Archbishop Charles Jason Gordon has begun 2026 by condemning United States military action in the Caribbean, calling for unity among regional leaders, and warning that the poor would suffer most from any escalation of conflict.
In a statement issued in his capacity as president of the Antilles Episcopal Conference, Gordon expressed deep concern about the Caribbean Sea becoming what he described as a theatre for confrontation not of the region’s making. The statement was read by Kirk Jean Baptiste during the New Year’s service at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in San Fernando.
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The Antilles Episcopal Conference represents Roman Catholic dioceses and missions across the Caribbean region.
Archbishop Gordon cited reports of approximately thirty five airstrikes that have resulted in the deaths of more than one hundred people at sea, the seizure of an oil tanker, and the imposition of airspace restrictions as part of what he described as a military blockade of Venezuela. He said these actions have increased the risk to innocent lives and worsened the humanitarian crisis in the South American country.
He added that the military activity also places strain on maritime commerce, tourism, and the livelihoods of thousands of people who depend on safe and open seas.
While acknowledging the responsibility of states to address transnational crime and uphold international law, Gordon said the conference reaffirmed its position that militarization is not the path to lasting security. He warned that heightened military operations in the region deepen mistrust, disrupt economies, and place the most vulnerable at greater risk.
He said that war, or the threat of war, is always a defeat for humanity.
The archbishop said the Antilles Episcopal Conference stands in solidarity with the people of Venezuela at what he described as a critical moment in their nation’s history.
Guided by the testimony of Venezuelan bishops and consultations with regional church leaders, Gordon said there is an overwhelming desire among Venezuelans for democratic renewal and leadership that restores justice, peace, and the integrity of state institutions. He added that this quest deserves the attention, respect, and solidarity of the wider Caribbean community.
Gordon urged governments with influence in the Caribbean basin, including the United States, Venezuela, member states of the Caribbean Community, and other hemispheric partners, to choose dialogue over force, diplomacy over intimidation, and cooperation over unilateral action.
He expressed strong support for calls for an urgent meeting of Caribbean Community leaders to address divisive geopolitical disputes that are straining regional unity. He also appealed to Caribbean leaders to speak with one voice and to avoid publicly criticizing one another, warning that such actions deepen fragmentation at a time when unity is essential.
The Caribbean Community has been divided over the United States military presence since the buildup began in August. While the regional bloc has reiterated its position that the Caribbean should remain a Zone of Peace, Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar has rejected that stance and publicly supported the military action.
Trinidad and Tobago has also hosted the Twenty Second Marine Expeditionary Unit for joint military exercises, and a United States military radar installation has been established at the ANR Robinson International Airport in Tobago.
Archbishop Gordon called on Christians and the wider faithful to pray fervently for peace in the Caribbean Sea and for all those affected by the military activity. He specifically mentioned families mourning loved ones lost at sea, migrants fleeing hardship, workers in aviation, shipping, and tourism, and especially the poor, who he said will suffer most from instability and rising costs.
He said the bishops of the region remain committed to working with ecumenical partners, civic organizations, and regional leaders to safeguard human dignity and to ensure the Caribbean remains a space of hospitality, coexistence, and hope.
Gordon delivered the homily and led communion during the New Year’s service.
