In a bid to tackle deepening inequality and social fragmentation, the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment has launched a major initiative partnering with faith-based organisations to strengthen national unity and inclusion.
The initiative was officially introduced at a landmark symposium hosted by the Ministry, where religious leaders from across Saint Lucia gathered to discuss their role in national development, community empowerment, and social justice.
Addressing the symposium, Minister for Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment Joachim Henry stressed the powerful role that religious institutions play in reaching individuals who may fall outside the traditional reach of government services.
“The pulpit is a powerful place,” he said. “The individuals the police cannot reach; you may reach from your pulpit. Children whom school principals may miss, or even parents who cannot provide certain guidance at home, are often reached through the pulpit. Your numbers are significant—our faith-based organisations are perhaps the largest and most impactful civil society group in Saint Lucia. I’ve reminded my Permanent Secretary and the staff . . . that advocacy is the most important work in social development. It’s not merely about the money we spend—it’s about what we say and how we inspire change and transformation.”
Key topics at the symposium included administrative and regulatory matters affecting religious institutions, particularly around policy compliance for establishing and operating places of worship. Participants also explored the expanding role of interfaith collaboration in national development.
Among those in attendance was Father Cetoute, a Roman Catholic priest who praised the growing unity among Christian denominations.
He said: “Having served as a Roman Catholic priest for the past 36 years, I recall a time when interaction with other denominations was minimal. But over the years, that has changed significantly. I now see increased collaboration and mutual respect, which I deeply value. I look forward to continued dialogue—not on doctrinal matters, but on issues where we share common ground and a shared responsibility.”
The ministry said its symposium reflects its commitment to fostering constructive partnerships with faith-based organisations as part of its broader mission to advance equity, inclusion, and social justice. it said that by combining resources, insights, and outreach capabilities, both sectors are better positioned to support the most vulnerable and underserved across Saint Lucia.
