Corn Islands Lent Season Traditions and Beliefs

For many Christians, Lent is a time of reflection and spiritual preparation for Easter, when they remember the resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified on Good Friday at the end of the Lenten season, as described in the Gospels of the Bible.

The Corn Islands, being a predominantly Christian community, observe this sacred season, particularly within denominations that have historically commemorated these dates worldwide, such as Catholics, Episcopalians, Baptists, and Moravians. Over time, these religious observances have blended with local tales, beliefs, and customs, creating a unique cultural expression of Lent that reflects both Christian traditions and the rich heritage of Caribbean and African diaspora influences.

During this season, several traditions continue to this day. At the beginning of Lent, many families abstain from eating red meat, such as beef or pork, and instead consume fish and other seafood. Some households prepare saltfish, stewed fish, or fried fish, though fried dishes are generally less common among older generations. These meals are typically accompanied by local “bread kinds” such as boiled breadfruit, green banana, plantain, or cassava. Other dishes include rice with dried shrimp cooked in coconut milk.

Some families also maintain the tradition of eating Johnny cake or bun during this period.

Other culinary customs include the preparation of fruit stews, such as stewed cocoplum, stewed papaya, or stewed jimbilin. Families often prepare tamarind juice, lemonade, or orange juice, as these fruits are abundant at this time of year. These beverages are especially enjoyed during lunchtime.

Beyond food traditions, some families observe fasting, while others abstain from going to the beach or bathing in the sea during this sacred period.

In addition to these practices, there are longstanding local beliefs, particularly as Holy Week approaches. One common belief says that if someone is found bathing in the sea at noon on Good Friday, they may be turned into a fish or a mermaid. Others associate this period with spirits wandering in the evening or night, or with the appearance of a specific type of tree said to “bleed,” symbolising the blood of Christ.

Over the years, some of these traditions have remained stronger than others among islanders. Together, they reflect a season that represents spiritual preparation and renewal, while also illustrating the beautiful blending of religious devotion and cultural heritage in the Corn Islands.