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Religious Beliefs and Spirituality in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has an extensive reach in terms of religion. In fact, there is an affluent selection of religious groups in the country majority of which are affiliated on Christianity though the minority is also comprised of significant religious congregations. These depict the remarkable contributions of foreign beliefs intertwined with the indigenous culture.

The State maintains its promotion of religious freedom provided for in the Vincentian Constitution. Separation of Church and State is upheld unless Human Rights are violated so forced conversion is not likely to arise. However, the government is inclined to regulate religious affairs through cordial relationship with the Christian Council of Churches.

Christian religion dominates the nation which account for the 89% of religious believers. Distribution of this percentage consists of Anglican (19,400), Catholics (8,176), Independents (25,090), Orthodox (80), Pentecostals (13,483), and Protestants (55,793). In turn, these religious denominations are integrated in academic instruction intended for educational purposes alone.

Minority religious groups are namely Baha’i (1%), Hindu (3%), Muslims (2%), Spiritists (2%), and Others (1%). Among these, the Spiritual or Converted Baptist (Spiritists) is made remarkable by its native origin. This ethnic belief is a distinctive version resulting from the mix of African and Christian religion.

Traces of local traditions are still imminent though religious practices of foreign influence have been introduced. These include beliefs on evil supernatural beings such as ghosts, haggs, jumbies, diablesses, and rounces. There are but those believed as good spirits lingering around that provide the balance and protection. Dreams are also regarded to convey misfortunes so believers consider them as dreaded nightmares.