By: La Shawna Griffith
In Barbados, the saying “God is a Bajan” is more than just a phrase it is a heartfelt expression of the island’s deep spiritual roots. Nowhere is this more evident than in the parish of St. John, where faith and history intertwine amidst rolling hills and Atlantic views.
St. John is home to a remarkable concentration of churches, each with its own story. Among them are St. John’s Parish Church, St. Margaret’s Anglican Church, St. Mark’s Anglican Church, Mount Tabor Moravian Church, Holy Cross Anglican Church and Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church.
At the heart of this spiritual landscape stands Codrington College, the oldest Anglican theological college in the Western Hemisphere. Set amidst serene gardens and overlooking the sea, Codrington has been a center for theological education and reflection for centuries. Nearby, St. John’s Parish Church, perched on Hackleton’s Cliff, offers breathtaking views and a rich history dating back to the 17th century.
The abundance of churches in St. John reflects the community’s enduring faith and the island’s historical commitment to spiritual life. Whether attending a service, exploring historical sites, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings, visitors and locals alike can feel the profound sense of reverence that permeates the parish. In St. John, the saying “God is a Bajan” resonates deeply, embodying the spiritual heartbeat of Barbados.