In the foreword, WCC general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay notes that peoples of the Caribbean have forged an identity rooted in creativity, critique, and collaboration. “Even before attaining their independence in the 1960-90s, the island states in the region have been actively engaged on the world stage, influencing political decisions, impacting global economics, and challenging cultural norms,” he writes. “It is worth noting that the different peoples who
inhabited the region brought with them their own expressions of faith, thereby realizing a melting pot of religious practices.”
Pillay further notes that Caribbean Rising seeks to capture a hermeneutic of resistance.
“Both globally and locally, Caribbean theologians and church leaders have influenced the ecumenical movement profoundly,” he writes. “While this project was initiated under the Pilgrimage of Justice and Peace, its publication at this time serves as a bridge between the Pilgrimage of Justice and Peace and the ongoing Pilgrimage of Justice, Reconciliation, and Unity.”
Rev. Dr Mikie Roberts, coeditor of the volume and WCC programme executive for Spiritual Life and Faith and Order, reflected that the week of 20 October marks the period in the Ecumenical Prayer Cycle during which we are praying for the Caribbean region. “It is most fitting that this volume is being released at this time which also highlights the rich spiritual heritage of Caribbean peoples and their contribution to the ongoing Pilgrimage of Justice, Reconciliation, and Unity,” he said.
Rev. Nicole Ashwood, coeditor of the publication and WCC programme executive for Just Community of Women and Men, expressed happiness at the publication of the long-awaited volume.
“The creators of this volume have successfully captured the multifaceted ethos of the region, offering a tapestry that’s distinctly Caribbean,” she said. “It is our hope that readers will gain a broader perspective on the need for transformation through justice, reconciliation, and unity.”