A History of the Church in

Barbados

Overview

The island of Barbados has long been home to people from many different walks of life. The first Latter-day Saints on the island were foreign expatriates. Beginning in 1978, local Barbadians, including some who encountered the gospel overseas, joined the Church.

The earliest branch was established in Christ Church in 1979. Branches were subsequently organized in Black Rock in 1983 and Oistins in 1985. From 1984 to 1994, the headquarters of the West Indies Mission was located in Barbados. In 2002, the Christ Church Barbados District was organized.

For many years, significant local opposition to the Church existed, within both society and government. Full-time missionary work was often limited. As a result, local Latter-day Saints shouldered the burden of sharing the gospel and establishing a positive reputation for the Church. Latter-day Saints are regular contributors to community projects to fight drug abuse, restore the environment, help the poor, and respond to natural disasters.

In the multicultural society of Barbados, Latter-day Saints have worshipped Christ and shared the gospel, receiving God’s gift “unto all nations, of their own nation and tongue, to teach his word” (Alma 29:8).

Quick Facts

Official Name: Barbados

Capital: Bridgetown

Largest City: Bridgetown

Official Languages: English and Bajan Creole

Land Area: 430 km² (166 mi²)

Church Area: Caribbean

Missions: 1 (Bridgetown)

Congregations: 3