Barbados Bridgetown Mission

CULTURAL SUMMARY

The culture of Barbados is a rich blend of African, British, and Caribbean influences. The local cuisine features dishes such as cou-cou and flying fish and pudding and souse, highlighting the island's culinary diversity. Traditional music and dance forms like tuk bands and Crop Over are integral to cultural events. Various festivals and celebrations throughout the year reflect the cultural and historical influences that shape this vibrant part of Barbados.

TOPOGRAPHY

The region's topography includes gentle hills and coral limestone formations. Notable natural features include the Carlisle Bay and the rugged east coast with its dramatic cliffs and rolling waves.

CLIMATE

The climate is tropical with average temperatures ranging from 75°F (24°C) to 85°F (29°C). Rain is more likely during the wet season from June to November, while snow is virtually nonexistent.

LANGUAGES

The two most common languages spoken in the area are English and Bajan Creole.

RELIGIONS

The three largest religious denominations in the area are Anglicanism, Methodism, and Roman Catholicism.

INDUSTRIES

Agriculture: The agriculture industry is prominent with key products like sugarcane, vegetables, and cotton. Companies like Syrup and Spice excel in the local market.

Manufacturing: The manufacturing sector includes rum production and electronics. Mount Gay Rum is a renowned employer in this market.

Financial Services: The financial services industry is significant, with major employers such as RBC Royal Bank excelling in banking and financial management.

LOCAL EVENTS

Prominent local celebrations include the Crop Over Festival, the Barbados Polo Season, and the Barbados Food and Rum Festival, each showcasing unique cultural traditions.

TOURISM

Popular tourist attractions include the St. Nicholas Abbey, the Harrison's Cave, and the Welchman Hall Gully.

RECREATION

Popular recreational activities include beach sports at Brownes Beach and hiking in the Farley Hill National Park.

MISSION HISTORY

Leaders of the Church have made several visits to Barbados since 1950, but it was 1978 before the first baptism of a Church member there took place. Greg Young, a young convert from Scotland, shared his new found faith with friends John and June Naime and Norman and Gema Naime. The Naimes were baptized on 16 April 1978.

In 1979 the Puerto Rico San Juan Mission was formed. It included Barbados and other islands of the Caribbean. Barbados was officially opened for missionary work in September 1979. The Christ Church Branch (a small congregation) was organized 20 October 1979.

When the West Indies Mission was opened in 1983, it was headquartered in Barbados. In 1994, headquarters of the West Indies Mission were transferred from Barbados to Trinidad.

The Barbados Bridgetown Mission was created July 1, 2015, from the Dominican Republic Santo Domingo East Mission and the West Indies Mission.

MISSION GROUPS

These groups are a great way to connect with other families who have missionaries in the same area, reconnect with other missionaries you served with in the past or simply learn more about the mission. Robust membership activity can make these groups truly amazing resources!

West Indies Mission (LDS) Facebook Group

West Indies / Barbados Bridgetown / Trinidad Port of Spain (LDS) Group

West Indies Mission Robison 2006-09 Group

Barbados Bridgetown Mission Group

“Sunshine in Our Souls” West Indies Group

West Indies RMs 2012-15 Daniel S. Mehr Group

West Indies Mission Moms (LDS) Group

Mission West Indies 1984-1988 Facebook Group

West Indies- President Mason, Van Noy Group

European RM’s West Indies and Suriname Group

West Indies Mission Provo/SLC Area RMs Group