dialogue.
March 2026: Regional councils will begin the transition to Lenten mission focuses (Ash Wednesday falls on Feb 18th this year).
April 27–May 3: AEC Bishops to travel to Rome for their ad limina visit to meet with Pope Leo XIV.
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This video provides a spiritual backdrop to the regional unity discussed in this week's newsletter, highlighting the communal faith that connects the diverse islands of 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: