In a recent letter published on Antigua News Room, a concerned believer expressed deep concerns about the church ‘losing its way,’ the lack of accountability within its ranks, and the growing hesitation to trust the institution due to emerging accounts of misconduct. Responding to these issues, a young pastor has offered a balanced perspective, addressing the complexities of sin, justice, and restoration within the church. The pastor emphasized that regardless of an individual’s station or occupation, any crime committed must be met with justice. Citing Romans 13, he highlighted that God has entrusted civil punishment to the state, and church leaders are not exempt from accountability. While acknowledging the grace, forgiveness, and restoration offered by God, the pastor stressed that these divine principles do not bypass the need for due process under the law. He clarified that if a criminal offense has occurred, the law must take its course, irrespective of the individual involved. Addressing the broader issue of sin within the church, the pastor noted that misconduct has been a challenge since biblical times, as seen in the Corinthian church. He underscored that Scripture mandates proper church discipline, which may include removing leaders from their positions or excommunicating unrepentant believers. However, the ultimate goal of such discipline is restoration, though it does not always mean returning to the same ecclesiastical office. The pastor also urged believers not to lose hope in the church, encouraging them to seek out healthy congregations led by honest, biblical, and Godly leaders. He acknowledged that while some leaders have fallen short, many others have stood the test of time. For victims of abuse in church settings, the pastor expressed heartfelt sympathy and prayed for healing, emphasizing the importance of finding a supportive community of believers. In conclusion, he affirmed that while all sin is detrimental, not all churches are bad, and many leaders remain steadfast in their faith and integrity.
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Pringle Declines COP29 Invitation from Prime Minister Browne
Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle has turned down an invitation from Prime Minister Gaston Browne to be part of Antigua and Barbuda’s delegation to the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Brazil. The invitation was extended as a symbolic gesture to foster national unity on climate advocacy, a critical issue for small island states. However, government officials revealed during a recent discussion that Pringle declined the offer, prompting criticism from the Prime Minister. Browne emphasized that true leadership prioritizes national interests over partisan politics, citing his own participation in national events during his time in opposition as an example of such commitment. He described Pringle’s decision as a missed opportunity to present a united front on climate change, a matter of existential importance for vulnerable nations like Antigua and Barbuda. The country will join other Caribbean nations at COP29, where discussions will center on climate finance, loss and damage, and support for developing countries disproportionately affected by climate change.
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Behind the paint: The artists bringing Saint Lucia’s walls to life
Saint Lucia is undergoing a vibrant transformation as murals emerge across its communities, turning once plain and grey walls into canvases that narrate the island’s rich culture and history. This artistic shift, driven by a government-led initiative, aims to integrate art into public spaces, fostering national pride and cultural expression.
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Hillview whip Mucurapo 3-0, stay perfect in SSFL ‘Big 5’
Hillview College continued their impressive streak in the 2025 Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) First Citizens Boys’ ‘Big 5’ playoff, securing a commanding 3-0 victory over Mucurapo West Secondary on November 1. The match, held at Mucurapo West’s school grounds, showcased Hillview’s tactical prowess and determination to maintain their flawless record in the tournament. With two consecutive wins and a staggering +10 goal difference, Hillview is now a strong contender for promotion to the SSFL premier division in 2026. The game was a clash of contrasting styles, with Hillview’s patient passing game overpowering Mucurapo’s more direct approach. Mucurapo struggled to create significant chances, with their best opportunity coming in the fifth minute when striker Amenhotep Harper missed a shot over the bar. Hillview, on the other hand, dominated possession and tested Mucurapo’s goalkeeper Kenwyn Williams repeatedly. The breakthrough came in the 52nd minute when 15-year-old substitute Darnell Walcott volleyed in a close-range shot. Walcott’s stellar performance continued as he scored two more goals, sealing the victory and earning the Man of the Match award. Despite the loss, Mucurapo remains in second place, having won their opening game against Palo Seco Secondary. The tournament’s next matches are set for November 5, with Presentation College Chaguanas hosting Mucurapo and Palo Seco facing Speyside Secondary.
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Debate rages: anti-drug mission or move on Venezuela?
The recent US military strike on an alleged drug vessel in the southern Caribbean has ignited a heated debate over the true intentions behind the US military deployment in the region. On November 1, US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced the strike, which resulted in the deaths of three individuals described as ‘narco terrorists.’ The operation, conducted in international waters, is part of a series of 15 such strikes since early September, claiming a total of 64 lives. While the US maintains that these actions are aimed at curbing drug trafficking, local and international voices question whether this is a prelude to a larger military operation targeting Venezuela. Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has publicly supported the US stance, contrasting with other Caribbean leaders who advocate for the region to remain a ‘zone of peace.’ Critics, including former officials and international relations experts, argue that these strikes bypass due process and violate international law, raising concerns about extrajudicial killings and the potential for escalating tensions in the region. The situation has also sparked fears of a proxy war involving global powers, with Venezuela at the center of the geopolitical chessboard.
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Defence Minister confirms operation to verify migrants’ legal status
Defence Minister Wayne Sturge has confirmed an ongoing operation to assess the legal status of Venezuelan migrants in Trinidad and Tobago (TT). While Sturge refrained from divulging specifics, he acknowledged reports of police detaining individuals resembling Venezuelans and verifying their documentation. In a WhatsApp response, Sturge stated, “I am aware, I will address this question raised by you at the appropriate time,” adding that further details would be provided toward the end of the operation. This development follows Foreign Affairs Minister Sean Sobers’ recent reaffirmation of Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander’s pledge for “mass deportations” of Venezuelan nationals residing illegally in TT. Sobers emphasized that illegal entry into TT constitutes an offense, regardless of criminal activity. The government’s stance coincides with a significant reduction in work permits issued to Venezuelans. Former Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Amery Browne expressed concern over the potential for xenophobic undertones in the deportation process. Browne highlighted the previous administration’s collaborative efforts with Caracas to deport Venezuelan migrants involved in criminal activities, emphasizing a smooth and non-provocative approach. He cautioned against mimicking actions from other nations or adopting measures that could inflame tensions with Venezuela, TT’s nearest neighbor. The Opposition has pledged to monitor the government’s deportation strategies, ensuring adherence to constitutional responsibilities and international law.
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Holy Name, St Joseph’s Convent seize north zone volleyball bronze
The 2025 Secondary Schools Volleyball League (SSVL) north zone competition witnessed intense battles for bronze medals on October 30 at Aranguez North Secondary. Holy Name Convent Port of Spain and St Joseph’s Convent Port of Spain (SJCPoS) were among the standout performers, securing podium finishes across multiple divisions. In the Under-17 category, SJCPoS claimed bronze with a dominant performance, defeating Holy Name in straight sets (25-11, 25-12). However, Holy Name’s Under-15 team showcased resilience, overcoming Maple Leaf International School in a thrilling three-set match. After losing the first set 25-17, Holy Name bounced back to win the next two sets 26-15 and 15-11, securing the bronze medal. In the open division, Maple Leaf avenged their younger team’s loss by defeating Holy Name in straight sets (25-20, 25-22). The north zone finals, initially scheduled for October 31, were postponed due to widespread hysteria as parents withdrew their children from school early. This followed an order for military personnel to report to their bases by 6 pm, leading to early closures of schools and businesses in the capital. The rescheduled finals will see the International School of Port of Spain (ISPS) face SJCPoS in both the Under-15 and open divisions, while ISPS will compete against Maple Leaf in the Under-17 final.
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DOMA head: Nothing good comes from panic
Gregory Aboud, President of the Downtown Owners and Merchants Association (DOMA), emphasized the importance of maintaining composure in the face of heightened military alertness and public speculation. In a phone interview on November 2, Aboud reflected on the recent order for all military personnel to report to their bases on October 31, stating that the mobilization of police and military forces did not directly disrupt Port of Spain. Instead, he attributed the unrest to the public’s reaction to the situation. Aboud dismissed the notion of impending danger, pointing out that the atmosphere was dominated by threats and counter-threats between the US and Venezuela, along with increased military presence. He questioned the logic behind fears that Venezuela might retaliate against Trinidad and Tobago (TT) if the US took military action, calling such assumptions unrealistic. Aboud stressed the need for rationality and calm, highlighting TT’s longstanding issues with porous borders that facilitate the illegal trade of drugs and firearms. He expressed concern over the spread of inaccurate stories and rumors, which have damaged reputations and deterred good citizens from participating in national development. Aboud voiced support for robust national defense measures to secure TT’s borders and curb the societal corruption fueled by illicit activities. He acknowledged the government’s stance on American intervention in the region, viewing it as a potential means to disrupt the damaging illegal trade that has plagued TT for decades. Aboud concluded by advocating for greater transparency and information sharing, where possible, to alleviate public panic and foster a more informed society.
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Ace spinner Gudakesh Motie dropped from T20 squad for ‘dip in form’
Guyanese left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie has been excluded from the West Indies’ 15-man squad for the upcoming five-match T20 series against New Zealand, scheduled from November 5-12. The decision, announced by Cricket West Indies (CWI) on November 2, stems from Motie’s recent dip in form, attributed to technical issues with his bowling action. Despite this setback, the 30-year-old spinner remains a key part of West Indies’ long-term plans, particularly with the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka on the horizon. Motie will now collaborate with specialists from the Royal Sports Group, owners of the South African franchise Paarl Royals, as he prepares to compete in the SA20 tournament starting December 26. CWI emphasized that this move is crucial for Motie to regain his peak performance. Since his T20 debut in 2021, Motie has played 85 matches across formats, taking 36 T20 wickets at an economy of 7.96. His recent performances, including a solitary over in the T20 series against Bangladesh, where he conceded 11 runs, have been underwhelming. In the preceding ODI series against Bangladesh, Motie managed four wickets at an economy of 5.79, but the West Indies lost the series 2-1. The West Indies squad will also miss injured left-arm pacers Jediah Blades and Ramon Simmonds, while Guyanese quick Shamar Joseph remains sidelined. The team, led by wicket-keeper/batsman Shai Hope, includes notable names like Roston Chase, Jason Holder, and Rovman Powell. Trinidadian spinners Akeal Hosein and Khary Pierre are expected to lead the spin-bowling department in Motie’s absence, with allrounders Matthew Forde and Shamar Springer bolstering the pace attack. Romario Shepherd, who recently won the Player of the Series award in the T20 sweep over Bangladesh, will spearhead the pace lineup. The West Indies camp will also benefit from the addition of clinical psychologist Krisnan Hurdle, who joins as a mental skills and performance coach. CWI director of cricket Miles Bascombe highlighted the importance of mental strength in elite cricket, stating that Hurdle’s appointment reflects the board’s commitment to developing well-rounded players. The T20 series against New Zealand begins on November 5 at Eden Park in Auckland, with matches also scheduled in Nelson and Dunedin.
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Deal with fireworksterror now
The Fireworks Use Sufferers (FUS) organization has extended its heartfelt condolences to the family of a three-day-old infant who tragically passed away the morning after Divali celebrations. Reports indicate that the family was subjected to relentless noise from fireworks throughout the night, despite their desperate pleas for the disturbances to cease. While the exact cause of the infant’s death remains uncertain—potentially linked to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) or the stress induced by the fireworks—the incident has sparked widespread outrage. Critics argue that the government’s decision to ban fireworks for Independence Day while permitting them for Divali reflects a reckless and biased approach. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has been urged to address the issue, particularly given the adverse effects of fireworks on vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and animals. FUS President Nalini Dial has called for immediate government action, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations, including permits for silent fireworks and enforcement against lawbreakers. The organization also criticized the police for their lack of responsiveness and the government’s apparent favoritism toward fireworks importers. With Old Year’s Night approaching, activists are demanding public protests or official statements from the Prime Minister and Attorney General to outline concrete measures to prevent further harm.