Bahamian in United States

Introduction / History

The official language of The Bahamas is English, specifically Bahamian English, which includes a distinct dialect shaped by African, British, and Caribbean influences. Many Bahamians also speak Bahamian Creole, a vernacular language that emerged from the blending of African languages with English during the colonial era.
Historically, the islands were first inhabited by the Lucayan people, an Arawakan-speaking group, around 500–800 AD. European contact began with Christopher Columbus in 1492. The British colonized the islands in the 17th century, and enslaved Africans were brought to work on plantations. Their descendants now make up about the vast majority of the population of the Bahamas. The Bahamas gained independence from the United Kingdom on July 10, 1973, and remains a member of the Commonwealth. Some have migrated to Canada and the United States for higher paying jobs.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Bahamians enjoy a vibrant island lifestyle rooted in community, family, and cultural expression. Most live in urban centers in the U.S, though many maintain strong ties to the "Family Islands". The culture is relaxed, with "island time" reflecting a slower pace of life.
Festivals such as Junkanoo, celebrated on Boxing Day and New Year's Day, showcase Bahamian music, dance, and elaborate costumes. Bahamian cuisine features seafood, tropical fruits, and dishes like conch salad and johnnycakes.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Bahamas is predominantly Christian, with Protestant denominations making up the majority. Baptists, Anglicans, Catholics, and Pentecostals are the largest groups. Religious life is active, and many Bahamians attend services regularly.
Traditional African spiritual practices such as Obeah—a form of folk magic—are still discreetly practiced, especially in the Family Islands. These practices are often blended with Christian beliefs.

What Are Their Needs?

Bahamians need spiritual renewal in areas where Christianity is nominal or mixed with folk beliefs.
They face challenges including food insecurity, housing vulnerability due to hurricanes, and economic dependence on tourism, which makes the labor market unstable during global crises.

Prayer Points

Pray for spiritual revival among Bahamian churches, that believers would grow in biblical understanding and live out their faith boldly.
Pray for healing and restoration in communities affected by poverty, storms, and social fragmentation.
Pray for unity among believers, and for the Bahamian church to be a sending force for missions in the Caribbean and beyond.
Pray for wisdom and integrity among Bahamian leaders in government, education, and the church.

Text Source:   Joshua Project