Press Release
National Family Week 2026 officially began on Sunday with a special church service at St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church, where government officials, faith leaders and community partners gathered in prayer, reaffirming their shared commitment to strengthening families across The Bahamas.
The service, led by Monsignor Simeon Roberts, included a special blessing over the nation’s families, asking for God’s continued guidance, protection and strength for households throughout The Bahamas.
Among those in attendance were the Minister of Social Services, the Hon. Barbara Cartwright; Permanent Secretary Phedra Rahming-Turnquest; Undersecretary Donnette Williamson; senior officials and staff of the Ministry of Social Services, the Department of Social Services and the Department of Gender and Family Affairs, which leads National Family Week, along with representatives of non-governmental organizations and community partners committed to strengthening families across the country.
Also attending were Marisa Mason-Smith, Chair of the Protection Against Violence Commission; Dr. Anthony Hamilton, Chair of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities; Janet McKenzie, The Bahamas’ Gender Expert to the Follow-up Mechanism to the Belém do Pará Convention (MESECVI); Rev. Roslyn Astwood, who leads family affairs for the Bahamas Christian Council; and other stakeholders supporting the National Family Week initiative.
A strong contingent of Royal Bahamas Police Force Recruit Trainees also attended the service, underscoring the national commitment to building stronger families and safer communities.
The service marked the official launch of the week’s activities, led by the Department of Gender and Family Affairs, which continues to champion healthy relationships, strong family values and community support while recognizing the family as the foundation of a strong and resilient Bahamas.
National Family Week continues on Thursday, July 30, with the Single and Divorced Forum, beginning at 12 noon in the Hearing Room at the Ministry of Social Services Headquarters on JFK Drive. The week’s observance culminates on Saturday, August 1, with the Family and Community Fun Day at R.M. Bailey Park from 10:00 a.m. to5:00 p.m., bringing families together for a day of celebration, fellowship and fun.
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