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Caribbean & Atlantic Islands

 Bishop Brice Thompson

This Region which extends from the Bahamas in the North to Guyana and Surinam in the South is indeed one of the most beautiful areas on planet Earth. It is a diversity of peoples and languages. All Caribbean people, whether they live in the North or South, are descendants of transplanted peoples.

The climate in the Caribbean is Marine Tropical, with significant variations based on proximity to land masses and local altitude. Apart from seasonal hurricanes and tropical storms, the weather condition is generally good. Occasionally, cold fronts pass through the area from North America.

Otherwise, normal temperatures prevail. Because of the fair weather condition, tourism is a thriving industry. Of course, there are other important industries in some of the major Islands, such as bauxite, oil, agriculture and fisheries, and banking. The most extensive links between the Islands are by air; either through scheduled flights on the regional and international carriers, or by chartered airplanes. Depending where you are traveling from, it can be very expensive. The Great Divide which is created by great expanse of Seas and Oceans puts the Islands geographically, far apart.

The Church began its mission of sharing the gospel in the Bahamas in 1911. The challenge still remains great for those who labor in this area. The various languages and cultures (though basically the same), oftentimes make it difficult to evangelize effectively. However, with God all things are possible. We move forward with the Great Commission to make disciples throughout the Region.

Presently, there are over 60,000 members in the area. The work is overseen by eight Regional and National Overseers. The Office of the General Presbyter is located in Nassau, Bahamas. From that location the General Oversight of the work takes place. It entails administration, visionary directions, and ministerial processing. An Area Leadership Conference is held every two years. The Conference is moderated and conducted by the General Presbyter.

Over the years the Caribbean has produced many great and outstanding leaders. Persons such as Stanley Ferguson, Alvin S. Moss, R. C. Smith, Vital Herne, Lesmon Graham, Rufus R. Rogers, Arthur C. Moss, Adrian L. Varlack and many others are well known throughout the Church world. Because of these leaders, many young men and women are inspired to follow in their footsteps. Throughout the Caribbean, emphasis is placed on training. It is visualized that proper training ensures future leadership and growth in the work.