New Anglican Archbishop Elected

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The Anglican community across the Caribbean has a new leader. After hours of deliberation during the 42nd Triennial Provincial Synod in Nassau, delegates elected the Most Reverend Philip Silvan Wright of Belize as the next Archbishop, Primate and Metropolitan of the Church in the Province of the West Indies. It is the first time in 24 years that The Bahamas has hosted the gathering.

The election took place following a closed session of the House of Bishops, where two nominees were put forward. Bishop Wright, who has served as Bishop of Belize for nearly two decades, emerged as the delegates’ choice to lead one of the oldest and most influential religious institutions in the region.

Speaking shortly after his election, Archbishop Wright said the moment was both humbling and overwhelming, noting the trust placed in him by clergy, laity and youth representatives across the province.

Wright attended seminary at Codrington College and earned a bachelor’s degree in theology from the University of the West Indies. He was ordained at the historic Cathedral Church of St. John the Baptist in Belize City and later completed a master’s degree in Theology in Mission Studies at the University of Birmingham. His service includes years of pastoral work in several Belize districts, including St. John’s Cathedral.

As he steps into the role of Archbishop, Wright says one of his top priorities will be strengthening youth involvement in the life of the church. He also underscored the need for the Anglican voice to remain active on regional issues, from social concerns to policy decisions.

When asked about the church’s stance on gaming operators entering politics, he pointed to the church’s long-standing position on protecting families, noting that gambling can challenge family stability and should be approached with caution.

The new Archbishop also addressed the ongoing humanitarian struggles across the region, as Jamaica, Haiti, Cuba and other territories continue to recover from the devastation of Hurricane Melissa. He said Anglican churches have already begun collecting donations and mobilizing support to assist affected communities.

Archbishop Wright now leads the province at a time of significant social, economic and spiritual challenges, and says he is committed to guiding the Anglican community with unity, compassion and service at the forefront.