Protestant Expansion

Recent decades see explosive Protestant growth, particularly Pentecostal and Evangelical churches. These churches, often led by charismatic local pastors, attract those seeking direct spiritual experience and community support.

"Traditional Catholicism felt distant, formal," explains Pastor Marlene Théodore, who leads a 500-member congregation in Fort-de-France. "People want to feel the Spirit, to prophesy, to heal. Caribbean people always knew religion should transform, not just inform."

Protestant churches offer: - Services entirely in Creole - Emphasis on personal testimony - Faith healing familiar from folk traditions - Strong community support networks - Youth programs addressing contemporary issues

However, some Protestant churches' opposition to Carnival, Vodou, and even Catholic folk practices creates cultural tensions.

"They tell us our culture is demonic," laments artist José Clavot. "But how can drums be evil? How can honoring ancestors be wrong? This fundamentalism isn't Caribbean."