Martinique
“Prior to the discovery of Martinique by Columbus in 1493, the area was inhabited by Arawak and Carib Indians. There was no real European interest in the island until French colonies were established in 1635. Though the British made brief attempts to occupy the island during the 18th and 19th centuries, it has remained under French control ever since (along with Guadeloupe). Slavery was abolished in 1848. In the late 19th century, tens of thousands of immigrant workers arrived from India to replace the slave workforce on the plantations. In 1946, both islands of the French Antilles were given the status of Overseas Departments. There was little political movement until 1974 when Martinique, along with Guadeloupe and French Guiana, were given regional status entailing some local political and economic autonomy. This was increased in 1982 and 1983.”
The Church of the Nazarene
In May 1976, Rev. and Mrs. Gene Smith left St. Lucia to begin furlough. Their intention was to complete their time in the States then begin a pioneer work in Martinique.
In late 1976, Rev. and Mrs. John Seaman were scheduled to go to Guadeloupe to begin a brand new district on the island. They were delayed due to the eruption of Mt. Soufriere which covers most of the southwestern end of the island. Due to this they could not find a suitable location to live. They soon found themselves on their way to Martinique well ahead of the Smiths. The Smiths arrived in Martinique in September of 1977, having already taken French courses. The Seamans continued to learn the French language.
In August of 1979, a suitable property was located and purchased. With the help of a Work and Witness team from Kansas the existing building was adapted to hold worship services. In 1981, this church was organized as the Bellevue Church.
In 1981, George Carole enrolled as the first Martinican at CNTC. Yet at CNTC the classes are all in English. This prompted the need for specifically French pastoral training. This need was met with the arrival of Rev. Terry and Kathy Ketchum. In short time the Ketchums had 10 students enrolled in the Bible institute and 10 others had participated in the program. Also during this time three other students enrolled in CNTC.
In 1982, the Godissard Church was organized. In 1983, the French Antilles District was officially organized. A church was organized at Morne Vente in September 1984. This was the third church lead by a local pastor, a remarkable feat for so young a district.
Sources:
Parker, J. Fred. Mission to the World: A History of Missions in the Church of the Nazarene through 1985. Nazarene Publishing House, Kansas City, MO, 1988.
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