Archdiocese hosts meeting of Latin American, Caribbean Churches

The Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC), with the Archdiocese of Port of Spain serving as local host, is preparing to welcome delegates from across the region as it hosts the CELAM Caribbean Regional Meeting from June 8–12 at the Seminary of St John Vianney, Mt St Benedict.

The gathering will bring together clergy, Religious, laity and pastoral representatives from across the Caribbean for what organisers describe as “a time of prayer, reflection, dialogue, and collaboration,” according to a release from AEC Communications.

Representatives from the Episcopal Conferences of Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Puerto Rico, and the member territories of the AEC are expected to participate.

The meeting forms part of the Latin American and Caribbean Episcopal Council’s (CELAM) “ongoing commitment to strengthening communion among the Churches of Latin America and the Caribbean and promoting a more collaborative approach to evangelisation throughout the region.”

Throughout the five-day meeting, participants will engage in discussions addressing the social, cultural, economic, environmental, and pastoral realities facing Caribbean societies.

The statement said that, “Through prayerful discernment and synodal dialogue, delegates will reflect on the opportunities and challenges confronting the Church and identify ways to work together more effectively in responding to the needs of the people of the region.”

The programme will include presentations from experienced regional contributors, offering insights into both the realities of Caribbean life and the evolving mission of the Church.

Delegates will also participate in theological and pastoral reflections focused on synodality, evangelisation, mercy, hope, and the shared call to walk together as the People of God.

A highlight of the meeting will be visits to “significant pastoral and social outreach initiatives in Trinidad and Tobago.” These experiences are intended to give participants firsthand exposure to the Church’s work in education, social development, community outreach, and faith formation. According to the statement, the visits are designed to “encourage the sharing of best practices and inspire greater cooperation among local Churches throughout the Caribbean.”

In addition to formal sessions, the gathering will offer opportunities for participants to build relationships, exchange experiences, and explore new avenues for regional collaboration.

Through plenary discussions, working groups, and strategic planning sessions, delegates will work to identify priorities and develop practical initiatives “that will help advance the Church’s mission across the Caribbean.”

As host of the meeting, the AEC has expressed its anticipation of the event, stating that it “looks forward to welcoming delegates to Trinidad and Tobago and facilitating a meaningful encounter that deepens communion, strengthens pastoral cooperation, and renews the Church’s commitment to proclaiming the Gospel throughout the Caribbean region.”