Bahamas

From pirate lore to church tradition, tourists and locals experience a colorful life on 700 tropical islands

The array of 700 islands attracted pirates to the Bahamas in the 17th and 18th centuries. To this day the remains of shipwrecks still entice divers.

Known to tourists as a destination for tropical luxury, the Bahamas is also one of the prosperous countries in the Caribbean. Tourism and offshore banking drive its economy.

More than 80% of Bahamians live in urban settings, especially on the main island around the country’s capital, Nassau. Churches play an active role in community life.

Traditional Bahamian music, called goombay or “rake and scrape,” blends African and European styles using modern instruments and traditional saws, maracas, cowbells and goatskin drums.

Your participation with Missions Door strengthens churches in the Bahamas through youth ministry, leadership development, social outreach and economic development.

Cultural Snapshot

Bahamians still use indigenous plants for medicinal purposes, following traditions brought by African slaves to the islands more than 200 years ago.

Faith Fact

Compared to other nations worldwide, the Bahamas are alleged to have one of the highest numbers of churches per capita.

Country Profile

Population: 382,000

Major Religions: 70% Protestant, 13% Catholic

Languages: English

Literacy: 98%

Poverty: 9%