Belize Factbook

Missions efforts in Belize have been blessed with many conversions and sustained growth. However, significant challenges still face the church. Pray for the believers in this land that they may press on and grow in their faith.

Belize is part of the Yucatan peninsula along the Caribbean coast. It shares borders with Mexico and Guatemala. The climate is tropical and many parts of the country are low-lying marshland. Its unique environment has made it a popular tourist destination.

The population of Belize is approximately 275,000. The two largest people groups are Mestizo and Afro-Caribbean. The remainder is a mixture of several ethnic groups including native Indians.

The economy is relatively prosperous for this region despite a lack in infrastructure. Tourism has grown to become the number one source of income. Exports of bananas and sugar are also significant sources. Unemployment stands around 9%. While nearby Honduras was devastated by Hurricane Mitch in 1998, Belize appears to have been mostly spared from severe damage.

Belize gained independence from Britain in 1981 and operates as a parliamentary democracy. Belize has retained ties with Britain, and the British monarch is still the official head of state. British forces help protect Belize from its neighbors. Belize allows freedom of religion.

Over 90% of the people are classified as Christian. The Roman Catholic Church is the largest group with over 50%. The Lord has blessed years of evangelical missions work with many conversions. Evangelicals represent nearly 15% of the population, and their numbers continue to grow rapidly.

Still, there is much to pray for beyond continued growth. Many Christians are nominal and still follow occult practices. The barriers between denominations are significant and cooperation among missions groups is minimal. Marginal groups such as the Jehovah's Witnesses are fewer in number but are growing rapidly. Pray that the Lord would continue to bring many more to Himself and receive honor to His name among these believers.

Copyright 2006 by Brad Garrison

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