Religious Beliefs In Antigua And Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda is an independent island nation located in the Americas. The two islands of Antigua and Barbuda and a number of other smaller islands comprise the nation. The country occupies a total area of 440 square km and hosts a population of 100,963 people.
Christianity is the dominant religion in Antigua and Barbuda. Christians account for 77% of the country’s population. Other religions practiced in the country include Islam, the Bahá'í Faith, Rastafari, etc.
The Dominant Religion In Antigua And Barbuda
Anglicans constitute the largest Christian group in the country. They represent about 17.6% of the population in these islands. Followers of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and Pentecostalism account for 12.4% and 12.2% of the population, respectively. Significant populations of other Christian groups like Mormons, Baptists, Roman Catholics, and others live in the country.
The Presence Of Islam In The Country
The country hosts a very small population of Muslims numbering about 200 and representing only about 0.3% of the total population. Most of the Muslims living here trace their ancestral origins to Syria and Lebanon. Two Muslim organizations are active in Antigua and Barbua that cater to the needs of the small Muslim community of the country. A proper mosque is still non-existent in the country.
Hinduism In The Country
About 0.4% of the country’s population practice Hinduism. This figure is represented by about 379 adherents. The 2011 Census results indicate that the Hindu population on these islands have increased by over 40% from 157 adherents in 2001. Most of the Hindus of the country are immigrants from India.
Other Religions Practiced In The Country
The country hosts a small population of Jews, about 30 individuals. There are about 1,500 Rastafarians and 50 Baha’is. The country also has a significant population who do not claim affiliation with any particular faith or are atheists.
Religious Freedom And Tolerance In The Country
The Constitution of the nation guarantees the freedom of religion to its citizens. This right of the people is generally respected by the government. No reports of discrimination on the basis of religion or societal abuses in the country have been documented by the government of the US.
