by Ministry of Equity

The Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment continues to advance its commitment to inclusive national development with the convening of a high-level consultation focused on the formation of a national Faith-Based Association.

The session, held recently at the Ministry’s Conference Room, brought together representatives from over ten religious denominations from across Saint Lucia, all unified in their desire to strengthen collaboration and community outreach efforts through a cohesive and representative body.

This consultation marks a pivotal step following the National Faith-Based Symposium held in April, where religious leaders collectively advocated for a broader, more inclusive association to work alongside existing faith bodies such as the Christian Council.

Highlighting the Ministry’s support for this initiative and reflecting on how this consultation builds on earlier recommendations and expands faith-based involvement in national development, Deputy Director for Social Transformation, Kendall Elva, notes, “The Ministry has decided to support the formation of a national association for all faith-based organizations in Saint Lucia, following key recommendations from the National Faith-Based Symposium held in April. Faith leaders at the symposium emphasized the need for a more inclusive body to strengthen advocacy, coordinate disaster response, and contribute to social development, which will really help us a great deal in bringing some solution to the societal problems that we are faced with.”

The meeting not only fostered administrative planning but also facilitated valuable connections that can have an immediate impact. One faith leader shared how the session opened unexpected doors for practical collaboration. Reverend Floyde Hilliman, Pastor of the Anse La Raye Pentecostal Church, shared his perspective on the power of such engagements. “A key outcome of the consultation was the collective agreement on establishing a unified association to amplify the voice of faith-based organizations in national policymaking. To advance this effort, a subcommittee was formed to draft the association’s constitution and guide its formal launch. In addition to administrative planning, the meeting fostered valuable connections among participants. Reverend Floyde Hilliman, Pastor of the Anse La Raye Pentecostal Church, emphasized how the session created immediate opportunities for practical collaboration and support.”

Beyond its structure, the emerging Faith-Based Association is expected to actively address social issues like crime, youth disengagement, and declining community values.

Ras Levi Paul Francis of the Nairbingi House Foundation of Rastafarianism, reinforced this vision, highlighting the vital role of faith-based groups in nation-building. “The importance of the committee is to help us remain focused on critical areas such as youth development and humanitarian outreach,” stated Ras Levi, representative of the Paul Francis Nairbingi House Foundation of Ras Afari. “We are working to redirect our young people, restore their sense of purpose, and foster a more positive and godly environment within our communities.”

The Ministry will convene a follow-up session to review the draft constitution and finalize the framework for the association’s operational launch. Once established, the association is expected to serve as a vital national partner in the Ministry’s ongoing mission to build community resilience and deliver inclusive social support across Saint Lucia.