Dominican Republic
A vibrant country with colonial history embraces joyful celebrations that outshine the obstacles
The Dominican Republic is quintessentially Caribbean, and the most popular of the islands for tourists to enjoy palm-waving beaches, waterfalls, whale watching and more.
The country’s capital, Santo Domingo, also boasts the oldest European city, with an ornate cathedral as old as the 16th century and architecture marking La Ciudad Colonial‘s continual history ever since.
In the midst of the beautiful landscape, roughly a third of Dominicans live below the poverty line, or half of all Dominican children. Energy shortages are common.
But in spite of challenging economic conditions, Dominicans celebrate life through year-round fiestas patronales and vibrant music and dance. It hasn’t taken long for the rapid beats of merengue to spread from the Dominican’s shores to capture hearts around the world.
Your partnership with Missions Door extends social outreach, leadership development and church planting in the Dominican Republic.
Cultural Snapshots
Dominicans have a special passion for baseball. Many professional players go on to join the United States’ major leagues.
Faith Fact
Evangelical Protestantism and its emphasis on family values has become increasingly popular among low-income Dominicans, whose family structures are commonly unstable.
Country Profile
Population: 10 million
Major Religions: 95% Catholic
Languages: Spanish (official)
Literacy: 90%
Poverty: 34%